A lot of people love Pilates because it’s a feel-good workout that targets our bodies full – with a dramatic improvement in strength, balance, and mobility. And if a lot of people love it – I’m pretty sure you will too.
Pilates have been around for over a century and it’s a popular form of exercise for those looking to tone their bodies. In recent years, Pilates gained more attention than ever because it is said to be a potential solution for weight loss.
Though there are many conflicting opinions about it, Pilates is actually good for weight loss.
But how?
In this post, let’s take a look at why Pilates is worth incorporating into your fitness routine – especially if you are looking to shed some pounds.
Explore America's #1 Selling Weight Loss Supplements
Pilates for Weight Loss – Myth or Fact?
Pilates is good for weight loss. It’s a fact that has been research and studied for years now. To tell you the truth, not only Pilates can help with weight loss – but it can also reduce your BMI, and tone your waist, abdomen, and hip areas. This is according to a study made in 2017 on 37 overweight women between the ages of 30 to 50 years.
So as much as I want to separate scientific information and start with the ‘fun fitness fads’ brought by Pilates, it’s hard to. Otherwise, I won’t be able to tout Pilates as one of the most effective methods for weight loss. Okay, here goes.
Contrary to popular belief, exercise such as running and strength training are not the primary drivers of weight loss. Although it is true that engaging in physical activity can help create a calorie deficit (necessary to shed pounds), that doesn’t mean that you can’t reinvent the wheel.
Remember, weight loss is determined by the balance between calories consumed and calories burned. As it happens, Pilates allows our bodies to burn up to 450 calories for every 1-hour advanced workout. It’s a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and core stability. Consequently, it can contribute to weight loss indirectly.
To make everything better while you are doing Pilates regularly, try partnering your journey with a weight loss kit.
My personal favorite is the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Kit that includes their original supplement, gummies (yum!), and drink mix. What I love most about this product (aside from being delicious), is that the key weight loss ingredient (C. Canephora robusta) is scientifically researched – no wonder why the Hydroxycut brand has sold over 100 million bottles and is America’s #1 Selling weight loss supplement brand.
So, be well on your way to becoming a confident, fit, and proficient Pilates practitioner, while also loving the results that lie ahead!
The calorie-burning potential of Pilates
With each graceful movement, a Pilates fitness journey can be as magical as you want it to be. You are not just sculpting your body, but also unleashing your body’s limitations in burning calories along the way.
Pilates is all about your core – it’s the secret weapon to engage those deep muscles. For every twist and turn that you do, you are torching calories that activate more energy and dramatic improvements in sleeping habits.
On average, a one-hour Pilates session can burn approximately 200-400 calories. However, it's important to note that these numbers are estimates and can vary from person to person. So if you are doing a beginner activity, of course, you are burning fewer calories than those practicing intermediate to advanced Pilates workouts. That’s just basic math. But don’t fret! As you go on and practice it for at least 6 months, it’s guaranteed that you’ll get there. Consistency is always key.
Why Pilates is Good for You?
There are so many reasons why Pilates is good for you. I don’t even know where to begin! But for the sake of the article, I’ll try my best to count all the things as to why Pilates is a dual-purpose exercise that’s not just a calorie-burning crusader but also good for overall health.
1. Improved flexibility, strength, and posture
Let’s start with the holistic benefits of Pilates. Through a series of controlled and precise movements, Pilates targets muscles and joints, gradually increasing their range of motion and resulting in improved flexibility that can enhance athletic performance and muscle strength.
Also, unlike traditional weightlifting (which some of us hate), Pilates does not isolate individual muscles but rather engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This is a full-body approach that creates balanced strength and stabilizes our spine for a more stable back. You know what this means, right? Goodbye, leg days!
2. Stress reduction and increased mindfulness
All exercises and physical activities can reduce stress and increase our mindfulness. But what sets Pilates apart is the flowing movements and focus on your breath. This allows you to enter a state of mindfulness to a level where you get to let go of daily worries and tensions.
Believe me, the mind-body connection fostered by Pilates helps to calm the mind, release tension, and promote a sense of relaxation. It’s like getting a full-body massage and physical activity all at once!
3. Rehabilitation and injury prevention
Whether you're an athlete looking to bounce back from a sports-related injury or an individual seeking to prevent future injuries, Pilates can be a game-changer. This is coming from a lifestyle coach who has gone through a lot of trials and errors in the field of wellness and fitness.
In terms of rehabilitation, we believe that with the help of a professional Pilates instructor, they can help customize a program that addresses different body concerns. Be it a back injury, knee pain, or shoulder issues, practicing Pilates can lead to a successful and safe recovery. Just make sure you consult with your doctor before starting any injury recovery or rehabilitation program.
