INSIDE: Discover the 5 pilates benefits that will help you to get the results you are looking for while enjoying an added boost to your well-being as well.
Now, more than ever, we need to have routines and activities in our lives that can improve our wellness and boost our mood.
Exercise is certainly one of the best ways to do that, and the fact that it can be done in the comfort of your own home and made to work around your schedule makes it even better.
One of my favorite activities to integrate into my exercise regime is pilates, and before I tell you why, let me define it for you in case you are new to it.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a fantastic way to boost your fitness levels, yet it is a low-impact exercise that is designed to improve flexibility, posture, and strengthen muscles.
Most pilates moves target the core. The movements are performed slowly and combined with breath control. Pilates shares some similarities with yoga (another one of my favorite exercises).
There are many benefits of Pilates, so let’s dive in to those now…
5 Pilates Benefits You Won’t Want to Miss
In an effort to keep this article concise, I’ve narrowed it down to 5 pilates benefits, although I’m sure you’ll find there are many more once you practice it yourself.
1) It’s a Full Body Workout
Pilates provides you with a well-rounded workout, targeting every area of the body. It’s the perfect exercise for those who don’t have time to fit in lots of different classes throughout the week.
Simply book yourself into a Pilates class (or do it at home), and your whole body will be thanking you! One of the best things about Pilates is that it’s actually good fun, allowing you to enjoy your exercise regime.
2) It Improves Core Strength
Pilates targets your core, allowing you to build up strength over time. When we build core strength, we are less likely to obtain injuries from daily activities.
Strength is valuable to improve your performance at the gym, or up your game in a sports class. To keep your body healthy and supple as you age, Pilates is the perfect workout.
3) It Improves Flexibility
Flexibility is another thing that declines as we age, making us more prone to injuries. You may not go into a Pilates class feeling that flexible, but after a couple months, you’ll notice a significant difference.
Plus, when we practice deep stretches, it’s not just beneficial for the body, but also for the mind.
4) It’s Perfect for Posture
Has your desk job left your posture needing a little work? Do you suffer from aches and pains?
It’s so easy to get into bad habits with your posture, but pilates can help you to undo some of the damage.
One of the best benefits of pilates is that you’ll develop good alignment, which will also help you in other forms of exercise.
5) It Allows You to Practice Mindfulness
Pilates classes use breathing exercises to move deeper into each position. This kind of control and focus can help you to practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness is similar to meditation in that it is all about moving with attention, focusing on the present moment, and developing a positive mindset. When we do that, it eases our stress, improves our mood, and actually serves as a mind, body, spirit cleanse.
To continue your mindfulness journey outside the classes, try using the app, Calm.
Preparing for Pilates
Before you attend a pilates class, whether at home or in the gym, you’ll need a decent pair of sports leggings.
Look for leggings that offer compression and that are made with high-quality material (that’s not see-through)! It’s also helpful to choose sweat-wicking clothes for when you’re working out.
For a beautiful range of activewear, check out Curves N Combatboots.
Final Thoughts About Pilates Benefits
As you can see, high impact exercises are not necessary to be healthy. I personally very rarely do a full pilates class, but what I do do is incorporate pilates movements into my exercise regime. I like to mix it up!
But, the good news is that you can find tons of free pilates classes on YouTube!