Do you routinely exercise every day? For those who already exercise regularly or haven't been active at all, Pilates can be a great option to vary your exercise routine.
Pilates exercises are very flexible; you can do them at a fitness studio or even in your own home. There are various Pilates tutorial videos you can follow at home, or if you want to improve your Pilates skills, you can go to a studio and try Pilates with special equipment, such as Reformer Pilates, Cadillac Pilates, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, and others.
However, before you decide to go to a Pilates class, it's a good idea to get to know Pilates better. There are also several things you should know about Pilates before trying it, so you won't give up and will actually get addicted to continuing your Pilates practice.
Read also: What is a Wunda Chair? Its Benefits and How to Use It
Here are some things you should know before trying Pilates:
Start with a Mat Pilates Class
While Reformer Pilates classes are currently very popular, for those new to Pilates, it's best to start with Mat Pilates first. Starting with Mat Pilates before trying a Reformer can help your body understand how to support itself and maintain balance during exercise.
Once you feel comfortable and accustomed to Pilates movements, you'll be ready to try exercises with Pilates equipment, such as a Reformer or even a Cadillac. Don't forget to tell your Pilates instructor that you are a beginner, so they can guide you to movements suitable for your ability.
Also Read: Safe and Effective Cadillac Pilates Movements for Beginners
Pilates Doesn't Always Require Equipment
For beginners, the only equipment needed for a Pilates class is a mat. While it's natural to be curious about trying Pilates equipment, it's better to first thoroughly learn the correct movements and body postures in Pilates before moving on to the next stage of Pilates.
Once you are proficient in Mat Pilates classes, you can try Pilates exercises with equipment such as Cadillac Pilates, Reformer Pilates, Wunda Chair, Spine Corrector, or Ladder Barrel. Whatever Pilates class you take, be sure to inform the instructor that you are a beginner. This way, the instructor will supervise and correct you during the class.
Some Movements in Pilates Classes May Be Repetitive
Movements in Pilates classes, especially beginner classes, may be repeated frequently. Don't get bored yet, as this can also provide many benefits, especially for introducing Pilates to those who are still at a beginner level.
Some common Pilates movements performed in beginner classes include:
- The Hundred, a breathing exercise that is also good for increasing core muscle strength and stability.
- Roll-Up, a slow and intense movement to stretch the spine and the back of the body, and strengthen the abdominal muscles.
- Leg Circles, movements that strengthen the hips and core muscles.
- Rolling Like a Ball, an exercise that massages the spine and opens the back.
- Series of 5, a group of movements aimed at strengthening the abdominal and back muscles.
Once you become accustomed to these movements, you can progress to the next level of Pilates, which will challenge your muscles more.
Also Read: Which is Better for Beginners: Cadillac or Reformer Pilates?
Your Muscles Might Feel "Burning" During Exercise
Even if you're not doing high-intensity exercises like heavy weightlifting, Pilates can still make your muscles feel "burning."
You don't need to worry, as this is normal when you work out your muscles. Especially if you haven't been active before, muscle soreness or stiffness might last for a week or even longer. This soreness will eventually disappear on its own. You should also not stop exercising, as this is a good sign that your muscles are becoming active again.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
During Pilates, you might be advised to wear rather tight clothing. This is because your instructor can see your Pilates movements better. Tighter clothing also prevents your clothes from getting caught on springs or other equipment.
For footwear, you can go barefoot or wear socks with grips on the bottom. Do not use regular socks, as this will put you at a higher risk of slipping during exercise.
Schedule Your Pilates Sessions
The enthusiasm to practice Pilates every day might be felt by some, especially beginners who have just discovered the joy of Pilates. However, you don't need to do this. Daily practice is actually not effective, because your body needs one or two days to recover after intense exercises like Pilates.
Additionally, don't make Pilates the only exercise you do. Try to also routinely do cardio and weight training so that your body will be fitter overall.
You can even use Pilates to aid in post-workout or even post-injury recovery. Pilates can also be a "warm-up" for your muscles before an intense weightlifting session.
Read more: Similar But Not the Same, Here Are the Differences Between Pilates and Yoga
Perform Pilates Movements Carefully
Mild muscle soreness after a Pilates session is normal, however, don't underestimate it if the pain feels very intense, as this could indicate an injury. Overdoing Pilates, especially if you're new to exercise, can cause your muscles to become overly tense.
To avoid injury, especially if you're a beginner, try to perform movements slowly. Focus each movement on your body, execute the movements as precisely as possible so you can avoid injury.
Additionally, you might consider taking private Pilates classes, so the instructor can truly focus solely on you. This also helps you perform Pilates movements correctly, which can prevent injuries.
Get Ready to Be Hooked on Pilates
Now Svargans know that Pilates is not just a trend, but a fun way to improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and boost overall fitness from within. This exercise is beginner-friendly as it can be started with just a mat, without expensive equipment at first. Although muscles might feel "burning" initially, comfort and lightness will soon follow if done consistently and mindfully.
Don't hesitate to start. Try Mat Pilates first to understand the basic movements, then move on to Reformer Pilates when your body is ready. Wear comfortable clothing, schedule your workouts wisely, and focus on movement techniques to avoid injury.
Want a stronger, more flexible, and injury-free body? Come on, start your Pilates journey now! Find the best Mat and Reformer Pilates equipment only at svrg.id, your partner for an active and healthy lifestyle.
