A Beginner’s Guide to Pilates

As defined by Healthline, Pilates is a challenging low impact exercise method that balances strength with mobility, aligns the body, fine-tunes movement patterns, and strengthens the deeper muscles of the core. It works the deep muscle layers, creating long and lean muscles. Because it is also low impact, pilates is suitable for those with injuries or health problems. However, just because it is low impact, it does not mean low intensity. In fact, because you are engaging the deep muscle layer, the exercises are often very challenging. Although pilates is often promoted by females, it is important to know that pilates is for everyone, regardless of gender, age, or lifestyle. If you are still hesitant to try pilates, here are some benefits to persuade you.

1. Increased flexibility and mobility

Pilates uses a wide range of motion, and engages the full body. This helps improve your flexibility and mobility. As teenagers, we are often found sitting all day in front of our screens. By doing pilates, you can gain more flexibility and mobility. 

2. Decreased Stress

Pilates, similar to yoga, puts an emphasis on body awareness. By connecting with your body, you can decrease your stress. It also incorporates deep breathing techniques, which can also help decrease your stress levels. 

3. Improved Posture

Pilates works the small, deep muscles in your body. It is crucial to strengthen these muscles in order for your body to be properly aligned. Like mentioned before, this is important for teenagers, who are often criticized for having bad posture. 

4. It prevents injuries

Pilates works to balance the muscles in your body. Balanced muscles, meaning that they are neither too loose or tight, lessens the likelihood of injury. It also helps you build dynamic strength so you are able to stabilize your joints when performing. This makes pilates very beneficial for athletes. 

5. Improves sleep

We’ve all spent restless nights where our eyelids are drooping yet we can’t seem to fall asleep. Pilates can help with that. Studies have found that pilates can improve your sleep, and helps make you fall asleep faster. This was found to be especially true for those under 40 years of age. 

Are you ready to try pilates now? Well, lucky for you, Calgary has many excellent pilates studios! Here are a few to get you started. 

1. Junction 9 Yoga & Pilates

A joint yoga and pilates studio, Junction 9 offers both group and private classes. They also have pilates workshops for you to try. Visit them online at https://junction9.ca/ .

2. Calgary Pilates

Calgary Pilates is one of the few STOTT PILATES certified studios in Calgary. They also have physiotherapy, which is perfect for athletes! Their website is https://calgarypilates.com/. 

3. Club Pilates

Club Pilates has something for everyone. It has nine programs with different levels, so you can choose which level you would like to try. Find them online at https://www.clubpilates.com/en-us/. 

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