What You Need to Know Before Starting Pilates
You've probably heard of Pilates, as it has become increasingly popular in recent years, and you may be wondering if it suits your lifestyle. If your fitness routine feels a bit boring or stagnant, trying a new class can give you some motivation and a fresh boost.
Pilates is not just for athletes, highly fit individuals, or fitness enthusiasts; in fact, Pilates prides itself on being the opposite: accessible and suitable for everyone, regardless of your gender, age, size, or fitness level. Pilates is a fun and accessible method for strengthening muscle groups, improving balance, flexibility, and posture. If you're new to Pilates, here's what you should know before you begin.
Some Pilates Terms to Know
Before attending your first Pilates class, there are a few terms you should know to keep up with the pace and stay in sync with the rest of the class.
Don’t worry, we’ve prepared a little list for you:
- Your powerhouse: your deep muscles (abdominals and trunk muscles), the center of your body that enables movement and maintaining an upright posture.
- Peeling through your spine: a slow, controlled movement from vertebra to vertebra.
- Cradling your head in your hands: supporting your head by placing it in your hands, which helps support the cervical spine.
- Tucking your chin toward your chest: gently pulling your chin towards your chest to activate your deep abdominal muscles and relieve pressure from your neck and shoulders.
- Sliding your shoulder blades down: pulling your shoulder blades downward and backward, which helps open the chest and relax the shoulders.
Don't worry, you'll get used to these terms over time! But knowing them in advance will help you feel more comfortable during your first Pilates class.
Wear the Right Clothing for Comfort
While loose workout clothes are fine, for Pilates, it's better to choose more form-fitting attire. This allows your instructor to better see your movements and prevents your clothes from getting caught in the springs or other equipment, especially if you're doing a Reformer Pilates class (the Pilates machine).
Pilates Can Be Done at Home
You don't need to leave your home to practice Pilates! Whether you're a busy mom, an overloaded student, or just someone with a tight schedule who doesn’t want to commute to a class, Pilates can easily be practiced at home. All you need are some online tutorials and simple equipment, like a multifunctional Pilates bar.
So, don't hesitate: Pilates is practical, flexible, and accessible, no matter where you are.