Whilst Pilates isn’t so good at building muscle bulk or power, what it is great at is utilising your postural muscles. These are deep muscles that tend to be closer to the skeleton that hold us up against gravity and provide stability around the joints whilst we are moving.
Focusing on bringing yoga to a demographic that wouldn't normally see the benefits of a method of training that incorporates breathing while moving into postures that build strength, balance, flexibility, and mental focus.
If you answered “Yes” to either of these questions, it's time to call us and schedule an appointment with one of our qualified Physical Therapists. We will interview you, identify your problem, create a customized plan, and work with you personally to achieve your health goals.
Unlike traditional workouts that mainly target superficial muscles, Pilates works on stabilizing muscles like the transverse abdominis, multifidus, and pelvic floor muscles.
If you have a layer of fat covering those muscles, then they won’t be as visible – giving the appearance of being “untoned”.
So, how does it actually reshape the body? And how long does it take to see results? Let’s dive into the science behind it.
Start to spin the tailbone up to the sky and peel each vertebra off the mat until the hips are lifted in line with the lower ribs. Articulate the spine back down to the mat.
If you’re new to Pilates, aim for 2-3 times a week to start and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the exercises (5). If you have specific areas of your body that you want to tone, consider targeting those muscles more frequently within your weekly routine.
Our instructors incorporate targeted stretches and full-range movements designed to lengthen tight muscles and enhance joint mobility. Proper stretching keeps muscles pliable and joints fluid, reducing stiffness and risk of strains or sprains. Consistent Pilates helps reopen tight hips, improve hamstring and lower back flexibility, and restore mobility for increased agility and ease of motion.
Ultimately, finding what works best for your body and lifestyle is key – whether that’s Pilates or the gym or a combination of both.
“Pilates works the body as a whole,” agrees Folkard. “Rather than isolating one or two muscle groups, it encourages two-way stretch and strengthening moves that engage many different muscles, creating a balanced workout and increasing muscle mass.”
This is known as neuromuscular adaptation. Firing up your muscles in this way is likely to make you feel different and you may grand rapids pilates experience this as a feeling of being stronger.
Pilates is renowned for enhancing athletic performance, expediting injury recovery, and helping adults maintain their best selves through middle age and beyond. Here are three targeted benefits our clients experience from consistent Pilates training:
While not traditionally used for weight loss, Pilates can accelerate fat loss and refine your shape as part of a comprehensive lifestyle plan. Muscle conditioning boosts your metabolism while core engagement and breathing teach mindfulness and self-regulation skills that reduce stress hormones and emotional eating triggers. Pilates perfectly complements a clean eating regimen for safe, sustainable weight loss.