Dos and Don’ts for Pilates Class

Pilates is a low-impact workout that helps increase flexibility and postural alignment while strengthening the muscles. While it is generally low impact, Pilates is also an intense form of exercise with its own set of risks. Hence, to ensure you get the most out of the workout, you would need to follow precise instructions to do the moves correctly while maintaining a complete mind-body connection throughout the routine. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during a Pilates class. 

✓ Do: Pay attention to your mind and body

Each movement in Pilates requires a strong mind-body connection. To acquire optimal results from a Pilates routine, it’s important to engage the mind and the physical body. Instead of relying on momentum or rushing through exercises, use a mindful approach. Concentrate and visualise your muscles and bones moving together as you breathe and focus on each move.

X Don’t: Turn it into a competition

It can be tempting to “outdo” your Pilates mate. While friendly competition can motivate you, the prime objective in Pilates is to be in harmony with your body and your inner self. In a Pilates class, you will meet people of different fitness levels. There will be exercises that are more for you and exercises that you breeze through easily. Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace, so don’t compare yourself with others. Always come back to yourself and pay attention to how your body feels during each routine.

✓ Do: Be consistent

Good results from Pilates don’t happen overnight. If you want to maximise the benefits of Pilates, incorporate it into your daily life. Set up a routine and commit to it. Start slow but do it regularly. For example, two hours of Pilates a week is doable for many people. You can put in more hours as you get more familiar with the workout. Gradually increasing the intensity and rhythm of your workout would also allow your body to adapt to new moves and retain muscle memory, which leads to a deeper connection with the practice. People who do Pilates regularly share that they naturally engage their core even when doing everyday tasks, which helps improve their posture and reduce body aches.

X Don’t: Wear uncomfortable clothes

You may be drawn to all the different types of workout wear that are stylish and eye-catching. It’s OK to want to look good and fashionable during a Pilates class. However, make sure what you wear is appropriate for the exercise. When trying out new activewear, check to see if you can move easily in them or if there are any zippers or buckles that might hinder your movements.

✓ Do: Tell the instructor if something’s not right

Anytime you feel pain or unwell during a Pilates routine, immediately notify the instructor. Never overexert or push yourself to do moves that you are not ready for. You can also talk to your instructor if there are certain parts of the workout that you find particularly challenging so that they can correct them and help you ease into it better.

Making Pilates part of your life is an excellent investment for your health. Daily workouts aside, if you are suffering from pain in your body, Physiolates – a therapy combining Pilates and physiotherapy can help you find relief and improve your mobility. For more info about our Pilates classes, schedule an appointment with us!