05 Feb 2016
Stu Davies, Fitness Instructor, here from Holmer Park Health Club & Spa in Hereford. Our Pilates classes are becoming increasingly popular so I wanted to share some of the amazing benefits of this form of exercise with you, as well as discuss the differences between Pilates and Yoga.
Pilates offers whole-body fitness
Pilates uses all parts of your body, unlike many other forms of exercise. The primary focus is core strength, but you train your body as a whole with Pilates. This offers a level of holistic fitness that is hard to beat.
Pilates is adaptable to your needs and fitness level
Pilates is great for your fitness needs whether you are a professional athlete, somebody coming back to exercise after a break or a senior person who wants to start exercising a bit more, or for anyone else in between. Pilates focuses on both your body and mind, making you think about correct body alignment, and building core strength. But as it’s your own body strength you use, our Hereford Pilates classes can be tailored to your own capabilities and you can challenge yourself as you improve.
Getting stronger without getting bulky
The idea with Pilates is to develop long, lean muscle. You are not building muscle for show – you are using your muscles functionally. The stretching exercises in Pilates help you create long, strong muscles. So you don’t need to worry about earning a bodybuilding physique – but get nicely defined muscles instead. Think Brad Pitt rather than Arnie!
Develop your core strength
Core muscles include pelvic floor, the abdomen and the deep muscles of the back. You need these muscles to support efficient movement patterns, a good posture and a supple back. Your frame will be supported properly if you have a strong core, meaning your shoulders and neck can relax. And you will also be helping sculpt those toned abs that people covet so much! (But always remember that nutrition plays a keep part in getting a six-pack.)
Pilates – is that like Yoga?
Pilates is similar to Yoga, yes, but is an exercise in its own right. You only need to hold Pilates moves for a few seconds, whereas Yoga asanas can be for much longer. Yoga has more standing exercises while Pilates has more kneeling, sitting, and lying movements. With Pilates, you often work against resistance and can incorporate equipment such as exercise balls. Pilates may be better for you if your focus is to improve your core and back strength… but, hey, why not give both a try! Pilates and Yoga are on offer at Holmer Park.
If you want to learn more about Pilates (and Yoga…!) with Holmer Park’s qualified instructors, please come and speak to myself or one of the team. You can be sure that we offer a great foundation for your Pilates journey.