When it comes to muscle building, there are basically two approaches – work the stuff you can see… or work the stuff you can’t. And although many of us are tempted to just focus on those glamorous, “this-way-to-the-gun-show” muscles, they don’t really do anything for your body. Now, if you’re actually looking to feel better, stronger, fitter, and healthier overall, well that’s where core-strengthening and total body muscle lengthening comes in – and there’s no better way to do that than with Pilates.

What is Pilates? 

Pilates was created in the 1920s, when a physical trainer named Joseph Pilates developed a series of exercises designed to help injured athletes and dancers recover faster. Throughout the years, this intense, low-impact style of core strengthening blew up. And for good reason – there are so many benefits of Pilates, it’s tough to count them. But we’re gonna try…

Flexing that Flexibility

Pilates incorporates elongating and stretching several muscles in your body, leading to increased flexibility and range of motion. And the fact is, everything’s better when you’re more flexible – you stand taller, walk prouder, and move around more easily. Not to mention, you can reduce those ever-so-creaky sore muscles you’ve been feeling in the morning. NICE!

Rev Those Engines

Pilates might seem like a pretty docile workout, but there’s a whole lot happening just below the surface. All that huffing, puffing, squeezing, and holding does a great job of circulating oxygen and blood flow, which releases those yummy dopamine and endorphin chemicals that boost your energy and your mood.

Lean & Mean

One of the best Pilates benefits for regular Pilates practitioners is some major changes in the body’s overall shape and appearance. Pilates generally taps you into the lower end of your fat-burning zone so you will burn some calories and fat (to be fair, not as many as with like a Spinning workout, but still… some extra), and with all those stretches you’ll be doing, get ready for a longer, leaner physique.

Core & More

Pilates central focus is on your core muscles – those 35 stupendous muscle groups that seem to be at the root of our health and fitness. A good, strong core is the key to preventing injuries, so the next time you’re out in the garden, fixing a shelf, or playing some catch with your little leaguer, you won’t have to worry about the impending back spasm coming your way.

Get Yourself Connected

Even though many of us have gotten used to our new routines, the lack of entertainment, hangouts, and massive celebrations can get to us. What’s great about Pilates is that intensive breathing exercises (similar to yoga) are a wonderful way to center yourself, and connect your mind, body, and spirit. Namaste, anyone?

Pilates for the People!

Another great Pilates benefit is the fact that literally anyone can do it. Most of the exercises you’ll be doing have variations for multiple skill levels. But if you need that extra guidance, our Pilates Workout Online Channel features tons of great classes taught by passionate, expert trainers. No matter your skill level, Studio SWEAT onDemand will have a workout (or like, a hundred) for you.

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