10 Reasons to Try Pilates

This is a guest post from Lisa of Lisa Johnson Fitness.

Pilates is a great form of exercise that has been around for almost a hundred years.  Joe Pilates invented these exercises to help himself recover from polio.  He then began working with wounded soldiers during World War I and with injured ballerinas in New York City after the war.

Pilates has always been grounded in smart exercise aimed at making bodies stronger.  Here are 10 reasons to try Pilates.

Pilates Banishes the Muffin Top

The way you use your abs in Pilates is unique; it’s all about drawing inward, which is great for getting rid of any extra belly that you might have.

Pilates Makes You Lean

You’re moving during the entire class; there are no breaks.  This way you’re constantly flexing muscles to help sculpt a lean appearance.

Your Arms Will Look Amazing

All those sleek moves results in sleek arms.  You’ll be wearing tank tops with pride!  It’s no wonder so many Hollywood actresses, from Miley Cyrus to Sandra Bullock, swear by Pilates.

There are over 600 different exercises in Pilates with an endless array of combinations.  From mat work to the machines, Pilates will keep you interested and improving for decades.

You’ll Play Sports Better

Pilates helps your body function better as a whole.  Any sport that you do, Pilates will help improve your performance.  From downhill skiing to tennis, you’ll notice more control over moguls and more control of your backhand.  So many athletes from NFL linemen to pro golfers integrate Pilates into their training.

You’ll Be Less Prone to Injury

Pilates strengthens the muscles around the joints making you less likely to hurt yourself while participating in another activity.

You’ll Be Better Balanced

Whether it’s high heels on the dance floor or sneakers at a cardio class, you’ll have a better sense of balance.

Pilates Gives You Presence

Pilates trains you into better posture, so when you enter a room you’ll be looking graceful and elegant.  It’s a little secret among Pilatistas that good posture means all eyes will be on you.

Pilates is Great For Cranky Backs

Every move in Pilates relates to the spine.  Pilates develops strong, supple backs that are injury and pain free.  Even if you’ve had back surgery or herniated a disk, Pilates can help to alleviate pain and get you back to your life.

Pilates is Very Specific

Pilates instructors are well-versed in anatomy and if you want to hone in on one specific trouble area, they can do it.  From smaller tushies to more toned arms, Pilates has an array of exercises, not just one or two, that will work wonders.