Pilates is a popular exercise method that focuses on using the body’s own resistance to strengthen and tone muscles. It’s often used to help with back pain, but it can be beneficial for many other conditions as well. Pilates Northern Beaches also gave some important tips for beginners.
The Pilates Advantage program focuses on safe and effective exercises for beginners. The program includes three levels of workbooks to help you progress at your own pace and offers tips for making the most of your Pilates sessions.
The following are some tips from the third level of the Pilates Advantage program:
Find a good instructor. Good instructors will have experience working with clients who have similar health problems or limitations as you do. They should also be friendly and knowledgeable about their craft. You may want to ask friends and family if they know of a good instructor in your area before looking online or going to local gyms or health clubs.
Take care when choosing equipment and clothing. You may want to invest in a mat, foam roller, stability ball and other equipment before starting your first session if possible, but these items are not required for all exercises in this program. You should wear clothing that allows you to move freely during each exercise without straining any part of your body.
Get professional help. If you’re new to Pilates, it’s best to start with a professional. A good instructor will teach you proper positioning and technique, which can make all the difference in getting results.
Work on your breathing. In Pilates, breathing is just as important as the movements themselves. Focus on using your diaphragm to breathe deeply into your belly rather than just shallowly into your chest — this will help you breathe properly during exercise and keep your spine aligned throughout each movement.
Don’t overdo it! It’s tempting to push yourself too hard when you’re trying something new, but it’s better to start off slow and build up gradually over time than try to do too much too soon and risk injury from overdoing it.
Don’t forget about strength training! Pilates doesn’t work every muscle in the body — that’s why people often pair it with other forms of exercise like running or weightlifting when they’re trying to reach their fitness goals.
If you’re new to Pilates, there are some things you should know before starting a class. Here are some tips for beginners:
Consult Your Doctor
Pilates is low impact and safe for most people, but it’s always best to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. Your doctor can help determine if Pilate exercises are right for you.
Choose The Right Equipment
Don’t worry about having fancy equipment; all you need is a mat or carpeted floor and something sturdy to hold on to when standing poses are taught (like a chair or wall). A Pilates ball can be helpful for some exercises as well. If possible, rent equipment from your studio or buy used gear online rather than buying new equipment at full price from an exercise store because it will save money in the long run.
Start slow. It’s easy to get overexcited about Pilates, but you want to start with the basics and work your way up. Start with exercises that are easier and more basic and build from there as you get stronger and more comfortable with the movements.
Pay attention to your breath. In Pilates, breathing is important because it helps you maintain control over your body. Focus on inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth while performing each exercise.
Don’t push too hard. Pushing too hard can cause muscle strains or injuries, so focus on doing each move slowly and with control rather than speed or strength.
Focus on form first, then intensity. You should always perform an exercise correctly before increasing its intensity or doing more repetitions of the exercise; otherwise, you could hurt yourself by doing something incorrectly!