What is Pilates?

Pilates has been around for a long time. It has been popular for about 10 years, and I’m sure you’ve heard about it! The thing is that lots of people haven’t actually tried Pilates, and it’s become one of those things you might not want to ask about because you think you should already know!

So what do you do in Pilates class?

Pilates is mostly done on the ground on a mat. A lot of time is spent on your back, and there are some routines during a class that are done on your stomach or on your side. Pretty basic rundown there!

Pilates is not an easy workout. It is a low-impact workout that won’t make you sweat buckets, but it isn’t really easy. Most people can do Pilates, and there are different levels so it’s always challenging no matter where you’re at fitness-wise. Some instructors teach all levels together, and some teach beginner, intermediate and advanced classes. In my classes I teach all abilities and use a level system, I demonstrate the exercises with level one, level two and level three options.

Check if you need to bring your own mat. Most classes will have at least some spare ones. Pilates is done without shoes so no need to bring trainers. Make sure you wear clothes that are comfortable to move in.

Each Pilates instructor and Pilates ‘method’ will have a slightly different take on how their classes run, but Pilates is much more similar between methods than yoga.

I teach a couple of Pilates classes per week here in Nelson and I love it. Pilates classes are the perfect complement to Zumba fitness classes. Zumba gives you a great cardio and a whole lot of fun, and Pilates gives you strength, stability and balance. Pilates is also great for stretching out muscles that might get stiff and sore from your fitness activities. Pilates will help you to build and maintain core strength and stability. This will help your posture, and will improve your body awareness, strength, and safety for other fitness classes.

Check out a Pilates class in your area today, just say hi to the instructor, make sure she knows you’re new, and don’t hide! It’s important that the instructor can see you so she can make sure you are doing the movements correctly.

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