Most people have heard a little bit about Pilates, and we’re sure you have too. After all, you’re here to learn more! We’d like to share more about what Pilates is, as well as how it stands apart from other types of exercise. If you have further questions or would like to try a Pilates class yourself, please feel free to reach out to us here at Re:Gen Pilates. We look forward to having you in class!
What is Pilates?
Pilates is, at its core, a full-body workout that incorporates both machines and body exercises. The goal is to work out the entire body, both right and left sides, at one time. Joseph Pilates, the creator of this method, believed that the core was the powerhouse of the body. We agree completely! That’s why all Pilates exercises are focused on your core.
What do beginning Pilates exercises look like?
Many Pilates instructors will have you begin with “the hundreds,” which is an exercise that includes 10 breaths that take 10 seconds apiece to equal 100. While laying on the floor, you will be instructed to lift your legs to a 45-degree angle, if possible, as long as you can keep your back flat. By tightening your abs, you will be able to lift your head and shoulders off the floor and hold a hollow position. Then, you pulse your arms at your sides while keeping them straight.
This is a great beginner exercise that sends blood to your heart while still encouraging circulation in the rest of your body. Heightened circulation is more likely to stimulate your organs, meaning that Pilates is a workout that works both internally and externally.
What sets Pilates apart from other fitness classes?
Pilates is a little different from other exercises because it’s entirely non-impact. Also, most exercises rely on using the body as a whole. You’ll be lying on your back, lying on your side, or even kneeling on the floor when it is safe to do so. As you move your body, you do so starting with the core. Pilates also focuses on balancing all parts of your body as you exercise, which can help ensure that one side isn’t doing more than the other.
What makes Pilates different from yoga?
While both Pilates and yoga are about connecting the body to the mind, and both are very fluid exercises, there are some differences. For example, we use equipment in Pilates, and yoga is just you and a mat. The equipment uses springs and pulleys to resist your movements, which often makes Pilates more challenging many times. Of course, this also depends on the type of yoga you do! If you want to try the difference for yourself, consider trying both; we offer yoga and Pilates at Re:Gen Pilates!
How can I tell if Pilates is right for me?
While Pilates is not a great fit for everyone, it can still help even those who have suffered from injuries in the past. In fact, some participants claim that they begin to feel less discomfort and fewer flare-ups of chronic pain. Pilates is now being used more and more as therapy to help those who have serious illnesses as well. If you are unsure about Pilates, consult your doctor. If they give you the go-ahead, contact us! You can try one of our classes and see if it fits what you are looking for.
Is Pilates considered cardio?
In the beginning, Pilates may not seem like cardio. This is because you will need to be taught everything before you are ready to tackle the workout head-on. However, once you get to a more advanced level, you’ll easily get a cardio workout. For those who want cardio training in their classes, you may be able to work towards it over time! Mastering the basic techniques is essential first before trying to boost your heart rate.
How can Pilates change my body?
For some people, they find that Pilates improves their strength. For others, they see their posture improve. Others have lost weight, gained flexibility, and have seen an improvement in their overall health and wellness. Pilates is all about pulling in the navel and flattening the abdominal wall as much as possible. This can lead to a stronger core and a more balanced body overall.
Check Out Re:Gen Pilates!
If you would like to learn more and see what Pilates can do for your body, then contact us today! This is by no mean a complete list of questions we get about Pilates, but the number one way to get answers is to ask us! We would be happy to chat with you about any questions or concerns you may have about our facility or classes. Check out our class schedule to choose a time that works best for you.
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