Pilates: why this 'light strength training' is so good for you

Pilates is often confused with yoga, but it has a different name for a reason. Pilates is a strength training program that doesn't put any strain on your joints. We'll explain more about it in this article!

Core focus

Pilates focuses on the center of your body, your core. Think of exercises like crunches, side planks, and hip bridges—all exercises you're probably already familiar with—using flowing movements and breathing. Contracting is exhaling, and relaxing is inhaling. This is not only calming but also has a strengthening effect on your body.

Did you know that the name of this exercise didn't just come out of nowhere? The inventor of Pilates is Joseph Hubertus Pilates. During World War I, he trained the sick in the military hospital to help them recover faster. To do this, he used a kind of wooden frame with a spring. Sound familiar? It's the first version of the apparatus we now know as the "Reformer." Now a common piece of equipment in many modern Pilates studios.

Your powerhouse

With Pilates, you train your core, your "powerhouse." Did you know that this is where strength always comes from? Whether you're training your arms, legs, or shoulders, it's always important to engage your core, or powerhouse. By this, we mean not only the six blocks on your stomach, but also your pelvic floor muscles and lower back.

Pilates goes deeper

What makes Pilates so effective and special is the depth of the workout. You train not only the superficial muscles, but also the deep muscles. Besides your core, the muscles in your upper and lower body also work simultaneously, so you still train the entire body.

The results are improved posture and flexibility, can prevent complaints in your hips and shoulders, a better developed body feeling and a stronger body without straining your joints.

Pilates starts

A Pilates session lasts between 45 and 75 minutes. Generally, you only need a fitness mat, but it can also be helpful to use small aids like a Pilates ball, fitness bands, a Pilates ring, and a yoga block.