INTRO TO PILATES

As Joseph Pilates once said, “You will feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20 sessions and have a completely new body in 30 sessions.”.

Yes, Pilates looks quite easy and it is a low-impact routine but it is proven to be one of the most effective and challenging way of developing core strength and stability when done correctly. As Pilates connects your breath to the exercise, it encourages you to breathe from your stomach instead of your chest. Since you are focused on breathing deeply, your mind benefits from this mindfulness which helps you relax by reducing your stress levels.

The goal of a Pilates class is to strengthen the body’s “powerhouse” – namely the abdominals, the lower back muscles, the pelvic floor, hips and glutes. Your breath plays a big part in Pilates as well. After a couple of sessions of Pilates, you’ll start to be more aware of your body and your posture when you’re sitting, standing or moving. You’ll be able to realise how the body aches and injuries occur and how to prevent it.

Although it uses small movements to improve balance and core strength, it teaches you how to control and use your muscles. Pilates is able to balance the sides of your body to create postural symmetry, ultimately preventing uneven stress patterns on back joints and spinal discs. That’s where the aches come from!

But do take note! Pilates is merely to complement your other exercise routines. It does not count as a cardiovascular workout because it is less intensive. It isn’t a substitute for personalised strength training and is definitely not an overnight miracle major calories burner.

This workout builds, sculpts and tones your muscles, creating a long and lean look. Pilates focuses on deeper muscles in each and every move you make. That is why when it comes to core-strengthening, Pilates is the way to go. Pilates creates stronger cores which makes you less susceptible to injuries and improves your posture in the long run.

Teacher Sonal will be conducting an Introduction to Pilates workshop at Suntec City studio on 3 March 2018 from 11AM – 12NN. Want to look leaner and taller and flaunt a flat tummy? Register below!