Pilates – how and what to do to practice the stars' favorite workout
It's a favorite practice of celebrities and is undoubtedly having its moment right now. Pilates—because that's what we're talking about—is one of the most popular body-sculpting methods today. Learn the secret behind the method, what Pilates Reformer is all about , and what to wear to your first workout.
Although Pilates is a static practice, it engages all body parts and activates muscles better than Zumba or fitness classes. The foundation is awareness and precision of movement. The exercises don't cause injuries or tension, and the results, according to trainers, can be felt after just a dozen or so sessions. Strengthening core muscles, increasing flexibility and endurance, improving coordination, balance, and posture, and energizing without burning out are just some of the benefits of the practice. Furthermore, anyone, literally anyone, can practice it. Due to its low intensity, it's perfect for pregnant women, the elderly, or beginners just starting their adventure with exercise. After an injury, it facilitates an effective and safe return to physical activity, and in the case of conditions such as spinal deformities, it can help strengthen the spine and correct poor posture. For active individuals, it's an excellent foundation and complement to other forms of exercise. It strengthens core muscles, teaches control, concentration, and intelligent and conscious movement. Do you still have any doubts about why it's worth practicing?
The health benefits of Pilates
Pilates is a training program combining elements of yoga, tai chi, gymnastics, and ballet, developed in the 1920s by German athlete Joseph Pilates . Its first beneficiaries were soldiers who suffered on the front lines during World War I. Pilates, then working as a medic, helped them with their rehabilitation, using his own sets of exercises and resistance systems he designed, which allowed them to train in bed. When he emigrated to the United States, he opened his own studio, primarily injured dancers, as it was located near a renowned ballet school. Pilates helped them recover and regain full mobility. Today, virtually anyone can benefit from the practice—body weight, fitness, or agility are irrelevant. The versatility of the technique allows for exercises to be tailored to individual needs and skill level. Numerous tools are available, the most important of which is the reformer. The machine consists of a moving platform attached to a frame with springs of varying resistance levels. The varying degrees of spring resistance make the platform more or less difficult to move, which directly impacts the effort required to perform the exercises. During training, you work solely with your own body weight, so practice doesn't overly bulk up your physique, but instead slims, firms, and beautifully sculpts your figure. The reformer's versatility allows it to be used not only by healthy individuals but also by those undergoing rehabilitation, seniors, and those with poor posture. Pilates helps you understand how the human body works and teaches proper movement patterns. It activates all muscle groups, strengthening, stretching, and improving flexibility. It has the greatest impact on the deep core muscles, which are responsible for maintaining proper posture. Sequences are performed slowly, precisely, and consciously. The quality of movement is paramount, not the number of repetitions. Conscious breathing and tailoring exercises to individual abilities eliminate the risk of injury and strain, making it suitable for pregnant women and those returning to physical activity after a long break. One of the primary benefits of Pilates is a strong and healthy spine, which is why the practice is recommended for those who spend long hours sitting, tend to slouch, or experience hip and back pain.
Benefits of practice
Although Pilates is a static, relatively low-intensity workout, its effects are spectacular. It activates the entire body, from the toes to the top of the head, including muscle groups not used daily. During training, muscles are stretched to their maximum potential, strengthening them but not causing them to grow. This results in a lean and harmoniously sculpted body instead of an overly bulky silhouette. The foundation of Pilates is working with the core muscles, which are responsible for correct posture and controlled, graceful movements. Regular training corrects posture, ensures a strong and healthy spine, and increases the range of motion of joints. There's no risk of tension, strain, or injury. The exercises are tailored to the body's abilities and are completely safe. The Reformer's versatility allows for gradual load adjustments on the springs, ensuring continuous stimulation of muscle fibers. As these muscles become stronger, collagen production increases, ensuring firm and smooth skin. However, the comprehensive and long-term benefits of Pilates are not limited to the physical. The practice also engages the mind. Concentrating on breathing, paying attention to precision and fluidity of movements require clearing the head and being here and now.
Heading out for your first workout? Check out the JOYINME bond collection, designed specifically for Pilates.
Pilates exercises, including those on the reformer, require focus and full commitment. Many things must be kept in mind simultaneously – proper positioning, movement control, proper breathing, and symmetrical body alignment. To help you prepare for your workout, we've created a capsule collection that perfectly complements your practice, providing support and comfort during your workout. The workout set consists of long leggings and a bra with a cutout that beautifully exposes the back . The back undoubtedly attracts attention, but it also has a more practical purpose – it keeps you cool during your workout. The clothes are made of Bond material, designed for higher-intensity and more dynamic exercises. Cool to the touch, smooth, and matte, it supports and shapes the figure, comfortably hugging the figure. Densely woven, fully opaque, and durable, it is less susceptible to abrasion or pilling. It will withstand numerous machine sessions, but not only that. Like all JOYINME clothing , the Bond top and leggings combine elegant form with sporty features, so the clothes from the latest collection can be worn to a Pilates studio or for everyday wear. Whenever comfort is key.
