Pilates has been nothing short of amazing for me. When I first started practicing it, I had no idea how profoundly it would impact my body and overall well-being. Pilates and all its glory has become my secret weapon for feeling fantastic both inside and out.

Let me share all that I have experienced, with you!

What Is Pilates?

Pilates, developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, is a mind-body exercise method that emphasizes controlled movements, proper alignment, and breathing. It’s not just a workout; it’s a group of exercises that transform how you move, feel, and carry yourself in your daily life. The practice of Pilates involves a series of fluid movements that aim to improve flexibility, strength, and posture. It does this by focusing on core strength and stability,

Pilates can help individuals prevent injuries and alleviate back pain. Additionally, the emphasis on breathing techniques during Pilates sessions can promote relaxation and reduce stress, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. Pilates is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it a versatile and inclusive approach to exercise.

Pilates Types

There are two different types of Pilates- mat and equipment based. One involves doing exercises on a mat and having that be the only piece of equipment used. The other one involves using things like a reformer machine, bars, rings, bands and even light weights.

The following are some pros and cons of each type:

1. Mat Pilates:
   • Focus: Mat Pilates primarily uses your body weight for resistance. It focuses on core strength, flexibility, and balance.
   • Pros:
     • Accessible: You can do it anywhere with just a mat.
     • Affordable: No need for specialized machines and there are a lot of mat Pilates workout videos on YouTube for free.
     • Core Emphasis: Great for strengthening your core muscles.
   • Cons:
     • Limited Variety: Exercises are limited to mat work.
     • Less Support: No equipment to assist or challenge you.
2. Equipment-Based Pilates:
   • Focus: These classes use specialized machines and other types of equipment. They offer more variety and resistance.
   • Pros:
     • Versatility: Equipment allows for a wider range of exercises.
     • Customization: Springs and pulleys on the reformer machine can be adjusted to your level.
     • Support and Challenge: Machines provide support and/or added resistance.
   • Cons:
     • Cost and Availability: Equipment classes may be pricier and less common and the reformer machine is not cheap.
     • Learning Curve: It takes time to get used to the machines.
     • Too Much Space: If you like working out at home, all the equipment might take up a lot of space.

Considerations:

• Goals: If you want a full-body workout with variety, equipment-based classes are ideal.
• Health Conditions: Mat Pilates may be better if you have joint issues or injuries.
• Preference: Try both and see which resonates with you.

How I Got Into Pilates

I first found out about Pilates when I became really interested in staying fit and having a workout routine back in 2008. I bought a Mari Windsor Pilates DVD just for kicks and ended up loving it. I did the workout off and on along with other Pilates workouts for a couple years but eventually just kind of stopped doing them altogether.

In 2022, I was about 12 days out of a bout of COVID and was itching to get some kind of movement in. So, I decided to look for Pilates workouts on YouTube (I can’t stand Yoga) as I thought it would be a good way to ease back into working out.

I got hooked once again!

I started doing it on a regular basis- starting with once or twice a week. Now I do it pretty much every day

How Pilates Has Made My Body Look and Feel Great

1. Sculpted Muscles

Pilates has really targeted all areas of my body. The slow, deliberate movements seems to have created a level of lean I didn’t think I could get to and stay at. My abs, arms, and thighs have never looked better!

2. Improved Posture

Pilates trains your body to sit up straight by strengthening the core and promoting balance. I actually do feel taller and my posture is much better.

3. Better Flexibility

Pilates promotes flexibility and I can honestly say I am super flexible. Like, I never knew I could be this flexible!

4. Mental Wellness

I find Pilates to help with my mental wellness just as much as my physical. It is almost meditative for me even if I am doing an intense session.

5. Increased Energy

Regular Pilates sessions leave me feeling energized and accomplished.

Getting Started with Pilates

1. Find a Qualified Instructor or a Great Video: Look for certified Pilates instructors in your area who can guide you through proper form and technique. For videos, just do a search and find one that resonates with you based on the movements, channel reputation and maybe even the comments. Stick to the videos that state the workouts are for beginners if you are just starting.
2. Choose Mat or Equipment Classes: Mat Pilates uses your body weight, while equipment classes incorporate specialized machines like reformers. If you are starting out at home, you will be doing mat Pilates unless you are so gun-ho about it that you bought a machine, bands, weights etc. to use beforehand. Getting a mat is the best place to start if you are doing sessions at home.
3. Consistency Is Key: Aim for at least two sessions per week and a good diet to see and feel noticeable results in a few weeks.
4. Listen to Your Body: Modify exercises as needed and progress gradually. If something hurts, stop doing it. Don’t try to work through the pain.

Conclusion

Pilates has transformed my body, making it stronger, leaner, and more resilient. But beyond the physical changes, it has also helped my mental health. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Pilates is an awesome choice for whole-body wellness!

Let me know in the comments if you like Pilates and what results you have seen from it. Also, look out for some workout plans coming your way that include Pilates in them. I want you to get in the best shape of life just like I am!

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Health disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

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