Pilates focuses on the core muscles and teaches proper posture and movement patterns to keep your body strong and healthy. It also enhances proprioception (the awareness of where your body is in space) which can reduce falls, injuries and even back pain.
It helps relieve stress – The slow, focused movements of pilates help you to focus on your body and its sensations, helping to release tension from the mind and bringing an overall sense of wellbeing.
Improves balance and body awareness – The slow, controlled stretching movements of Pilates increase flexibility while strengthening the muscles at the same time. This can prevent sprains and falls and improve balance, which becomes especially important as you age.
Strengthens core muscles – Pilates strengthens the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles which are important for good posture and supporting the lower back. Strong core muscles can also reduce neck and shoulder pain.
Enhances muscle tone – The exercises used in Pilates require you to engage your muscles and hold them in the correct positions for short periods of time, which can help you look and feel leaner.
Boosts circulation – Pilates is low impact, which means it doesn’t force the body to work as hard as other types of exercise, but still increases your blood flow and helps your circulatory system function better. This can be particularly beneficial if you are older or suffer from conditions like vascular disease or diabetes.
Find a qualified instructor – To get the most out of your pilates experience, it’s a good idea to book into a session with an instructor who is certified through a reputable Pilates organization. The right instructor will guide you through the movements with correct form and technique, offer modifications for individual body types or postural concerns and be able to layer and progress the workout appropriately for your ability.