The Wider Benefits of Pilates

Pilates as a form of exercise has only been around since the 1920s, and whilst this may seem like a long time the method has not been adopted into mainstream fitness as much as other fields of exercise.

There are however some interesting wider benefits of Pilates that can include positive impacts on both your mental and cardiovascular health.

Mental Health Benefits

Many studies have indicated that there is a positive correlation between mental health and good physical activity. For starters, it can act as a great way to destress yourself after a long day at work. The slow movements with an emphasis on control and contraction help you stretch your body out whilst also allowing you time to practice some meditation if wanted.

Improving your memory retention skills

When many people go to the gym they end up performing exercises like running or cycling which whilst good for you, do not provide a lot of cognitive function. Pilates is great because it combines physical stress with mental effort. Holding and learning different Pilates techniques requires memorizing which is good for both your mind and body.

The breathing techniques encourage mindfulness

When people practice mediation a good starting point is to focus purely on breathing. Luckily, breathing technique is a big part of Pilates. Also, if you sometimes struggle with meditation to truly clear your mind Pilates can help provide something to focus on. The different movements require you to think about what you are doing with your body.

Benefits to wider physical Health

Whilst Pilates does not have amazing immediate benefits for your physical health, combining it into a well-rounded workout routine will help you to optimise your health going forward.

Social Aspect of Pilates classes

Many people attend Pilates classes purely for the physical benefit to your body. However, once you’ve been to one it is difficult to ignore the social benefit of exercise classes. This can also positively impact your mental health and is a great way to meet new people.

Find a Pilates class near you to start exploring the benefits of the exercise

If all of these benefits sound too good to pass up it may be time to start your Pilates journey. Our search tool helps you find the best Pilates teacher in your area. Pilates is a great way to diversify your exercise routine and if practised correctly, can have a number of interesting benefits.