For a long time, I believed that lifting heavy weights and going hard at the gym was the only way to achieve my fitness goals. And while weight training is essential for long-term fat burning and weight management, it was also causing me to suffer from severe lower back pain - specifically from leg training. That was until I discovered Reformer Pilates. In less than a month, this exercise form has completely transformed my body and helped me get rid of my debilitating back and neck pain.
The Connection Between Pilates and Pain Relief
Reformer Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for those who have frequent back and neck pain. This is because it offers a low-impact workout that tones the muscles without putting any undue pressure on the spine. The Pilates machine itself has a sliding carriage and various springs, which provide resistance and support to various muscle groups while simultaneously keeping the spine in a neutral position. Frequent Pilates practice helps to alleviate pain, realign the body, and leave individuals feeling stronger and more flexible.
Improved Core Strength
Reformer Pilates offers significant opportunities for core strength improvement. The exercises are focused on working out small, deep muscles that are often neglected in other forms of exercise. The Pilates machine can be adjusted to different resistance levels, making the exercises more challenging or easier as needed. The core muscles undergo extensive training through Pilates, leading to a very tight and toned waistline.
Increased Flexibility
Flexibility is key to avoiding injury during exercise and daily life activities. Reformer Pilates involves elongating the muscles, stretching them out in new and gentle ways, lengthening the spine, and opening up joints. The Pilates method complements the range of motion of joints in a non-weight-bearing way, allowing for greater flexibility and range of motion.
Toning and Tightening
Reformer Pilates is an ideal form of exercise for those who want to tone and tighten their muscles, especially in their midsection, without bulking up. In traditional weight training, lifting heavy weights using resistance machines can cause muscles to grow, leading to a bulkier figure. However, Reformer Pilates is a low-impact variation that targets the small, deep muscles in the body that are often ignored in more traditional forms of exercise.
Improved Mind-Body Connection
Reformer Pilates exercises are slow and deliberate, which helps practitioners become more connected to their bodies. It's important to practice maximum control and intention during each movement while also maintaining a level of relaxation. This form of exercise encourages breathing techniques and helps improve the flow of oxygen throughout the body, enhancing mental clarity and focus.
Reformer Pilates has been a life-changing discovery for me in terms of pain relief and toning my body. It’s an enjoyable, low-impact workout that has left me feeling more energised, less tension, and with a tighter waistline. Even as I continue weight training, now much lighter, and supplementing with Pilates, I get to see gains and am excited about feeling and looking my best in my 40s. I encourage anyone looking to tone and tighten their entire body while reducing their chances of getting injured in the process to try Reformer Pilates. It could be the solution to your health goals!
Clio x
