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Pilates is all about building deep core strength. This ‘central powerhouse’ is where a lot of movement originates, from walking and running to kicking and jumping.
In recent years, Pilates has earned its fair share of cult followers, from Kate Hudson to David Beckham and Sylvester Stallone (yes, really). But if you’ve never dabbled in the land of the reformer (and secretly think it looks like a medieval torture device), the appeal may be hard to see.
That’s why we thought we’d provide a quick rundown on the many not-so-obvious benefits of Pilates, and why you might want to make it part of your routine.
But first – what even is Pilates? The short answer: a low impact style of exercise that involves performing a series of controlled movements (such as leg lifts or pelvic curls). It was originally developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, and soon found popularity amongst professional dancers, who use it to avoid injury by aligning the body and building greater all-over strength. Of course, now the benefits are being embraced far more widely, and you can find classes in mainstream gyms, specialised studios and even online.
If you’re considering giving Pilates a try (or need a little convincing), here are a few things you may not have known about the practice – and why it may be just the thing you need in your life.
1. Back pain, be gone.
Pilates is all about building deep core strength. This ‘central powerhouse’ is where a lot of movement originates, from walking and running to kicking and jumping. By working on your deep abdominal muscles and pelvic floor, Pilates helps improve the ‘brace’ that supports and stabilises your back. This is why it’s often a recommended option for people suffering (or at risk from) lower back pain. The other upside of all that core strength? Your posture will improve, and you’ll walk taller. For anyone who spends a lot of their day sitting at a computer, this is a definite bonus.
2. Avoid those annoying injuries.
We’re told that ‘accidents happen’ – but if you have better balance and well-conditioned muscles, you’re actually much less likely to suffer from those stumbles, tumbles, sprains and strains. This is especially valuable as we start to get older, when small ‘twinges’ start to happen more often and take longer to resolve.
By building dynamic strength, Pilates teaches your body to stabilise itself and keeps your muscles supple during all kinds of movement. So you don’t need to worry about putting out your back every time you sneeze.
3. It’s a great antidote to stress.
Much like yoga, Pilates brings together focused, repetitive movements and breathwork. This brings your focus inward, helping you be present in the moment and connect with your body. In the Pilates ‘zone’, you can completely switch off from the outside world and all its stresses. As your cortisol (or stress hormone) lowers, your entire nervous system becomes more regulated. And while it can certainly be challenging, Pilates doesn’t have the same ‘hype’ factor as some gym classes (like spin or HIIT), so there’s no ‘crash’ after a high-energy session.
4. It is a real ‘leveller’.
One of the beautiful things about Pilates is that it’s suitable for so many different people. It wouldn’t be unusual to find a new mum, a serious athlete and a grandfather in the same class – because the wellbeing benefits of Pilates are just as relevant and valuable to everyone.
It’s also easy to choose your own level of difficulty with Pilates, regardless of what everyone around you is doing. On the reformer, there’s no judgement and nothing to prove! This makes for an inclusive culture that welcomes newcomers of all ages, body types and fitness levels.
5. You don’t need to buy gear to enjoy it.
When we hear about Pilates, our minds often leap to reformer machines (which can be a little bit intimidating to the uninitiated!). While some people do end up investing in their own reformer for at-home convenience, the good news is, you definitely don’t have to! If you choose to try Pilates in a studio under the guidance of a qualified instructor, use of the reformers (and any other gear you need) will be included as part of the package.
There are also Pilates classes that utilise only simple props like a mat, block or Pilates ring. Once you have mastered the basics, this type of Pilates can even be done via online class in the comfort of your own home – you can find all your essentials at rebel.
You don’t even need a particular outfit to get started. As long as you can easily move in it, and it won’t catch on the equipment and get in your way, any outfit will do. That said, a lot of people do invest in a pair of Pilates socks to give some extra grip – once you’ve balanced on one leg on a reformer you’ll understand why. We love these BAHE open-toed socks, which are super grippy!
Of course, if you end up slotting Pilates into your regular weekly schedule, you might appreciate a set of activewear that can take you from leg lifts to lunch dates. Bahe is one of our go-to brands – their soft, lightweight and breathable sports bra and comfy, high rise 7/8 tights tick all the boxes for fashion and function.
6. It can be a whole new kind of fun.
We kid you not. Once you start to get the hang of the reformer, and the many movements that Pilates involves, it can be really fun to do! Making your body move in such different ways – gliding, floating, circling – is an interesting challenge and can feel quite freeing and playful. Not to mention a welcome change of pace from the workouts you may be used to.
So go on – why not add a little Pilates to your life?
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