Have You Tried Pilates? If Not, Here’s Why You Should
When looking for a new workout to try, it can be difficult finding something you’ll like that will hold many benefits as well. Not to mention, adjusting exercises to your own fitness level can be challenging as well. Lastly, working out at home can be a challenge in itself. What can you do at home without any equipment other than a yoga mat? Pilates! If you’re someone who hasn’t tried Pilates and is wondering if they should, we’re going to discuss just why Pilates is so great for everyone.
It Improves Your Memory
In our early 20s, most of us begin losing roughly 1% of the volume of our hippocampus – a portion of the brain responsible for memory and cognitive function. Quite literally, our brains are shrinking. However, our brains are also capable of creating new cells. Doing so means better memory, lower risk of Alzheimer’s, better problem-solving, and even a higher IQ. Several studies have proven that exercising improves neurogenesis – creating new brain cells – and helps protect existing cells. In fact, a study has found that people have even better brain function after mindful exercises such as yoga or Pilates.
It Relieves Stress and Tension
Pilates relieves tension built up in the muscle through gentle and gradual conditioning. The muscle work required combined with the stretching built into the workout will help you release tensions anywhere in the body while strengthening it and relaxing all at once.
It Develops Core Strength
The core muscles of the body are those muscles deep in the abdomen, back, and pelvic floor. We all rely on these muscles to support and strong back, good posture, and efficient movement patterns. When the core is strong, the body’s frame is more supported. Your neck and shoulders can relax, and the rest of your muscles and joints are free to do their job. A little bonus of a strong core is a flatter stomach.
It Increases Flexibility
When doing Pilates, you tend to work toward a safe increase in length and stretch of the muscles as well as the range of motion within the joints. You don’t have to delve in too deeply when it comes to exercises meaning that it won’t be too overwhelming for beginners.
It Increases Energy
It does sound like a paradox, but the more you exercise, the more energy you’ll have. And the more energized you are, the more you’ll want to exercise. Pilates is a workout that gets the breath and circulation going, stimulates the spine and muscle, and releases endorphins like all exercises do. Pilates is considered to be cardio! It might not pack the same punch as running, but it does include cardiovascular exercise. It’s a win-win situation.
It Improves Your Posture
As we’ve mentioned, Pilates focuses on the core muscles a lot. This leads to improved posture. Since the workout maintains good alignment and balance while slowly moving through the movements, it makes sense that it will help you sit and stand tall the rest of the time too.
