Pilates is one of those exercises that has been around forever but never seems to go out of fashion. There are good reasons for that: Pilates is incredibly effective in toning your body and improving your overall fitness levels. It was created by Joseph Pilates and is designed to strengthen the core and lengthen the muscles. While often used by dancers and athletes, pilates can benefit anyone.
The first thing people think about when they hear pilates is basic mat exercises. However, there can be so much more to it than that. One of the best things about pilates is that a wide variety of exercises and equipment can intensify the workout and target different areas of the body. If you’re looking for a challenging and fun activity, read on to learn seven reasons why you should consider adding some pilates exercise equipment to your routine.
What is some pilates exercise equipment?
Pilates with equipment is an excellent way to increase the intensity of your workout. Which equipment you use is determined by how rigorous you want your workout to be. Here are a few types of equipment you can consider for different purposes:
There are many ways to achieve balance in your workout routine. Stability and Bosu balls are great for beginners who want to build stability and core strength. Resistance bands, free weights, and kettlebells provide a challenge for more experienced athletes who are looking to push themselves further. For those wanting a low-impact workout, consider an exercise ball. And finally, blocks can be used for assistance or added resistance.
7 Reasons why you should add equipment to your pilates routine
Anyone who has done a Pilates class knows that the equipment can be daunting. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize that the equipment is there to help you deepen and intensify your practice. It is also a fantastic way to mix things up and keep them interesting. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize that the equipment is there to help you deepen and intensify your practice. Here are seven reasons why you should add equipment to your pilates routine:
#1 Strengthen Your Core
When it comes to working out, Pilates is often thought of as a gentler alternative to more vigorous exercises like running or weightlifting. However, don’t be fooled – Pilates can be a powerful workout tool, especially when it comes to strengthening your core. A strong core is essential for good posture and balance and can help prevent injuries.
The best way to strengthen your core with Pilates is to add dumbbells or kettlebells to your exercise. These weight-bearing exercises help target the deep abdominal muscles often neglected by traditional crunches or sit-ups by adding resistance to the movement. It can also help sculpt your abs and obliques.
In addition, using dumbbells or kettlebells in your Pilates routine can help to increase the intensity of your workout and take you to the next level, giving you even more benefits. So next time you’re looking for a way to boost your fitness routine, reach for some dumbbells or kettlebells. You might be surprised at just how effective it can be.
#2 Full Body Workout
Pilates is a form of exercise that emphasizes controlled movement and proper form. Unlike traditional strength-training methods focusing on isolated muscle groups, pilates exercises engage the whole body, providing a well-rounded workout.
With the help of specialized equipment like resistance bands and stability balls, you can take your workout to the next level. Adding extra resistance to essential exercises like the plank or push-up can engage more muscle groups and challenge your body in new ways.
You can also use equipment to target specific areas of the body that you want to work on. For example, if you want to tone your inner thighs, try adding a resistance band around your ankles while doing leg lifts. Pilates is a great way to get a full-body workout; adding equipment can help you take it to the next level.
#3 Challenge Your Balance and Coordination
Trying to stay fit is a balancing act – quite literally. Pilates exercises are designed to improve balance and coordination by challenging your body in new ways. With the help of equipment like Bosu balls and stability balls, you can take your balance and coordination to the next level. The ball’s instability forces you to engage your core muscles and maintain good form while performing the exercise.
For example, try doing some push-ups on a stability ball – it’ll work your core muscles as you strive to keep the ball from rolling away. Or, if you’re looking for a real challenge, try doing a one-legged squat on a bosu. Not only will it test your balance and coordination, but it’ll also give your legs a good workout. So, next time you want to add a little extra challenge to your activity, reach for a stability ball or bosu.
#4 Improve Your Flexibility
Flexibility is often considered a strictly physical quality, but it can also be mental. Flexibility in your thinking can help you see different solutions to problems and adapt to change. However, when most people think of flexibility, they refer to the physical ability to move joints through their full range of motion. This flexibility is essential for overall health and well-being and can be improved through stretching exercises such as Pilates.
Pilates is a fantastic way to improve your flexibility. The controlled movements and focused breathing help to lengthen and stretch your muscles, and the various exercises ensure that all muscle groups are worked.
You can use equipment to help improve your flexibility in several ways. For example, yoga blocks can support your body in positions where you might otherwise not be able to maintain good form. This helps you get a deeper stretch, leading to improved flexibility.
You can also use a yoga strap to help with stretching exercises. By looping the strap around your foot and holding on to the ends, you can add resistance to the stretch, which can help to improve your range of motion.
#5 Improve Posture and Alignment
Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing your spine perfectly aligned, your shoulders pulled back, and your head held high. Now imagine maintaining that posture all day long without any discomfort or pain.
Regular mat exercise can help to lengthen and strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improving your posture over time. In addition, the use of props such as blocks and resistance bands can help to release muscle tension and encourage proper alignment. You can see a noticeable difference in your posture and alignment with just a few minutes of exercise each day. Pilates equipment is an effective way to improve your health and appearance.
#6 Increase Stamina and Endurance
For those who like to push their limits in the gym, one of the best ways to increase our stamina and endurance is by using pilates equipment. The main benefits of pilates are its low-impact exercises and its ability to target specific muscle groups. Using pilates equipment, we can specifically target the muscles we want to work on and make them stronger and more resilient.
Additionally, the low-impact nature of pilates means we can work out for longer without putting too much strain on our bodies. As a result, we can gradually increase our stamina and endurance without putting ourselves at risk of injury.
#7 De-stress and Relax your mind and body
The popularity of Pilates has exploded in recent years as more and more people are discovering the many benefits of this low-impact workout. While most people associate Pilates with mat work, the use of equipment can also be beneficial.
Besides providing a more challenging workout, it can also help to improve mental health and spirit. As you move rhythmically and breathe deeply, you’ll calm your mind, while props will increase your body awareness and improve your coordination. As a result, it can be a great way to reduce stress and enhance well-being.
Wrap up
Incorporating Pilates into your workout routine is an excellent option if you’re looking for a challenging and effective way to get in shape with added benefits. It is a great way to improve your fitness, health and well-being.
But if you want to target specific areas of your body, adding resistance can help maximize the benefits of this exercise. You can take your Pilates practice to the next level using blocks, bands, and props. Give it a try today!
