In the past 20 years, Pilates has become one of the most popular workout routines. Fitness instructors can’t say enough good things about it! Have you considered hopping on the bandwagon? If so, then take a look at these three things before you try Pilates. I want you to have a fully rounded idea of exactly what you’re getting into.
Weight Loss is Not the Focus of Pilates
Many people believe that Pilates can greatly aid you in losing weight. This notion isn’t completely wrong. If you go from a rather sedentary lifestyle to any regular exercise, then you may lose weight. Pilates instructor Ben Greenfield feels like there is too much emphasis on the weight loss aspect of the exercise. “Pilates has definite benefits, but its strongest suit is certainly not weight loss,” he tells Huffington Post. Pilates provides low impact to strengthen your core rather than intense cardio.
If you exercise for weight loss you may want to stick with your typical cardio workouts. However, if you’re looking to improve your posture and build your core, Pilates is the right way to go. The benefits don’t stop there. Pilates can strengthen, not only your core, but all of your muscles. More muscle mass may indirectly aid weight loss, as it increases your body’s efficiency.
What to Know About Injuries
If you’re considering Pilates to help you heal from an injury it’s is important that you speak with your physician first. I really can’t emphasize that enough. It’s a common misconception that exercises like Pilates and yoga are meant for individuals with injuries. However, without proper instructions and supervision, you may worsen the injury. You could even injure yourself in a new way.
Once your doctor okays you for a Pilates routine, you will then want to set up a private session with an instructor. They can show you the proper moves and make note of your limitations. One of the truly amazing things about Pilates is that it has the flexibility to work with you. If you can’t perform the actual movement, there’s always an alternative to make it easier on your body.
Once you’ve mastered Pilates on your own, join group classes. Pilates is great in a group setting. Community workouts can be extremely beneficial.
Pilates is for Everyone
Man, woman, or child, Pilates doesn’t exclude anyone. Some men feel embarrassed to try out Pilates because it is seen as a “woman’s workout.” However, many men use Pilates to aid in their workout routines. In fact, Pilates was created by a man named Joseph Pilates.
Stack.com compiled a list of seven NFL players who use Pilates as a way to make themselves more limber, in between lifting weights. Nate Burelson likes it because Pilates had not only made his muscles more flexible, it benefits his ligaments and tendons with more “give.” The article explains that a lot of football players use Pilates as a “prehab” to prevent injury on the field.
Like any exercise routine, without precaution and training, you could injure yourself when you first try Pilates. That’s why it’s important to have the proper training before attempting it by yourself. A physician can tell you whether or not the workout is safe, and an instructor will be able to give you one-on-one lessons and show you moves that fit your mobility.
Please feel free to contact me to schedule a telemedicine consultation or office consultation at our Integrative Medical Center in Metamora, Indiana. I will be glad to help you.
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