A Bit of a Stretch

I've been in a gym and played sports my whole life, with heavy weights and machines being a major portion of that workout. As I got older, I needed a refresh in my fitness journey with more focus on core strength and flexibility in where I can workout. I started with yoga and eventually added in Pilates and it has since been my favorite workout.

Pilates was originally called 'Contrology' and was developed by Joseph Pilates in 1880. He crafted these workouts due to multiple illnesses (Asthma, Rheumatic Fever, etc.) and eventually cured himself while gaining an amazing physique. The strengthening of your body solely by itself brings inner mental peace while also giving proper alignment and strength to all muscles.

As I began doing these workouts, I noticed that my body was nowhere near where I thought it was overall. Although this is considered a low impact exercise, I was moving muscles I never used before. After my first attempt.. I was beat, but mentally I felt more refreshed than I ever had been. Introducing this into my weekly workout routine has changed my mind and body all around. See below for the benefits you can also add by incorporating Pilates in your routine:

Physical

- Increased flexibility and balance (especially in your core, back, and legs)

- Improved core (this is what makes your whole body inside and out go!)

- Better breathing (helps with stress & awareness)

- Total body strength (stabilizes all muscles)

- Reduces menstrual pain (for my ladies!)

Mental

- Empowerment and grace (own your body & mind)

- Mood boosting (exercise that aids in treatment for anxiety & depression)

- Stimulates endorphins and gives a euphoric feeling each time

- Increases energy & brain function

So grab your mat and get to it! A great thing about this workout is it can be done at home. Here are some Pilates instructors we've been viewing recently: