It can be used for general health and fitness, rehabilitation, or muscle improvement, and as such, Pilates is regarded as a positive health and conditioning practice all over the world. You may be familiar with some of the common benefits associated with Pilates, but did you know the effects of following a program can go far beyond toning and strengthening muscle?
Here are some of the other lesser-known effects of Pilates:
1. Back pain
A high proportion of people will suffer from back pain at some stage of their life. Pilates can be effective at targeting muscles that stabilize the back and can build strength in abdominal muscles and pelvic areas that support and balance the spine.
A range of exercise and body movements can help to reduce the release of cortisol and actually fight the effects of stress or depression. A focus on breathing can help with the regulation of emotions and create a calmer more attuned state.
With the coordination and alignment gained from whole-body exercises, Pilates helps with balance. This can be extremely helpful for older people or those who are regaining function after injury.
A series of strengthening exercises combined with good breathing practices can help the body to maintain a better immune system. Pilates exercises help to improve resistance and boost circulation which in turn supports things like the lymphatic system.
Engaging in a regular Pilates routine can reduce mental fog and lead to clearer thinking. Cognitive function can benefit from better circulation and blood flow, leading to improved clarity, learning, and memory.
Leaner, stronger muscles, and improved flexibility in limbs and joints can lead to stronger sports performance. Competitive athletes may experience better speed and strength when participating in sports or games. Pilates can also improve reaction time and speed up responses.
7. Better Sleep
Adding Pilates to your daily or weekly exercise routine can actually help you to sleep better and enjoy restful sleep for longer. Serotonin and endorphins are released during workouts and sleep may be more restful and peaceful.
Bone density and osteoporosis can cause problems as we age. Pilates exercises can keep people moving better with increased flexibility and some studies show that regular participants in Pilates have improved their bone density.
The mood-boosting effects of Pilates are well documented, as well as combatting things like depression, the release of endorphins achieved during Pilates can help to remove negative thought patterns and reduce anxiety.
Pilates actively targets muscle groups to release, lengthen, and promote better flexibility. With mobility and strength improvements, resistance to injury is naturally enhanced, and Pilates followers are less likely to experience injuries from sports or accidents. Being in close touch with the body’s signals can help to prevent things like overexertion.
One of the less well-known benefits of performing Pilates routines is better motivation. Pilates exercises can increase your internal drive and create more self-awareness. The need for external validation may diminish and Pilates practitioners may find that they rely more on inward reflection.
Any form of exercise or movement is helpful for supporting weight goals, but Pilates helps by bringing people in touch with their own body’s needs and wants. Listening to the body’s internal language can help with resisting the urge to overeat or eat unhealthy food.