4. Better body awareness and alignment
Since you are engaged in a controlled, precise movement Pilates integrates, you will be able to learn to move with intention and coordination which promotes better body awareness in whatever physical activity you have in mind. Also, through the use of breath control and concentration, those who practice Pilates will notice improved mental well-being because they’ll be more focused on the present moment. Pilates can also help individuals prevent common issues such as back pain or joint stiffness, by strengthening the muscles that support the body.
5. Increased muscular endurance
Through regular Pilates sessions, you can gradually strengthen your muscles and improve their ability to sustain physical effort over an extended period. This increase in muscular endurance not only enhances your overall physical performance but also reduces the risk of fatigue and injury.
I also want to emphasize the constant engagement your body will go through with Pilates. As you progress in your practice, you will notice that you can maintain proper form and execute exercises with greater ease and efficiency. This is another clear indication of improved muscular endurance.
6. It’s suitable for people of many fitness levels and ages
Finally (and also the most exciting part), Pilates is suitable for people of many fitness levels and ages. It’s the perfect physical activity for those who hate high-intensity workouts that put excessive strain on the joints and muscles.
And since Pilates is a low-impact exercise, it’s also good for older people who want to strengthen their body from the inside out and promote better spine alignment. Whether you're looking to improve strength, flexibility, posture, or overall well-being, Pilates offers a multitude of benefits that can positively impact your life. So, unlock the potential of Pilates and embark on a journey towards a healthier and happier you.
Tips for Beginners in Pilates
Just like anything else in this world, everyone starts as a beginner. You can’t just try an activity or hobby you’ve been wanting to do and master it overnight. Everything has a process. Lucky for you, I happen to have so many tips for beginners in Pilates as a fitness coach. Here are some of my favorite ones!
1. Start with an instructor
Whether your instructor is a paid professional or those free YouTube Pilates videos, it’s crucial to start with an instructor. Otherwise, you’re doing more harm than good to your body. A certified Pilates instructor can guide you through the correct techniques and form, which will prevent you from having any potential injuries.
2. Focus on your breathing
Breathing is integral to Pilates. You can’t just move your body around without concentrating on using your breath to engage your core. So, inhale deeply through your nose, fill your lungs, and exhale fully through your mouth. But don’t overdo it! As long as you engage your abdominal muscles, you’re doing okay.
3. Begin with the basics
Don't rush into complex moves right away. Start with the foundational exercises to develop proper alignment and control. Mastering the basics will provide a solid foundation for more advanced movements.
4. Maintain proper form
If you don’t know how to maintain proper form in Pilates, you’re definitely not getting to the next level. Pay attention to your posture and alignment, and keep your spine lengthened.
5. Be patient and listen to your body
Pilates is a practice that requires patience and consistency. You have to listen to your body and progress at your own pace. Remember that you are not in competition with anyone but yourself. Also, it’s totally normal to feel some muscle soreness at first. But if the pain or discomfort persists, modify what movements you are doing and talk to your instructor. Better yet, consult with a physical therapist.
6. Stay committed
Success doesn’t happen overnight. You have to work on your Pilates movement to make it one of the reasons for your weight loss. Whether it be a Pilates class or online tutorials, you have to stay committed to seeing the results of your hard work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit
What is the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit?
The Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit is a comprehensive package that includes a range of Hydroxycut products designed to support your weight loss journey. It combines the power of the original Hydroxycut supplement with the convenience of Hydroxycut Gummies and Hydroxycut Drink Mix.
How does the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit work?
Each product in the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit is formulated with ingredients that work together to help you achieve your goals.
Are there any side effects of using the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit?
The Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit is safe to use by healthy adults. It's important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your own particular use of the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit.
How long does it take to see results with the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit?
Results will vary based on individual factors such as diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle. It's recommended to use the Hydroxycut Weight Loss Starter Kit in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise for optimal results. In fact, the average weight loss in 60 days with the key ingredient (C. canephora robusta) was 10.95 lbs. with a low-calorie diet, and 3.7 lbs. in a separate 8-week study with a calorie-reduced diet and moderate exercise. See success stories here.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Pilates offers something for everyone – especially to those who are trying to shed some pounds. So, take the leap and unlock the transformative benefits of Pilates for a healthier and happier (and sexier) you.
- 30-Day Workout Challenge for Beginners
- Do You Gain Weight on Your Period?
- 23 Low Sodium Snacks that You Must Add to Your Day
- How to Get Rid of Saddlebags?
- BCAAs for Women - All You Need to Know
- BCAA vs EAA - All You Need to Know
Our Most Read Content:
- Frequently Asked Hydroxycut Q&A
- Is Hydroxycut Effective?
- Is Hydroxycut Safe?
- Does Hydroxycut Work?
- Wondering About Hydroxycut Side Effects?
Shop America's Best-Selling Weight Loss Supplements
The links used in this article are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by Iovate Health Sciences International Inc. or any of its affiliates (“Iovate”) of any of the products, services or opinions of the corporation or organization or individual. Iovate bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content
