When it comes to Reformer Pilates , the question is no longer whether you should do it, but when is the best time to practice. Reformer Pilates has been widely recognized as an effective method for strengthening the body, increasing flexibility, and maintaining good posture. However, one dilemma that many people often face is determining whether it is better to do it in the morning or at night. Everyone has different rhythms and habits, but both times have unique benefits that can be tailored to your needs and lifestyle. So, when is the best time to practice Reformer Pilates? Let’s take a closer look.
1. Benefits of Pilates Reformer Workout in the Morning
Starting your day with a Reformer Pilates session can give you a much-needed energy and mental boost to get through the day. There are a few reasons why morning workouts are considered good for some people:
a. Increase Energy and Productivity
Many people feel more energetic after exercising in the morning. Reformer Pilates exercises involve movements that stimulate blood flow and oxygen throughout the body, which helps improve concentration and alertness. When you exercise in the morning, your body will feel fresher and ready to face the day's activities.
b. Forming a Consistent Routine
Morning workouts have a huge advantage when it comes to consistency. After a long day of activities, sometimes the motivation to work out in the evening can be lacking. By setting aside time in the morning, you can ensure that your Pilates routine is maintained without the distractions of a busy schedule during the day.
c. Reduce Stress and Anxiety at the Start of the Day
Mornings can be the most peaceful time to exercise. Practicing Reformer Pilates in the morning helps the body and mind release any tension that may have built up the night before. This exercise, which involves deep breathing and controlled movements, can provide a mental calm that lasts throughout the day, helping to reduce anxiety and stress.
d. Increase Daily Metabolism
Morning exercise helps boost your metabolism. This means that the calories you burn are not only during your workout, but also continue to increase throughout the day. So, if you have a goal of losing weight or want to increase your energy, morning may be the right time for Reformer Pilates.
2. Benefits of Practicing Reformer Pilates at Night
While morning workouts have many benefits, that doesn’t mean evening Pilates isn’t a good fit. In fact, for some, evening workouts can be an ideal way to end the day with relaxation and repair.
a. Relieve tension after a day of activities
After a day of sitting in front of a computer or doing intense physical activity, the body tends to become stiff and tense. Reformer Pilates in the evening can help release muscle tension that builds up throughout the day. The movements that focus on flexibility and stability can relieve soreness and make you feel more comfortable before bed.
b. Helps Improve Sleep Quality
A Reformer Pilates session in the evening can be a great way to calm your body and mind before bed. The practice, which involves deep breathing and steady movement, can help lower levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. This will help your body prepare for rest, and you can enjoy a more restful sleep.
c. Time Flexibility
For those with a very busy schedule in the morning or afternoon, working out in the evening may be the only realistic option. If you are someone who is more productive in the evening, then choosing to do Pilates after all the work is done can be a good solution. It also provides an opportunity to end the day with something that is beneficial to your physical and mental health.
d. Mental Relaxation After a Long Day
Many people feel more relaxed and stress-free after doing physical activity. For those who have a lot of pressure or tasks during the day, Reformer Pilates in the evening can help balance the mental state. With a focus on precise movements and regular breathing, this exercise can help relieve mental tension that builds up throughout the day.
Also read: Is It Right to Combine Pilates Exercises with Cardio?
3. Choose the Right Time for You
After learning about the benefits of exercising in the morning and at night, you may still be wondering, "So when is the best time for me?" The answer really depends on your personal needs, lifestyle, and how your body responds to physical activity at a particular time.
a. Know Your Body's Rhythm
Everyone has a different circadian rhythm, also known as the body’s biological clock. Some people feel more energetic in the morning, while others are more active and productive at night. Try to notice when you feel most energetic and use that time to exercise.
b. Adjust to Daily Schedule
Your daily routine also plays a big role in determining the best time to exercise. If you have a busy schedule in the morning, evenings may be better suited for Reformer Pilates workouts. Conversely, if evenings are often filled with social activities or fatigue, mornings may be the ideal time to exercise without distractions.
c. Prioritize Consistency
Whatever time you choose to practice, consistency is key. Choose a time that allows you to practice regularly. Whether it’s morning or night, consistent practice will yield better results in the long run than sporadic practice.
4. Can You Combine Both?
Of course! If you have the flexibility, there’s no harm in trying to work out at both times. For example, you could start your week with a morning workout to boost productivity, then move on to an evening workout later in the week to help you relax. Combining morning and evening workouts can also help you get the benefits of both, depending on how your body reacts.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer as to whether it’s better to do Reformer Pilates in the morning or at night. Both have unique benefits that can be tailored to your personal needs. Mornings provide an energy boost, help with consistency, and boost your metabolism, while evenings provide a chance to de-stress, improve sleep quality, and calm your mind. The key is to choose a time that works with your body’s rhythm and lifestyle, and to stay consistent in your workouts to get the most out of your workout. So whether you prefer to work out at the crack of dawn or dusk, make sure your body is always at its best with Reformer Pilates.
