5 Reasons to (re)start Pilates
“Every moment of our life can be the beginning of great things.” ~ Joseph Pilates
When September comes around, I think of either starting something new, or returning to something that fell off the list. It’s my own version of “going back to school”. So, if you’ve never started Pilates, but always wanted to, I’m here to tell you that it’s never too late to start Pilates… Or anything else for that matter. My mom started Pilates when she was approximately 70 years young, and at the time, she said she was too old to start. In fact, every time we have our Pilates sessions, she reminds me she’s too old to practice Pilates, but she’s practicing with me and on her own. Pilates meets you where you are, and you progress from there.
Maybe you started Pilates, but dropped it off your movement list. I’m here to say pick it back up. If you’re feeling your age, aches and pains, things that are bothersome now that never used to be, a previous injury is rearing its ugly head, then it’s time to come back to Pilates. Pilates for EVERY body. Are you a young teen? A grandparent? An athlete? A weekend warrior? Are you in physical rehab? Are you coming out of rehab, or some form of physical therapy? Are you a parent? Do you work at a desk job? Do you stand for long periods of time? If you answered yes, then Pilates is for YOU.
So here’s a list of 5 reasons for YOU to start Pilates now, or restart Pilates if it fell off your list!
Pilates is a popular form of exercise that offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Here are five compelling reasons to start practicing Pilates:
- 1 – Improved Core Strength: Everyone wants to “get stronger”, and one of the primary focuses of Pilates is to develop a strong and stable core. The exercises target the muscles in your abdomen, upper back, lower back, glutes, and inner thighs, helping you build a solid foundation of core strength. A strong core enhances your posture, stability, and overall body alignment, reducing the risk of injuries and improving your overall physical performance in daily activities, hobbies, overall fitness, other movement modalities, and sports.
- 2 – Enhanced Flexibility: As you “get stronger”, muscles can tighten. However, Pilates incorporates a wide range of movements that promote flexibility in various muscle groups. Through controlled and fluid movements, Pilates helps to elongate and stretch muscles, leading to increased flexibility and improved range of motion in your joints. This can be particularly beneficial for people who spend long hours sitting or those looking to maintain joint health as they age.
- 3 – Better Body Awareness and Balance: By developing strength and flexibility, Pilates emphasizes mind-body connection and encourages you to be aware of your body’s alignment and movements. This heightened body awareness translates into better balance and coordination, both in your Pilates practice and daily activities. Improved balance can help prevent falls and promote graceful movement in various aspects of your life.
- 4 – Stress Relief and Mindfulness: Just 5-10 minutes of Pilates each day, or longer if you have the time, can make you feel like you can take on the day, or help you unwind, depending on what time of day you practice. Engaging in Pilates requires focus and concentration, which can help you achieve a state of mindfulness and alleviate stress. The controlled breathing techniques incorporated in Pilates can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Regular Pilates practice can provide a mental break from the stresses of daily life, offering a holistic approach to fitness and mental well-being.
- 5 – Low-Impact Exercise: If you’re looking for a well-rounded, full body workout, Pilates is a low-impact exercise method, making it suitable for people of various fitness levels and ages. Unlike high-impact workouts, Pilates is gentle on your joints while still providing an effective full-body workout. This makes it an excellent option for those recovering from injuries or looking for a safer way to exercise without putting excessive strain on their bodies.
Overall, Pilates is a versatile exercise form that can benefit people from different walks of life, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking to enhance your training routine or someone seeking a gentle yet effective way to improve physical and mental health. Always consult with a qualified instructor before starting any new exercise program to ensure you perform the movements correctly and safely.
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Neither is right or wrong; it’s all preference. Where will I see you?