Pilates is a low-impact workout initially used for rehabilitation. Nowadays, it’s known as a high-priced gym class. Despite the high cost of classes these days, Pilates is a workout that actually can be done at home with no equipment and what appears to be little effort. But don’t be fooled. The level of micro-attention your muscles will receive in these intentional movements will tone and strengthen your body as almost no other workout can.
But the question is, why are all the girls doing Pilates? The answer is simple – celebrity influence.
Lori Harvey, our favorite “It” girl, celebrity offspring of Steve Harvey, skin care owner, model, and influencer sent the girls into a tizzy when she revealed in a red carpet interview that Pilates was the key to her killer abs. The surge of health-conscious women of color venturing into the Pilates world skyrocketed, and it’s seriously refreshing.
Please note that you should consult with your physician before performing any new exercise routine. This post is based on my opinion and is not meant to treat, cure or prevent any diseases or make any promises of any physical transformation. Do your due diligence before performing any new physical regimen. In addition, this post makes contains affiliate links, meaning I may receive a commission should you buy anything through said link at no cost to you. Feel free to read the full disclosure here
Where did Pilates Originate From?
Its been around since the 1920’s when it was developed by Joseph Pilates a physical trainer. He developed the method of exercise for the purpose of rehabilitation.
Joseph became enthralled with the Greek philosophy of balance in mind, spirit, and body. He set out to design a method or routine of exercise that highlighted the mind-body connection. Thus, much of Pilates is done with focused breathing accompanied by slow deliberate, controlled movements.
The results? Well, read more to find out what happens when you practice Pilates!
Is Pilates For Girls?
Believe it or not, Pilates was originally mainly used exclusively by men. As mentioned earlier the exercise was used as rehabilitation, but this rehabilitation method was for previously injured world war 2 soldiers. As the years went on, Pilates became synonymous with female workout routines largely due to its gentle, low-impact movements. So in actuality, this is a unisex exercise but can be especially beneficial for females
Another reason why women may find Pilates especially attractive is that it does not cause you to bulk muscle like many other workouts. Many women prefer to look toned and lean. If this is the aesthetic you’re going for then this is EXACTLY the exercise you want to be incorporated into your routine.
For females under 18
While Pilates should be fine for females under 18, always ensure that your child is healthy enough for exercise. In addition, do ensure that they are always accompanied by an adult and that they are instructed by a trained professional.
Health benefits of Pilates
Improved mood
Pilates is a method of exercise that offers you energy as opposed to draining you of it. Much of this is done through deliberate movements and deep breathing incorporated with its movements.
Deep breathing has long been associated with the relief of depression, anxiety, and stress. Deep breathing sends more oxygen to the brain activating a part of your nervous system that oversees mood, digestion, and heart rate.
In addition, the slow, mindful movements encourage a deep mind-body connection. Pilates uses movement as a method to create total oneness with the body. It rehabilitates the body to create balance and alignment. The method increases awareness and a sort of oneness with your physical being. So much so that some people say their aches and pains go away after a few sessions.
Personally, at the time of writing this, I am 1 week into my Pilates journey. And I can tell you that after a session I feel energized and my mood is better. I have even come to crave workouts because of how they make me feel. I wake up in the morning and its the first thing I want to do after my prayers – its seriously changing my life and regulating my mood.
Long, lean muscles
If Lori’s abs aren’t enough to convince you just do a quick google search on the topic “Pilates body.” Girl, listen – beautiful. The workouts create long lean muscles that most women can appreciate while still appearing feminine. The routine focuses on toning and stretching the tendons to create definition without creating bulk as seen in bodybuilding. You will intuitively feel taller and become leaner.
Better Posture
The exercises consist of dynamic stretches that elongate as mentioned earlier. Pilates has been shown to enhance posture through the deliberate stretching and toning of muscles. The spine and muscular structures are activated and realigned with each movement. It is the perfect exercise to address the structural alignment of the body.
What Kind of Workout is Pilates?
LOW IMPACT- Pilates is a low-impact exercise. This means that not only are you putting minimal pressure on joints but you are carefully moving your body by encouraging your mind to move each limb in the way that you want. No quick bursts and hops that can leave you injured.
Pilates for Beginners
Pilates appeals to those who are brand new to the fitness journey. This is because the movements appear simple, fluid, low impact, and some might say “easy.” Oh but do not be fooled. This workout will definitely work you HARD. This is the allure of Pilates and by the time you’ve figured out how hard you working you’ll likely be hooked.
One of my favorite Pilates instructors is Move with Nicole on YouTube. She’s who I am starting with and I really enjoy her routines. I specifically love her warm-ups and cool-downs. Pay special attention to how she instructs you on breathing. Your breath control affects your mood after the workout and actually increases the efficacy of the movement, making the workout more effective in toning your body.
Modifiable
Pilates is excellent for beginners because the movements are modifiable according to your fitness level. It encourages a connection between your mind and body so that you focus on moving each muscle exactly as your mind wants it to.
No Equipment Needed
All you need is an exercise mat. It’s very low impact so it’s perfect for those who have limited mobility, recovering from an injury ect. If that’s you, you’re in good company, as Joseph Pilates first started this routine as a rehabilitation method for injured soldiers.
Everything is intentional, allowing you to breathe into movement as you stretch and encourage your body’s muscles to lengthen through each routine. This gives you the time to truly fall in love with exercising and getting your body moving and stretching again.
Reformer Pilates
There are many different forms of Pilates that have evolved over the years. The one I want to speak on is Reformer Pilates. This method uses a Reformer machine, a bed-like platform that glides back and forth with resistance bands attached.
Using a reformer focuses on core strength and proper muscle engagement which improves back pain, injury recovery, weight loss, balance, bone density, and posture to name a few.
Is Pilates good for Weight Loss?
Many people say they have lost weight with reformer Pilates. However, I like to think of Pilates as a way to create long lean muscles and tone and build a strong physical appearance. I’d combine cardio with Pilates to drop fat and build muscle at the same time.
The Takeaway
With all exercise routines always consult your physician. However, if you’re looking to build strength and definition then this is a perfect workout for you.
Hey, Lilies! thank you for reading my post on Why are all the girls doing Pilates? Take a look at my other content here!
About the Author
De’Shante’ Grant-Parris
De’Shante’ is a Lifestyle and Wellness blogger with a degree in Psychology. De’Shante’s love for living a life in balance was heightened through her experiences watching people in her life lose themselves to the rat race of life. De ‘Shante believes unbearable stress and neglect can lead to many preventable illnesses. She is an advocate for a life of wellness and self-care as top priorities in our human experience.
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