Pilates Modifications
Pilates shouldn't be painful for beginners so don't be afraid to use modifications offered for the exercises. Bent knees versus straight legs, head and neck support, and moving at a slower pace are all acceptable modifications. A Pilates teacher will tell you that the number one thing is not to get hurt. Listen to your body and if something feels off or too strenuous, modify or skip that exercise.
Pilates Modifications
One of the great things about Pilates is that it can be practiced every single day, and even a beginner can jump into daily practice. You may want to mix up your workouts and take an easier class one day and a more challenging one the next day. Alternatively, you can choose a class that focuses more on the abdominals one day and glutes the next. The beauty of Pilates is that in using your entire body, you have many directions and options with over 500 exercises in the repertoire from which to choose.
The Core
Although Pilates is known for core work, it is a full-body workout. While you may be focusing on your core, your arms and legs are also being trained with Pilates exercises. Pilates is an incredibly dynamic movement practice that incorporates your breath, balance, and focus with strength and flexibility training.
Time
Many people like to schedule their Pilates practice for first thing in the morning so that nothing gets in the way and their bodies are ready to take on the day. Other practitioners like to end their day with Pilates, as it is a great way to wind down and undo all the stresses of your day. Listen to your body to figure out which time of day works best for you.
You are never too old to begin your Pilates practice. If you are 60+ years and active, you are ready to start! If you have any pre-existing conditions or have not been active for a while, we recommend you consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise. It's never too late to learn to move your body more efficiently and with Pilates, you can regain your strength, flexibility, and mobility. Remember, take your time. Pilates requires focus, attention, deliberate movement, and staying aware of your body. Err on the side of caution, slow down, and modify exercises as needed. By practicing regularly, you will begin to feel the positive impact of Pilates.
Pilates Modifications
Practicing beginner Pilates at least twice a week is enough to notice a difference in your strength, flexibility, and balance. If you feel great and love your Pilates practice from the start, feel free to add a third day to your weekly routine. Listening to our bodies is sometimes something we have to relearn as we grow up. Remember that our bodies show up for us differently each day. This is true of children, teenagers, young adults, a forty-year-old, and even you. Allow Pilates to do its job for your body by meeting it wherever it is on any given day.
ChaiseFitness Pilates Studio in Upper East Side
At ChaiseFitness, we believe that anyone can be fit—no matter what skill level or body type. This belief inspired the creation of our patented Reinvention Method, which is for everyone—the athlete, the dancer, the beginner, the advanced, the rebuilder. We blend Pilates, ballet, and strength training and equip you with a chair and overhead bungees so that you work out all your muscles every time. We are located in the Upper East Side in Manhattan. For more information, you can contact us at (973)996-2063, or visit our website.
