For the uninitiated, Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout focussing on slow, controlled movements aligned with breathwork, with a central tenet of core stability. Developed in the early 20th century by German boxer Joseph Pilates, it originally evolved as a form of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, before becoming popular with New York’s elite dancers and celebrities, spawning a worldwide movement that’s still going from strength to strength over cem years later.
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Visible muscle tone comes from both building lean muscle and reducing body fat. Pilates alone may not be the most efficient path to fat loss, but it prepares the body for higher-intensity exercise and supports better movement patterns. For optimal toning, Pilates works best alongside cardiovascular exercise and dietary changes.
Pilates can help build lean muscle mass, but if it’s covered by excess body fat, those defined muscles won’t be as visible.
Pilates gives you a strong base for all your movements by consistently working out and strengthening this central area. A strong core helps you stand up straighter, flatten your stomach, and look slimmer.
“A Pilates practice requires so much focus that it can completely take you away from the stresses and strains of daily life,” advises Folkard, “which gives it a
The term “toning” as applied to exercise was likely introduced to the fitness world as a marketing term. Its purpose? To encourage women to do strength training during decades body club when the concept of gaining muscle bulk was considered unfeminine and therefore off putting to women.
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We are unable to match our clients with partners, but please feel free to connect with other clients or invite a friend to join you.
Athletes love using our Springboard and Reformer equipment to safely increase flexibility. Our Tower Circles open up the shoulders and thoracic spine, combatting poor posture and freeing up your breath. Regain your range of motion with Pilates!
Lean and toned up body isn’t just a far-fetched fantasy. Check out the BetterMe app and watch it propel your weight loss journey into high gear!
My shoulder was dislocated and ultimately, surgically repaired. I’ve been told that rehab for a shoulder is the worst part, but Dr. Jenna Smiith has made the whole process bearable. She measures progress every visit and tailors the stretches and exercises to my individual performance, or lack of. Her enthusiasm is contagious and helps to motivate me to do the stretches every day, and usually a couple of times per day. She spends time and studies how I’m moving and adjusts each stretch to maximize my efforts.
Pilates is for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner, recovering from an injury, or looking for a low-impact alternative to traditional workouts, Pilates can be modified to fit any fitness level.
Being more aware of your body lets you use the right muscles during workouts, which makes them more effective and makes sure your body is working well to tone and shape.