Introduction
A. The Benefits of Pilates Exercises
Pilates is a form of exercise that is beneficial for the body and the mind. Not only does it improve physical strength and mobility, but it also helps improve mental focus and can help you reduce stress. It is an excellent way to get in shape, tone your muscles, and reduce body fat. Additionally, Pilates exercises can be adapted for any fitness level and can vary in intensity, so that you can go at your own pace.
B. Why Pilates Exercises are Helpful When Practicing From Home
When it comes to working out from home, Pilates is one of the best exercises you can do. Not only is it low impact, but it’s no-equipment required. You can easily do Pilates exercises on your own and all you need is a mat. This makes it incredibly convenient and accessible no matter where you are. Furthermore, Pilates exercises are designed to be done in short spurs, so that you can fit them into your day. So, if you’re looking to get a quick, home workout in, Pilates is an excellent choice. In this article, we’ll discuss 6 Pilates exercises that you can easily do from the comfort of your own home.
6 Pilates Exercises to Try From Home
A. The Hundred: Looking to get a full-body workout at home? Start with the Hundred exercise, a Pilates essential! This move starts off on the mat with your legs bent in table top position and arms reaching up perpendicular to the floor. Engage the abs and curl your head, neck, and shoulders up off the mat. Pump your arms five times toward the feet, hold for five counts, then pump your arms five more times. Oh, and don’t forget to breathe!
B. The Single Leg Circle: Beautiful and simple, this move is a great way to stretch out the hips and hamstrings without leaving home. Lie down on your back with both legs up in the air and your arms out to the side. Engage your core and draw one of your bent knees in toward your chest and extend the opposite leg out in a circle shape. Make sure to move slowly and use your core to really control the movement.
C. The Double Leg Stretch: This exercise works on that ever-important core strength, and you don’t even have to leave your living room. Lie down on your back with your arms stretched out above your head. Reach one arm up while also bringing both legs to tabletop position. Reach the opposite arm out and both legs away from you. The key to this move is to keep your core engaged and hips stationary- you don’t want to be rocking back and forth.
D. The Roll Up: This one will really test your core strength- and it makes for a great ab workout at home! Start with your arms extended overhead and legs straight out in front of you. Engage your core, then roll forward one vertebra at a time until your hands reach your legs. Pause briefly, then slowly roll back up to the starting position.
E. The Roll Over: It’s the beloved roll up taken to the next level! Lie down on your back in the same position as the roll up, but instead of rolling up, roll completely over on to your belly. From here, engage your core to roll back over to your back. Repeat once or twice more as desired.
F. The Teaser: This intermediate exercise requires a bit of balance and a strong core, but still makes for an excellent workout from home. Start by lying on your back, arms and legs stretched out. Engage your core and slowly lift your torso and legs up off the mat. Pause for a moment at the top before slowly rolling back down a vertebrae at a time. Master the teaser and you’ll be on your way to master Pilates!
Conclusion
Pilates exercises can offer so many physical and mental benefits to those willing to explore them. With the right equipment and some guidance, you can easily practice Pilates movements from the comfort of your own home. This short-list of exercises is a great start to familiarising yourself with the basics of Pilates and the moments of pleasure they can bring. Working out with Pilates regularly has been linked to an improved sense of wellbeing, lowered stress levels, better posture and a more toned physique. All you need to do is practice and you’ll feel the difference yourself. So why not give it a try and get to know the potential for Pilates at home. Who knows, you could be one Pilates session away from a more confident you!
