PILATES REFORMER

Who can do Pilates?

Pilates can be done by anyone regardless of age or fitness level. Unlike strength training and HIIT workouts, Pilates is low-impact and safe for everyone. Both beginners and experienced people can enjoy Pilates and vary the exercise based on the difficulty you are comfortable with. You can get progressions or modifications to match your level.

But isn't it like yoga?

Despite focusing on mindfulness and stretching, yoga emphasizes meditation and relaxation more, while Pilates promotes physically intense exercises that get your core working. Yoga focuses on static poses, while Pilates is more about a steady pace. With yoga, you hold specific, repetitive poses for extended periods, but when doing Pilates, you have shorter sets with fewer reps.

Why do Pilates

Pilates is a great way to expand your fitness horizons, whether on the mat or as a Pilates reformer. The functional movements strengthen your core, improve mobility and ultimately straighten your back by strengthening your core and correcting any strength imbalances. Pilates is the best introduction to grow your physical and mental endurance.

Things to keep in mind and improve your experience with Pilates.

• Dress the part in comfortable yet body-hugging workout gear. Capris or leggings are a great option. You must wear non-slippery socks with rubber detailing for increased grip.

• Pilates should be part of a well-rounded routine, not the only exercise. Create a cross-training routine that matches your fitness goals.

• Avoid injury by pacing your exercises and avoiding over-stressing your muscles by not giving them enough recovery time before the next class.

• Pilates can get quite intense, and you might be sore the next day. Give yourself ample recovery, and remember that your body will get used to the exercises with time.

• Let your instructor know you are a beginner. This ensures they can keep an eye on you throughout the class and provide any form adjustments.

• Slow and intentional movement are key. Concentrate on controlling your movements, not just swinging your arms or legs around. Actively think about each movement as you do it and how it feels and which muscles you're working.

• Remember to breathe. Breathe deeply from the diaphragm, engage your core, and pair each breath with the movement you're performing.

• Pilates may not be the most effective form of physical activity to support weight loss. Pilates help tone your muscles and increase mobility, not burning the max number of calories.

If you struggle to keep a straight posture and get hunched up all too often, have a stiff and aching back or weak core, or perhaps feel like you need more mobility, Pilates is what you need. Check out Reformer Pilates sessions and sign up for one today.