What is pilates?
Pilates is a low impact exercise that improves spinal alignment, posture, and flexibility while strengthening muscles and toning the body. Most pilates move target the core but there are exercises that target other areas as well. It was originally created by Joseph C Pilates who invented it to help rehabilitate soldiers after war.
Pilates can be done on a mat or a reformer, and with equipment or without equipment. A reformer is a machine that consists of a sliding platform, stationer foot bar, pulleys, and springs that act as resistance.
Precise breath control and slow, controlled movements are two of the main foundations. A Pilates workouts usually last 45 minutes to an hour and incorporates stretching. Intensity level can vary from basic to moderate based on skill level.
What is pilates good for?
It strengthens your trunk and works the entire body without aerobic movement. It also lets you use your own body weight as opposed to weights, engaging all muscle groups gently but in an effective manner. This is a positive, as the activity strengthens you without adding bulkiness.
Pilates is a highly adaptable exercise for all fitness levels and can be integrated into existing workout routines. It’s also a fantastic remedy to poor posture, especially if you work a desk job or sit frequently during the day.
It will give you long, graceful muscles like a dancer while increasing the connection between mind and body.
How many calories does pilates burn?
Pilates can burn about 175 calories in a beginner level class between 45-60 minutes. A more advanced class burn up to 254 calories, and a reformer instead of a mat class also ups the ante. These are the stats for an average, 150 lb (68kg) person.
How often should you do pilates?
Aim to do pilates up to twice a week to see optimal results. Even if weight loss isn’t immediate, you’ll feel a different in terms of flexibility, balance, and strength. If this routine is stuck with, results should be seen in a three month period and the compliments will start rolling in. You can adjust this amount based on the other physical activity in your weekly routine.
How to do pilates at home
All you need is an exercise mat or yoga mat to do pilates at home. Working out has never been cheaper or easier. This is also a fantastic way to gain confidence before heading to the gym. Doing variations of core-blasting movements like “the hundred” is a great place to start, and there are plenty of fitness videos and tutorials on IG and YouTube.
What to wear to pilates
Try to wear fitted but comfortable clothing made from breathable materials such as cotton, and a light to medium support sports bra. In most pilates classes, you’ll be barefoot or wearing sticky socks. These are socks specific for workouts with grip bottoms that let you hold extend poses.