Pilates For Improved Flexibility & Strength

Whether you’ve seen videos when scrolling through your Instagram feed or heard recommendations from friends, Pilates has become the latest health and fitness must-try workout. Although Pilates has gained immense popularity recently, it might surprise you that the exercise dates back to the early 1900s! 

Developed by Joseph Pilates in 1926, Pilates has been proven highly effective in improving flexibility, strength, balance, posture and overall mental health. But like trying any new workout, ensuring it’s the right fit for your training style is important. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of reformer Pilates and how you can get maximum results from this kind of exercise.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a mind-body exercise system that emphasises core strength, flexibility and controlled movements. Combining elements from gymnastics, yoga and martial arts, Pilates focuses on developing a strong core while promoting whole-body alignment and efficient movement patterns.

While a basic form of Pilates can be performed with a mat and a pair of resistance bands, a Pilates reformer machine is highly effective in ensuring a total body workout. A reformer consists of a sliding carriage, a set of adjustable springs and various attachments that allow for a wide range of exercises. Users can customise the intensity and target specific muscle groups by adjusting the spring tension and utilising different attachments.

Challenge your body and heal your mind — four benefits of regular Pilates training

Whether using a simple yoga mat or a Pilates machine with all the bells and whistles, Pilates is a workout that challenges the body and mind. Let’s explore some of the benefits a standard Pilates workout can deliver. 

Enhanced flexibility and strength

One of the key benefits of regular Pilates training is improved flexibility. By targeting muscles and joints through specific exercises, Pilates enhances your range of motion and lengthens tight muscles. Additionally, Pilates helps build strength, particularly in the core, which includes the deep abdominal muscles, back muscles and pelvic floor.

Better balance and posture

Pilates exercises focus on developing balanced muscle strength and alignment, ultimately improving balance and posture. By targeting the larger and smaller muscles, Pilates helps correct muscular imbalances and promotes optimal body alignment, leading to better posture, reduced strain on joints and enhanced overall balance and stability.

Improved mental health

Pilates is not just a physical exercise — it also provides numerous mental health benefits. The mindful nature of Pilates, emphasising focus and concentration, promotes a sense of relaxation and reduces stress. The controlled breathing techniques utilised in Pilates help calm the mind, increase mindfulness and promote overall mental well-being. In fact, regular Pilates practice has been associated with improved mood, reduced anxiety levels and increased mental clarity.

Increased muscle tone and definition 

Beyond flexibility, strength, balance and improved mental health, Pilates is also highly effective in sculpting the body. As Pilates targets multiple muscle groups, when combined with a nutritious, balanced diet, Pilates works to improve muscle tone and definition throughout the body.

Attending classes vs owning your own reformer 

While regularly attending Pilates classes can provide expert guidance and the chance to connect with other Pilates enthusiasts, it can take a toll on your budget, as Pilates classes tend to be more expensive than regular gym classes. 

Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced Pilates lover, by owning your own Pilates reformer machine, you’ll benefit from a one-off investment and develop your training from the comfort of your own home. And if you’re looking for a leading distributor of Pilates machines in Australia, look no further than Pilates World.

Pilates World — premium and affordable Pilates machines in Australia

Pilates is undeniably a remarkable workout method that offers many benefits for the body and mind. Through its focus on core strength, flexibility, balance and posture, Pilates helps individuals achieve optimal physical fitness and overall well-being. 

Purchasing a Pilates reformer is a serious investment, so opting for a leading and respected distributor is essential. Pilates World is one of Australia’s biggest suppliers and importers of reformers and Pilates health equipment, stocking a wide range of reputable brands to meet the needs of every customer.