Get a Pilates Body

Pilates is a great way to bring balance to the body. And don’t think it is just for women. Men do it too. There are so many great reasons to do Pilates. Not only does it strengthen muscles, it is a great way to lengthen contracted muscles. Not only is it physical, it is mental too. Are you ready take the Pilates challenge?

History of Pilates

The exercises were developed back in the 1940s by a guy called Joseph Pilates who first used the yoga-like moves to rehabilitate Second World War soldiers. He then modifies the style for injured dancers and so the modern day method was born.

Why Pilates are good for you?

When our muscles are weak they make compensations for each other which lead to instability and injury. Take your back for instance: if your posture is bad, your lower back and hips will then adjust themselves accordingly which means they’re essentially out of whack.

Pilates encourages you to think about how you perform everyday movements. It heightens your body awareness which in turn improves your overall agility, flexibility and strength. It helps you ensure your body is working at its optimal level all the time.

This Pilates workout program uses a Pilates circle. You can do this at the gym, home, or even traveling.

Beginners: 2 sets /15 reps

Intermediate: 3 sets/20 reps

Advanced: 4 sets/25 reps

Full Body Pilates Circle Program

Upper Body Exercises:

Straight arms squeeze forward

Straight arms squeeze above head

Straight arms squeeze behind

Straight arms squeeze side(do each side)

Lower Body Exercises:

On side-inner thigh squeezes

On side-outer thigh squeezes

Laying down on back-inner thigh squeezes

Laying down on back-outer thigh squeezes

Floor bridging-inner thigh squeezes

Floor bridging-outer thigh squeezes

Laying down on back-straight leg inner thigh squeezes

Laying down on back-straight leg outer thigh squeezes

Core Exercises:

Inner thigh crunches

Outer thigh crunches

Straight legs-inner thigh crunches

Straight legs-outer thigh crunches

Photographer: Wade Livingston | Pilates circle: Buy here
Shoes: Asics | Workout capris: Pattonijoe
Workout top: Makeitmint