Why is Pilates recommended for everyone? – Part 2

In our previous article, you learned about five benefits of Pilates – but the list continues!

First, however, here's an interesting fact – did you know that Cameron Diaz prepared for her role in the movie Charlie's Angels with the help of Pilates?

Let's see why stars like Diaz, or even Kate Hudson, Sandra Bullock, and Gwyneth Paltrow choose Pilates!

• Pilates corrects posture.

Correct posture is only possible if the core muscles are strong enough. Good posture means that our spine and joints are in a neutral position. In this position, there is the least tension in the body, and in the long term, it helps prevent wear and tear caused by poor posture.

Its positive effect on posture makes Pilates ideal for alleviating back pain.

• Pilates increases energy levels.

Here's a real paradox – the more you exercise, the more energy you'll have. How is this possible? After all, it's well-known that exercise is also good for releasing excess energy.

Pilates stimulates blood circulation and breathing, invigorates the spine and muscles, and floods the body with happiness hormones. All of this contributes to us feeling more energetic after Pilates. This is why Pilates also stands its ground as a complement to other forms of exercise. However, if you don't have time for a full workout, even 5 minutes of Pilates will make you feel an increase in your energy level.

• Pilates helps with weight loss.

If you do Pilates regularly and persistently, your body will change. You will have longer, stronger muscles, you will be slimmer overall, and your posture will improve, all of which will allow you to move more gracefully. This will make you appear much thinner even if the number on the scale hasn't changed.

If you want to lose weight, the rule is simple – burn more calories than you consume. Pilates will help you with this. And if you combine it with some fat-burning activity, you will get a fantastic tool.

• Pilates enhances mindfulness.

It's no coincidence that Joseph Pilates called Pilates "Contrology." According to him, Pilates is "the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit." This is what makes Pilates so special – every exercise requires full attention. When we focus solely on the movements, our brain and body unite. This is how most of the positive effects of Pilates can be achieved.

The core principles of Pilates – centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow – are the main factors in the complete integration of body and mind.

• There are many ways to do Pilates.

Today, it's extremely easy to find a Pilates instructor. Not only is the internet full of them, but you can also find them in gyms and various studios. Compared to a few decades ago when only a handful of people knew the secrets of Pilates, today there are many qualified instructors. If you are an absolute beginner, it is worth seeking out a professional, as this is the most effective way to learn the basics. Once you have mastered these, you can even exercise at home – for simpler exercises, you only need a Pilates mat (which differs from a yoga mat in that it is slightly thicker).

So you have many options – you can do it at home or in a studio, alone or in a group, on a mat or a Reformer, for 5 minutes or an hour. The choice is yours!

Pilates has more than just ten benefits. However, if we wanted to list every single benefit, the article would never end. That's why, for example, you didn't find more restful sleep on the list, even though that is also a significant benefit.

Well, what's the verdict? Is it worth trying Pilates? We think so. Try it and discover what else was left off our list!