What Is Pilates? Everything You Need To Know
Feel like you've hit a workout plateau? Fear not, ladies. This is completely normal. In fact, many fitness enthusiasts have felt this way at some point in their fitness journey. But have you heard of Pilates? It might just be the thing you need to shake up your routine and re-ignite your motivation!
If you’ve been on FitTok (AKA Fitness TikTok) lately, you’ll have no doubt seen someone raving about Pilates workouts. - but if you're sat there wondering 'what is Pilates?', we're here to shed a light on exactly what it entails.
WHAT IS PILATES?
Simply put, it's a form of exercise that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and endurance through controlled movements and breathing. It's based on six principles: concentration, control, centering, flow, precision and breathing. These principles are designed to help you achieve a mind-body connection while performing the exercises.
One of the best things about Pilates is that it's a low-impact exercise, meaning that it's kinder on your joints and muscles. Plus, you can do it with or without equipment - bonus! The most common pieces of equipment used in Pilates are the reformer, Cadillac, and chair. These machines use springs and pulleys to provide resistance and support during the exercises.
THE BENEFITS OF PILATES
Pilates can help to improve your overall fitness by increasing strength, flexibility, and endurance. It can also improve your posture, reduce stress and anxiety, and relieve back pain. So, if you're looking to improve your core strength, flexibility, balance, and posture, Pilates could be a great option for you. It's also great for stress relief and can help you feel more relaxed and centred.
Pilates: The Basics Explained
1. Principles: Pilates is based on six principles: concentration, control, centering, flow, precision, and breathing. These principles are designed to help you achieve a mind-body connection while performing the exercises.
2. Equipment: Pilates can be done with or without equipment. The most common pieces of equipment used in Pilates are the reformer, Cadillac, and chair. These machines use springs and pulleys to provide resistance and support during the exercises.
3. Exercises: Pilates exercises are low-impact and typically performed in a slow, controlled manner. They focus on strengthening the core muscles (abdominals, back, and hips), as well as improving flexibility, balance, and posture.
4. Benefits: Pilates can help improve your overall fitness by increasing strength, flexibility, and endurance. It can also improve posture, reduce stress and anxiety, and relieve back pain.
5. Classes: Pilates classes can be done in a group setting or one-on-one with a certified instructor. Classes typically last between 45 minutes and one hour and may include mat work, equipment exercises, or a combination of both.
So, should you do Pilates? Well, it depends on your personal goals and fitness level. If you're new to exercise or have any physical limitations, it's important to work with a certified Pilates instructor who can modify the exercises to meet your needs. And, if you don't have the time or money to attend regular classes, there are many online resources available that can help you practice Pilates at home.
READ MORE: LISS vs HIIT: Which Is Better For You & Your Goals
If you’re looking for premium Pilates leggings to get you started, look no further than our selection of activewear sets that offer the perfect balance of comfort, support and flexibility.
Whether you're looking to improve your core strength, flexibility, or overall health, Pilates is definitely worth trying. But don't just take our word for it - why not give it a go and see what all the fuss is about? Your body and mind will thank you for it. Trust us!