5
PLAY
Reasons
YOU SHOULD BE
Doing Pilates
by Heather Burgoyne, Owner, Soar Pilates IT’S FOR EVERY BODY Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, just starting to exercise or somewhere in between, Pilates is for everyone. It’s also great for those recovering from injury as a form of rehabilitation. It is a suitable exercise for those being proactive with aging and preventing injuries considering our slowing metabolism, compromised balance, bone density issues and stiffness in joints.
BENEFITS ARE ENDLESS Pilates is a low-impact workout that can increase strength, flexibility, mobility and more. When you are strengthening and building muscle in concentric movement, as you begin to release that movement, your muscle automatically starts to go into eccentric movement beginning to stretch the muscle back out. Pilates also can target smaller muscle groups, which can benefit mobility in joints such as hips and shoulders.
When we get into more cardio workouts, such as jump board, we are able to target endurance and fast twitch muscles. And likely one of the most notable benefits from doing Pilates is we are able to strengthen the core in almost every exercise, meaning you don’t have to do 1,000 situps a day.
MIND, BODY, SOUL Pilates requires small, focused and controlled movement, making it perfect for switching off and turning inward with what’s really going on in your body and in your mind. To note a few of the foundational Pilates principles: concentration, centering, whole body, movement, breath and rhythm and flow.
IT’S VERSATILE There’s a style for everyone — we love mat Pilates as it is a true test to your own strength as it is just you and the mat. Reformer Pilates is so beneficial as the spring tension works to challenge the body and build strength, but it also can act as an assist as it gives you something to work against to help come into an exercise. The key point here: There is a modification for every exercise and an advancement for every exercise so the movements never become sedentary.
IT’S SUSTAINABLE Exercise that’s sustainable and enjoyable will always give you the best results. Pilates is a form of exercise you can incorporate multiple times a week, without burnout or overstressing the body.
PRESCOTT HEALTHY LIVING | VOL . 3 , NO. 8 2 9
