What to Know Before You Take Pilates
Pilates offers tons of benefits to your body – no matter your level of experience or expertise. Not only will you improve your posture and body alignment, you’ll get an amazing core workout (hello abs!). Convinced yet? We know you’ll love Pilates training! Here’s everything you need to know before your first Pilates session.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that strengthens and stabilizes your core body while improving postural alignment and flexibility. While Pilates strongly targets core muscles, it totally works other areas of the body as well.
Pilates is a full-body workout. Yes, Pilates is core-focused, but you’re really working the entire trunk which includes the abdominals, hips, inner and outer thighs and back. Some moves will engage your arms too.
At each session, you can expect a 45-minute to an hour full-body workout that uses slow, precise movements and breath control.
Types of Pilates Sessions
In Pilates, resistance is used to strengthen and isolate muscles. There are two kinds of Pilates sessions. Mat pilates incorporates a thick mat that cushions pressure points. Reformer sessions use a sliding platform with stationary foot bar, springs, and resistance pulleys. Both focus on control rather than reps until you reach muscle exhaustion.
Try out Pilates at Driven! We host private Pilates sessions. Call or Text today to set up a Pilates appointment at our South Tampa studio gym!
What to Expect at Pilates
Some of the more common exercises you can expect in the first few Pilates sessions include:
- The Hundred – a breathing exercise that targets core strength and stability
- The Roll Up – a slow, precise move that stretches the spine and back of the body while also strengthening the abdominals
- Leg Circles – a move which strengthens the hips and stabilizes the core
- Rolling Like a Ball – massages the spine and opens the back
- Series of 5 – a group of moves that strengthens your back muscles and abdominals
Make sure you wear the right gear. For Pilates, opt for form-fitting clothes. This will not only help you perform; it will also allow the instructor to see your movements.
Leave your running shorts at home, and instead wear capris or leggings with a tank top or fitted long-sleeve shirt. As for your feet, either go barefoot or wear footwear that adheres to the studio’s protocol (usually socks with rubber detailing on the soles).
Pilates sessions focus on control rather than
reps until you reach muscle exhaustion.
Will I be sore after my workout?
During your Pilates session, you will perform bodyweight exercises that can be intense for some. The focus will be on good form and execution – both of which can make for next-day sore muscles. Keep in mind, the level of muscle soreness will decrease over time as your body gets used to the movements.
At Driven Fit, trainers offer exercise modifications for all Pilates beginners. We’re not going to make you miserable! Plus, at our full-service studio you can get a massage to break down the lactic acid build-up that’s the root cause of the soreness.
Adding Pilates into Your Fitness Routine
Pilates likely isn’t your only form of exercise. After each session, your body needs a recovery period (typically a day or two). On those off days, try other workouts that complement Pilates such as weight training, cardio or yoga. Your trainer will customize a workout routine that blends Pilates in perfectly.
Interested in trying Pilates*? Call or text our South Tampa wellness studio today at (813) 440-3016 to learn more about our private Pilates or Pilates appointments!
*We know you’re raring to go for your first Pilates appointment, but just make sure to ok it with your doctor first. It’s always best to consult a physician before starting a new exercise or diet program.
