Pilates...Does it work for you?

DizzyLinds

Hey,

Did Pilates last night after my BodyPump class....hadn't done it in a while and really want to improve my core strength and range of motion.

Has anyone seen any positve effects from doing Pilates as part of their training programme?

Lozzielol

I started doing Pilates last year, to help strengthen my core and back. My doc suggested it as my back is very weak and I have a lot of problems with it. For me, it's fantastic. I did end up back in physiotherapy last winter because I fell, but if I hadn't been doing Pilates for a few months it would have been a lot worse. Now, I feel less pain, and I can do more active things without the thought of "I'm going to pay for this later". I even managed to get off my meds as I no longer needed the pain relief! I'm not a very flexible person, but I have noticed that my flexibility has increased, and I can bend much easier without feeling any twinges. There are still a lot of moves I avoid, however, as I feel they will put too much pressure on my lower back. I just do what I think I can manage. Usually, the instructor has a much bigger range of movement than me but I'm okay with knowing my limits and sticking to them. :happy:


Long story short: Yes, it worked for me. My core is much stronger and I am far more flexible than I was. I'd definitely suggest keeping it up, I find it relaxing to boot.

mfpmonkey

its a great core strenghtener but as far as range of motion i dont see benefits there

melsinct

I started in August doing a class 2x/week. I have been steadily maintaining my weight but have gone down a pants size (woohoo!) since starting the class. I have much more defined muscles in my arms and my jiggly stomach has shrunk considerably. I also notice I am much more flexible now. I also have noticed that my posture has improved, mainly because I am more aware of when I am slouchy. So yes, it has definitely worked for me!

I take a traditional pilates mat class one day a week and a more intensive one on the second day where mat pilates is mixed with props, like exercise balls, this little skateboard looking thing called an orbit, bands, etc. I absolutely love it and see me sticking with it for a long time. Also it is nice that pilates can work around back and knee injuries, and my class has everyone from people like me who are fairly fit to overweight people, much older people, etc. It really is good for all ages and body types.

katkins3

The few Pilates classes I've seen have been more of a performance by the leader than a class. Its like they don't even realize the complete disconnect between what they are doing and the skill level of those present. I felt like we should clap.
The "instructor" showing off how wonderful she is may inspire some, but I found it discouraging.
To me, Pilates is Latin for, "Fat chicks can't do it".
I know others have had good experiences, but in truthfulness, my experience has been negative. I'm sure there are some instructors out there who are not in love with their own reflection.

DizzyLinds

Funny you should say that...i actually put the instructor to shame as i was in better shape than she was...and like 20 years younger!

melsinct

YES! Your class is only as good as the instructor. I love love love the woman who teaches my class. She is very good at what she does and I have learned a ton. However, I can't stand yoga and I believe it is because I took a class with some woman who was more concerned with herself than anyone in her class. Some people are just not meant to teach.