The workout is beloved by dancers, athletes, and celebrities for its ability to build a lean physique and improve balance and flexibility. It’s also an excellent option for people with injuries, joint pain, or other limitations. It’s low-impact, and often performed on a mat or with special equipment like reformers or barrels.
Originally created by Joseph Pilates in the 1800s, pilates is a form of exercise that incorporates breathing, mind-body awareness and muscular control. It’s performed at a relatively slow pace, focusing on the smaller muscles that support the larger ones. While it’s not an aerobic workout, it does involve low repetitions — five to 10 repetitions in a session that lasts 45 to 90 minutes.
For beginners, it’s best to find a qualified instructor, someone who can assess your strength, flexibility and needs and can teach you the basic movements. Many studios offer introductory packages starting with private sessions so you can get acquainted with the instructors and the studio’s equipment before joining group classes. Some trainers offer specialized programs for different populations (e.g. pregnant women, active agers) which can help you make the most of your pilates experience.
It’s important to understand the difference between flexibility and mobility. Flexibility is the passive stretch of a muscle, while mobility is how far a joint moves through a range of motion. Both are essential to good health, but it’s crucial to have a balanced approach that includes both mobility and flexibility.