For many first-timers, pilates may seem like a fancy workout with strange exercise names, movements, springs, and straps (reformer pilates). If you have always wanted to try out pilates, but felt that it is not for you, this blog will help you think otherwise.
Pilates is a simple and straightforward exercise form that offers plenty of benefits to its practitioners. Whatever your fitness background is, pilates may suit you well if you are looking to improve your posture, increase your flexibility, improve your balance and strengthen your core. You can either sign up for mat-pilates, reformer pilates, or both and well be on your way towards better health.
Understanding Pilates
Pilates is one of the most popular low-impact exercise forms the world has seen. As the moves in this exercise target different muscle groups in the body, particularly the core, it is widely accepted as an everyday workout. Pilates is a full-body workout that strengthens and stabilizes the body improving your flexibility and mobility.
If you are new to pilates and want to know more, here are 7 things about this wonderful workout that will excite you.
- Know the types
There are two kinds of pilates classes- the mat and reformer pilates. As the name suggests, mat pilates is performed on a mat while reformer is performed on a machine of the same name. The reformer machine has a sliding platform with an attached foot bar, springs, and pulleys to provide resistance.
Although reformers may seem a little intimidating, it is a fun way to learn Pilates. As the machine’s platform and resistances help you push and test your limits better, even first-timers find it very easy. Mat pilates on the other hand will require some practice to gain perfection.
While both are recommended to newcomers, it is entirely your call as to which pilates class you want to join.
- Know your equipment
Apart from the mat and reformer, there are many other types of equipment like a spine corrector, high chair, or a resistance ring called the magic circle used in Pilates classes. However, these are not introduced in beginner classes.
As a beginner, you will be mostly working on the mat, which is a bit thicker than your average yoga mat and the reformer with its many resistances.
- Know the after effects
As you may have already guessed, you are going to feel your muscles burn during the class, especially if you are new to exercising. Your body will be sore for a few days even if your first class was quite basic.
This is nothing to worry about. As you get used to the moves and practice them regularly, your muscles will become accustomed to the exercise and slowly build strength and flexibility. You may feel sore once in a while as the intensity of your routine is increased. However, remember that it is to push your body further and improve your form and doesn’t hurt in the long run.
- Focus on different muscle groups
Pilates is not restricted to specific parts of the body. Although it puts more emphasis on the core or abdominal muscles, pilates classes also work several muscle groups like the thighs, hips, and back. In short, Pilates is a full-body workout that you can do every day.
- Beginner classes may seem repetitive
Although it is not. Most beginner sessions feature similar exercises to target specific parts of the body during each class. Moves like roll-up, leg circles, or the breathing technique called the Hundred are regularly used in beginner pilates classes. This ensures that your body is prepared regularly, by increasing your stamina and endurance, to do tricker and intense movements.
- Wear form-fitting exercise clothes
Even though some of you may prefer loose-fitting clothes while working out, pilates trainers recommend wearing form-fitting clothes during classes. This allows your movements to be seen clearly and keeps your clothes from getting caught between the parts of the reformer or other equipment.
- Pilates is all you need
As a well-rounded fitness plan, pilates classes are all you need as your weekly dose of exercise. Ensure that you don’t miss your scheduled classes and take rest during the off days to recover from any muscle pains. So if you have always stayed away from exercising thinking that it’s too much work, commit only to pilates and you can still be on your way towards better fitness.
So, are you ready to join our Pilates classes in Dubai? Reach out to our wellness center in Jumeirah to learn more.
