Any time you take a new fitness class, it can be a little intimidating. But, for some reason, Pilates classes are extra daunting. If you’ve wanted to try Pilates classes, however, something niggling in the back of your mind has been putting you off, now’s your time to register. Pilates offers loads of benefits to your body. This is no matter what your fitness background is. During a class such as this, you will improve your posture. Also, your focus on bodily alignment will improve. You’ll also get one heck of a core workout.
Whether you’re on the mat or on a machine such as the Cadillac or the reformer, you can get the same advantages.
A 2016 study found that eight weeks of Pilates classes increased abdominal endurance, flexibility, and balance. Plus, Pilates has seen a resurgence in popularity.
The practice of Pilates is super demanding. However, it’s not the kind of workout that always leaves you breathless and works up a sweat. It’s all about consistency and breathing. But you’ll unquestionably feel it in your muscles through each exercise.
Topics Covered
Areas It Targets
Pilates’ primary focus is on your core powerhouse. However, you can expect to see strength gains in your arms and legs while doing this exercise modality. Positions and movements that are used to activate your core rely on your legs and arms to control and/or apply loads to the core powerhouse.
Pilates is a Flexibility Exercise
- The exercises in a Pilates workout will boost your flexibility. Also, they will increase your joint mobility.
- This workout will make your muscles more powerful. You’ll use your own bodyweight instead of weights.
- You’ll engage your muscles in a firm but gentle way.
- You can start with basic exercises then try advanced moves as you get better.
- You’ll need a mat. Some gyms have individual machines for Pilates, called a Reformer. However, chances are excellent that you probably don’t need it.
Classic Core – Strengthening Pilates Moves
Leg Circles
- Lie in a supine position. Make sure that your arms are by your sides with your palms facing down.
- Bend your left knee. Put your left foot flat on the floor. Extend your right leg up so that it’s straight to the floor.
- Circle your right leg out to the side and down towards the ground. Return it to your starting position. Make sure the circle as big as you can while still keeping your lower back on the floor.
- Reverse the circle.
- Complete all reps on one leg. Then repeat on the other side.
One Hundred
- Lie on your back. In other words, make sure that you’re in a supine position.
- Lift both legs up toward the ceiling. Lower them halfway, so that they’re at an angle.
- Curl your head up. Reach your arms long alongside your body with your palms facing down.
- Pump your arms up and down as you inhale for 5 counts and exhale for 5 counts.
- Repeat this breathing pattern 10 times while holding the position.
Single-Leg Stretch
- Lie face up.
- Bring both knees in towards your chest. Place your hands on your shins. Curl your head up off the floor.
- Extend one leg out at a time. Alternate sides.
- Keep your lower back on the floor and your core engaged throughout.
Why not head down to your local gym and check out the Pilates classes that they have on offer?
