Some people regard Pilates to be easier while others consider it to be the hardest workout they have ever done. If you’re doing it right all I can say is it isn’t easy! The intensity level won’t be reflected in the amount you sweat, but in the correct performance of the exercises. In Pilates, there is no correlation between sweat and effort (unless you are doing hot pilates in a heated room!) To perform Pilates exercises correctly requires full concentration, body awareness and precise focus on the breath, the pelvic floor muscles and engagement of the deep internal core muscles. It is this focus and mind-body connection that people have to work hard to master.

All Pilates movements are designed to originate from the core and to work in sync with the breath. Correct movement requires fluidity and flow. It is very elegant. It looks effortless while actually recruiting a whole lot of focus and internal muscle strength. It is beautiful, stylish, sophisticated. It is intrinsic, natural and beautiful. It can be perfected over time.

Many fitness fanatics and gym junkies often laugh Pilates off and deem it to be easy. I encourage them to give it a go and do it correctly with focus and breath to movement coordination and then reassess this judgment!

With Pilates, you really get out of it what you put in. The hardest thing is to make a routine and a regular commitment to Pilates and to stick to it. The mind body connection requires more work than the typical gym visit! Be patient with yourself, this is something that takes time but all be well worth the effort.

I often think of Pilates as moving mindfulness or mindful movement. One day your body and mind will simply sync beautifully as you perform the movements. You will gain strength, flexibility and confidence. At this point, load can be intensified. There is always a next level in Pilates - you can always progress.

How to Increase the Intensity of your Pilates Sessions

Increasing time

Increasing repetitions

Adding pulses

Adding half moves

Reducing rest time

Changing tempo

Adding load ie dumbbells, booty bands, leg weights, Bala bangles, reformer springs.

Pilates can be hard, and Pilates can be less hard! It is the versatility of Pilates that I adore so much. For example, a Recharge Plus Pilates Props or Recharge Plus Pilates Circuit style class can be very hard indeed. That is when we use accessories and props to create a stronger toll on the core and other muscle groups, and then play with timing and tempo. The pilates reformer bed and other apparatus can have this affect too. Recharge Plus Beginners Pilates classes are just that - for the complete novice. Pilates exercises can also be adapted for seniors, rehabilitation and prenatal and postnatal women. There is something for everyone with pilates, regardless of age, gender and ability level.

When you make Pilates a part of your weekly routine, you will feel like your core is stronger, you are walking taller and you are more aware of your posture. You will feel proud that you are working on your strength and tone form the inside out. Everything will just feel tighter and firmer and like its ‘sitting together’ better! Don’t knock it until you try it. Pilates is a great form of low intensity exercise that offers something for all fitness levels.

Recharge Plus on Demand offers Beginner classes for total novices and Pilates Props and Pilates Circuit for the more advanced Pilates guru.

Enjoy!

IS PILATES EASY?

THE HISTORY OF PILATES

ACTIVATE YOUR GLUTES!

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