Working out does not always have to happen in the gym. These days, the coronavirus pandemic has made it impossible for many to just walk into their local gym and work out as they please. Right now, it’s stricter and has become a hassle for many. But for those who want to continue to be fit, there are exercises that can be done at home, like mat pilates.
What is Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is a form of exercise that works to strengthen and lengthen your core. It does this while also training your arms and legs. This type of workout is based on the original exercise developed by Joseph Pilates which he follows to strengthen his own body. He then started teaching others this exercise technique.
Mat Pilates came first before any of the Pilates equipment he created was introduced. It has over 500 exercises that anyone can be done anywhere. What makes it unique is that mat pilates can be done by anyone of various ages, body types, and fitness levels.
Benefits of Mat Pilates
Mat Pilates helps you build a strong and balanced body while improving your flexibility. As your Pilates work progresses, in no time you will notice improvements in your body. Your breathing is better, you are more focused, stress is easier to manage, and you are fully aware of your body’s capabilities.
- Holistic Approach. Pilates has a holistic approach as it works with the mind, body, and soul. It provides benefits that can greatly improve your life – improved posture, better coordination, and balance. It also provides health benefits such as improved lung capacity, boosts concentration and focus, increased body awareness, alleviates stress, as well as injury prevention.
- Pilates for Everyone. That is why Mat work is an excellent exercise choice for everyone. There will be Pilates exercises for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced students. Pilates exercises do not only progress in difficulty, but each routine can be modified to reduce or increase the level of challenge. Mat Pilates is ideal for beginners because all they need to get started is to get their body ready, a mat, and some floor space.
If you are new to Pilates, you have to prepare your mind and body because it is unlike anything that you’ve ever done, but of course, in the best way possible. For beginners, always take your time and don’t be too hard on yourself. Never assume that you’ll have to use the same muscles that you’ve used in every other type of exercise that you have done before.
Allow yourself to slow down if needed and make smaller movements if it gets too hard. It is useless to use your full range of motion to focus on a very challenging movement and you don’t get it right. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t complete every exercise with perfection. You have to remember that Pilates is called a “practice” for a reason.