Pilates is a great way to keep in shape this September…

When it comes to getting fit, there are always two peak periods of the year where people are looking to get in shape. The obvious one is January. New Year, new me, of course.

However slightly unexpectedly, the other peak time is September, right before the start of the autumn. With the kids back in school, many parents can enjoy some additional free time and are looking to spend that keeping fit and healthy. Pilates is a very popular way of doing that.

Here’s why Pilates is a great way to keep in shape this September…

The Benefits of Pilates

Pilates is now officially acknowledged by the NHS as a form of physiotherapy. A Pilates class can go a long way to helping prevent injury, particular in the lower back and joints.

Pilates is a fitness system that improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. Pilates helps develop core strength, better posture, leaner muscles and a strong back. All-important for developing and creating a healthier lifestyle.

A Pilates routine will help to work all of the key muscle groups in particular the deep core muscles in the stomach and lower back. Most regular gym sessions will not achieve this and that’s what makes Pilates a good addition to a workout plan.

It’s also very low risk in terms of hurting yourself further. It’s a low impact exercise and this is why it is suitable for anyone new to exercise or recovering from an injury.

What Pilates classes are there?

Pilates Matwork Classes

The most popular form of Pilates is matwork. Matwork is a more traditional form of Pilates, which as it has been developed has incorporated the use of equipment such as balls, stretch bands, foam rollers or magic circles. It uses controlled breathing techniques during weight-resisted movement to help build core strength.

High Intensity Power Pilates

HIP Pilates is a more dynamic form of Pilates that combines the precision and focus of a traditional Pilates session with the dynamic energy of a high intensity workout.

Combining core strength, balance and coordination with an energetic cardiovascular element HIP Pilates is the answer to many people’s search for a functional ‘feel good’ workout.

Power Pilates is most suitable for those who are injury free though, anyone with knee or hip problems would benefit hugely from the precise nature of the weight-bearing lunges and squats. Emphasis is on tracking the knees over toes at all times, therefore strengthening the quads.
The class is fast paced, but importantly LOW impact. Therefore you will increase your heart rate safely whilst burning fat, strengthening your lungs and building lean muscle mass. The class also uses light hand weights, which improve bone health.

One-to-One Pilates Classes

Concerned about being the new student? Then a one-to-one class can be a good way to start. It can also be useful if you have a specific injury that you are aiming to overcome using Pilates. Both the session format and the exercises given are tailored to suit your needs and objectives. These sessions allow for greater progression and development and are a must for anyone requiring that individual attention.

Pilates is for life and can be life changing, so take some me-time and join a Pilates class now!