4 Unexpected Benefits of Pilates
4 Unexpected Benefits of Pilates Pilates strengthens abs, alleviates back pain, increases flexibility, and improves focus through core exercises
4 Unexpected Benefits of Pilates Pilates strengthens abs, alleviates back pain, increases flexibility, and improves focus through core exercises
If you've ever watched someone do Pilates and thought it looked easy, you might be surprised by its challenging and transformative effects on both body and mind. Here are four significant ways Pilates can benefit you:
Pilates is renowned for strengthening the core, including the rectus abdominis ("six-pack" muscles). Research from Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise shows that after 36 weeks of Pilates training, women increased their rectus abdominis strength by 21% and improved muscle balance between their core sides. Here are two effective Pilates ab exercises to start with:
How to do it:
Why it's effective:
Defines lower abs and strengthens deep core muscles.
How to do it:
Why it's effective:
Challenges core stability, improves hip mobility, and strengthens quads and hamstrings.
Pilates is beneficial for alleviating and preventing lower back pain by strengthening core muscles that support the spine and improve spinal alignment. Here's a helpful exercise:
How to do it:
Why it's effective:
Releases spinal pressure, strengthens glutes and core.
Pilates exercises promote both strength and flexibility in major muscle groups, fostering long, lean muscles, improved elasticity, and joint mobility. Enhance your flexibility with:
How to do it:
Pilates requires continuous focus on breathing and precise movement, fostering a deep mind-body connection. The methodical approach of moving vertebrae by vertebrae enhances concentration, promoting faster brain cell growth and more effective nervous system connections.
If you seek a workout that challenges both body and mind, improves major muscle groups, and enhances flexibility, Pilates is an excellent choice. Explore Pilates classes suitable for all levels at our Manhattan locations and discover the transformative benefits firsthand. Whether you're a practitioner or instructor, we welcome you to join our community at our 57th location. Contact us today for more details!