Why should I do Pilates?

Pilates is good for your health

a whole body workout each and every time

Pilates is an method of exercising performed with control, flow and precision. It has not changed much since Joseph Pilates formulated the method in the 1920s. Joseph borrowed from lots of exercise disciplines to put together his method, so you are likely to be familiar with some of the moves if you have had done Yoga or resistance training. Pilates workouts activate all your major muscles and joints to give you a full body workout.

The focus in doing the exercises is control and awareness of your body and your breath, with all movement starting from your core (mainly your abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and buttocks) that Joseph Pilates referred to as your 'power house'. In activating your core at the start of a movement, a strong stable base is created to enable support of the arms and legs throughout the exercise.

There is scientific evidence that Pilates exercises builds muscle endurance, flexibility, balance and posture: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research paper by Kloubec, June A March 2010.

strengthens your muscles

All exercises in our Pilates classes are performed using body weight resistance, or with your choice of dumbbells. In addition, our reformer Pilates classes use the spring based weighted resistance. Using resistance builds muscle and bone strength. In addition, our Fit for Life classes and Chair Pilates classes are focused on functional balance, stability, mobility and strength training.

It is worth noting that the World Health Organisation recommened that all adults should do muscle strengthening exercises that involve all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week for those under age 65, and for those aged 65 and over, the recommendation is to do functional balance and strength training at a moderate or greater intensity on 3 or more days a week. Pilates would cover these recommendations.

Link: WHO paper on exercise 5 Oct 2022

develops core strength and ability

Pilates develops your core strength, balances muscular strength on both sides of your body. enhances muscular control of your back and limbs, and improves stabilisation of your spine. This helps enable the body to work effectively and can help reduce back and hip pain. It can also help improve your posture and make it easier to hold yourself with confidence and control.

restore balance in mind and body

As Pilates exercises are performed with mindfulness, your workout can bring calm and relaxation to your body and help with stress and anxiety.

As with all exercising, the body releases serotonin, the feel good hormone. You may find that you walk out of your workout that little bit happier than when you walked in (and not just because you are relieved the workout is over!)

The mind-body coordination of Pilates can help improve your attention span, self-efficacy, your mood and brain activity. This will help you in all aspects of your life both at work, rest and at play. Exercising can also help develop good sleep patterns.