Benefits of Pilates

Get Toned. Get Lean.

Pilates strengthens the body as a whole leaving you with long, lean muscles and zero bulk. Pilates exercises target smaller and otherwise neglected muscles, helping prevent bulkiness. The workout stretches and tones your body from head to toe resulting in a balanced and toned body. Expect to leave each session with an incredible awareness of your body and zero tension.

Pilates as cardio? Actually, the best kind of cardio! Swap the footbar for the jump board to turn up the heat. Get your heart rate up and target your core with high intensity yet low impact, zero gravity jumping intervals. Jumpboard is ideal for Pilates lovers ready to get their heart rate up and challenge themselves. And do not forget it is completely low-impact hence easy on your joints!

Build a Solid Core

While there are specific exercises in Pilates that target your core (the Hundred being one of the well-known moves) you will quickly see how all exercises require you to keep your abs in and your core tight. Most Pilates moves require proper alignment and balance hence get ready to activate your deeper abdominal muscles in each class from start to finish. It is also important to highlight that in Pilates the core is referred to as the Powerhouse (learn the difference between “core” and “Powerhouse” here) No matter what muscle group you may be working during a particular exercise you will often hear me say “Pull your belly button into your spine”, “Engage the glutes” and “Close your ribcage”. All of which target your Powerhouse to make Pilates the best core workout there is.

Gain Flexibility

The Reformer uses resistance to control every stretch which keeps all of your muscles engaged. Pilates has been the go-to stretching method of dancers and many other elite athletes. In fact, a recent study showed that after only 8 weeks of regularly practicing Pilates people showed significant improved flexibility.

Erase Your Aches And Prevent Injuries

Your solid core will not only look good, it will also support your back (read more about the Pilates Powerhouse here). Say goodbye to lower-back pain for good! Regular Pilates practice will also prevent future injuries by improving your mobility and balance. I personally suffered from terrible lower-back pain since my early twenties. Pilates helped me build strength and completely get rid of any pain.

Sit Up Straight & Stand Up Tall

Each exercise requires engagement of proper muscles teaching you control over your body. As instructors, our job is to make sure you move in proper alignment and balance. We use various verbal and visual cues to make sure you are able to stay in proper alignment. You will soon notice yourself sitting up straighter and standing up taller.

Lose Weight

Pilates method is a great way to trim inches of your waist. 3-4 weekly sessions (with that personal touch and fully custom workout routine) will leave you feeling lighter and leaner. Pilates will give you a slim waistline you have been dreaming about. Consistent abdominal engagement during all exercises along with targeted ab work such as the Mermaid which targets obliques - guaranteed to lengthen out your sides.