When you’ve had a hard day at work and the gym seems like a chore, there’s one activity which will make you feel relaxed, elated and in seriously fit shape. And it’s not what you think, you filthy lot. Pilates isn’t just a celebrity fad. It really works. And here’s why –
Pilates
1. Arms like an A-lister
Celebrities consistently credit Pilates as the reason for their toned muscles. Given that the stars often have to plan their days down to the last minute – what with all their photoshoots, interviews, meetings, Pilates fits easily into their day. And not only is it a hugely efficient full-body workout, it has many additional benefits, too.
2. No poor posture here
Pilates programmes are praised by everyone from athletes to office workers for their ability to develop strength and correct posture in the key areas of the hips/lower back, upper back and neck – basically counteracting the effects of slouching.
3. You can even try it when pregnant
Pregnancy and childbirth are times of significant change for the body, obviously. But some women don’t want to give up their exercise routine as soon as they see those little blue lines. Mums-to-be who regularly exercise their core muscles can expect to experience shorter labours and reduced lower back and pelvic pain.
4. A life free from back pain
Pilates was initially developed as a rehabilitative tool. Joseph Pilates was a German gymnast, born in 1883, who dedicated his life to teaching his exercising techniques, believing that poor posture goes hand-in-hand with poor health. He believed that by having awareness of breath and of alignment of the spine, we can strengthen the deep torso and abdominal muscles, and reduce stress.
5. Exercise without the fuss
When going to the gym fills you with dread and you keep putting it off, Pilates lets you tailor your workouts and even complete sessions at home.