You want to start lifting weights for a stronger body, but you’re not sure if it’s the right exercise for you. Or perhaps you’ve been dealing with back pain and heard that Pilates can help alleviate it, but you’re unsure of where to start. Well, one way to achieve your fitness goals and improve your overall well-being is through Pilates: BetterMe has just the program for you.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a physical fitness system that was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. In his book, “Return to Life Through Contrology”, Pilates describes his method as the “complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit”. It is focused on improving flexibility, strength, and balance through controlled movements that target specific muscles (1).
Unlike weight lifting, Pilates doesn’t involve repetitive or high-impact movements. Instead, it emphasizes precision and quality of movement, which makes it a low-impact form of exercise that’s suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The Principles of Pilates
The foundation of Pilates lies in its six principles: concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow. These principles are integrated into every exercise to help you develop proper form and technique while engaging your mind in the movements. This mind-body connection allows you to become more aware of your body and how it moves, which leads to improved balance, coordination, and posture.
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The Benefits of BetterMe Pilates
Pilates offers numerous benefits for both the mind and body. Here are some of the ways practicing Pilates can improve your overall well-being:
- Improved core strength: Pilates exercises target the deep abdominal muscles, together with other core muscles, which helps strengthen and tone them (2).
- Increased flexibility: The slow and controlled movements in Pilates help lengthen muscles, making them more flexible (3).
- Better posture: By strengthening the core and improving flexibility, Pilates helps improve postural awareness and control, which may result in less posture-related pain and discomfort (3).
- Reduced risk of injury: With its focus on proper form and technique, Pilates can help prevent muscle imbalances and joint strain, thereby reducing the risk of injury(4).
- Enhanced mind-body connection: The concentration and control required in Pilates help connect the mind and body, leading to improved focus and stress relief (5).
Types of Pilates
There are two main types of Pilates: mat-based and equipment-based. Mat-based Pilates involves performing exercises on a mat using your own body weight as resistance.
Equipment-based Pilates uses specialized machines, such as the Reformer or Cadillac, to support and challenge the body with added resistance. Both types have their benefits, so it’s a matter of personal preference and goals.
There’s yet another type of Pilates that’s suitable for beginners: wall Pilates.
What is Wall Pilates?
Wall Pilates is a modified version of traditional Pilates that uses a wall for support and stability. It’s particularly helpful for those who are new to Pilates or have limited mobility, as it allows them to perform the exercises with proper form and alignment.
Read more: Is BetterMe Worth It? The Truth About This Health and Fitness App
The BetterMe Pilates Program
The BetterMe Pilates program is designed to help you achieve your fitness goals and improve your overall well-being.
The program includes a variety of mat-based and equipment-based exercises that target different muscle groups and can be tailored to your specific needs. With clear instructions and modifications for different levels, the program is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.
You start with the basics of Pilates, such as breathing techniques and proper alignment, before you move on to more challenging exercises. As you progress through the program, you’ll notice improvements in your strength, flexibility, posture, and mind-body connection.
What to Expect from BetterMe Pilates
Any BetterMe Pilates review will tell you the program is more than just a workout routine. It’s a holistic approach to fitness and well-being that incorporates the principles of Pilates. With BetterMe Pilates, you can expect:
1. Expert guidance
The BetterMe Pilates program is developed and led by certified Pilates instructors who have many years of experience in the field. They provide clear instructions, demonstrate proper form, and offer modifications to suit different fitness levels.
2. A variety of exercises
From beginner-friendly movements to advanced challenges, the BetterMe Pilates exercises cover a wide range of difficulty levels to keep you engaged and motivated.
3. A personalized experience
The program allows you to customize your workouts based on your fitness level, goals, and available equipment. With the option to track your progress and adjust your plan accordingly, you can make the most out of your Pilates journey with BetterMe.
4. Accessible anytime, anywhere
With the BetterMe app, you can access the Pilates program anytime, anywhere. All you have to do is grab your mat or equipment, open the app, and start your workout.
Read more: What Is Physical Health, and Why Is it Important?
Is BetterMe Pilates Free?
No, the BetterMe Pilates program isn’t free. However, it does offer a 7-day free trial for new users to try out the program and see if it’s the right fit for them. After that, there are subscription options available for either monthly or yearly access to the full program.
The good thing about paid programs such as BetterMe Pilates is that they provide structured and comprehensive workouts, together with expert guidance and support. This can be particularly helpful for those who are new to Pilates or need extra motivation and accountability.
Conclusion
Pilates is a fantastic form of exercise for improving overall fitness and well-being. With its focus on mind-body connection, proper form, and multiple muscle groups, it offers a unique approach to physical fitness.
Whether you want to strengthen your body, improve flexibility, or just relieve stress, our program has something for everyone. With clear instructions and modifications for different levels, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Say goodbye to back pain and hello to a stronger, more balanced body with BetterMe Pilates.
DISCLAIMER:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not serve to address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for making any kind of decision-making. Any action taken as a direct or indirect result of the information in this article is entirely at your own risk and is your sole responsibility.
BetterMe, its content staff, and its medical advisors accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors, misstatements, inconsistencies, or omissions and specifically disclaim any liability, loss or risk, personal, professional or otherwise, which may be incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and/or application of any content.
You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or your specific situation. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of BetterMe content. If you suspect or think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor.
SOURCES:
- Pilates (2011,nih.gov)
- Pilates to Improve Core Muscle Activation in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review (2023,nih.gov)
- Pilates for improvement of muscle endurance, flexibility, balance, and posture (2010,nih.gov)
- The Effect of Pilates Exercises on Mobility and Dynamic Balance in Former Athletes and Sedentary Individuals (2024,dergipark.org.tr)
- The Body/Brain Connection: Pilates for mental health (2020,pilates.org.au)
