Who said exercise had to be painful? What if I told you Pilates can calm the mind while building a strong body?
Understanding the essence of Pilates and its positive impact on the body can establish a seamless link between the mind and muscle coordination. Recently, the fitness sector has shifted Pilates towards a workout-focused program, moving away from its original emphasis on internal thoughtful movement.
What am I trying to say here? Experiencing the intensity in a workout session brings advantages, but Pilates was designed to promote alignment and balance in our bodies. When our body is properly aligned, we improve our performance in activities like standing, playing sports, and recovering from injuries or illnesses.
Recognizing your body's requirements is crucial in determining the most suitable Pilates class style for you. For instance, if you are dealing with persistent pain in your joints and muscles, it is essential for your body to alleviate tension and realign itself. This is a key aspect of your exercise routine, as engaging in fitness activities without addressing these issues could impede your recovery or worsen your discomfort.
Practicing Pilates regularly can improve pelvic floor health, reduce joint and back pain, lengthen, short tight muscles, improve circulation and lower blood pressure. Some fitness based classes can make these conditions worse, straining the pelvic floor, or putting too much pressure on joints. Nobody wants exercise to make them feel worse. Additionally, conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Osteoporosis, diabetes or MS can benefit from the thoughtful movements done in Pilates.
Attending my own Pilates classes, provides me with the opportunity to focus on my body's sensations and enhance mind-to-muscle connection. By being body aware during the movements, I am able to better understand my body's needs. The class leaves me feeling rejuvenated and invigorated every time. This is the experience I want my clients to have too! Come to class, and help manage the stress of daily life.
Spending an hour focusing on your body and mind for restoration is truly invaluable. As I've grown in my practice and teaching, I've come to appreciate the immense importance of connecting the mind and body. While you may still sweat in a Pilates class, the sense of fulfillment you experience far surpasses the feeling of pushing through a fitness-focused session with gritted teeth.
We don't stop exercising because we get old. We get old when we stop exercising. It doesn't have to be painful. The "no pain, no gain" philosophy doesn't support a healthy, balanced body, ideology. Instead think of your exercise class as a place to reconnect, build muscles that are long and strong, not short and tight.
I know some of you may think this sounds like a lame approach to exercise. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with going to a physically focused class; Rather add a Pilates class that will focus on Alignment, Balance and Core connection. You will feel the difference. Think of exercise as an investment in your health and wellness. Feeling good, builds confidence and confidence looks good on everyone.
As always, I'm happy to connect with you if you have any questions about starting an exercise program. Coaching people on how to move well and feel great is one of my greatest joys! I want you to experience the same joy in your movement practice!
Comments