What I learnt from a 20-class Pilates Challenge?

I started practicing Pilates almost 15 years ago...and I love it!!

For those who are not familiar with the method, in a few words, Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise based on strengthening the body, promoting the power and control of our mind. Recently, I completed a Pilates Challenge which consisted of 20 classes over the course of 40 days. Let me tell you, the results were fantastic!!

Not only the physical results; I could see how my body became stronger and more flexible, but also the expansion of my self-awareness, my new state of consciousness, helping me with stress management and winding down.

Today, I want to share 3 key benefits that practicing pilates from 2-3 times a week has on my daily work routine:

1. Helps prevent injuries

Pilates not only achieves greater awareness and posture but also gains capacity and range of movement, physical strength (especially in the core) and helps prevent injuries such as contractures, back pain, neck pain, and shoulder injuries.

TIP 1 Listen to your body & focus: A good Pilates workout requires you to be mindfully focused on each and every movement and exercise. It makes you stop and think about what you are doing. By focusing on the mind, regulating your breathing, and making use of internal resistance is an extremely powerful way to tone the body.

2. Manage stress

When a person begins to have good postural habits, they gain strength and flexibility and their physical condition is better. In-turn, stress decreases, concentration increases and overall vitality and self-esteem is nurtured. In other words, Pilates is a great way to relax the body, mind and breath.

TIP 2 Make Pilates Part of Your Routine: I’ve noticed that practicing pilates at my lunch time also helps me to break the day and have a more productive afternoon!!

3. Pushing yourself mentally and physically

Another characteristic of the Pilates method is that it puts the body in a constant challenge, as it is based on putting yourself into unstable postures and challenging your body by moving your limbs.

TIP 3 Start Slow: Just because pilates is considered low-impact exercise does not mean it’s easy! I suggest starting with a couple of beginner classes and move from there. Choosing the right class is key. Take the time to learn everything properly!

Bonus TIP: Wear comfy clothes & stay hydrated.

Finally, this experience has shown me that participating in a fitness challenge is a great way to start making progress, as it provides a simple structure to help you consistently move forward towards an end date or a specific goal.

What more excuses do you need to hit the mat?

Team Contributor: Giannina Chiavetta
Get in touch: giannina.chiavetta@arrowvane.com | Linkedin
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