If you’re used to getting your pilates fix in a studio, the shift to online pilates classes can seem intimidating. How will I hit the right poses without a teacher physically present? Will I be less motivated to push myself? These are all questions you might be asking yourself as you consider shifting your pilates workout online. Whether you’re combining online classes with in-person gym sessions or working out at home exclusively, we can help you prepare, sweat, and feel great!
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a low-impact exercise that strengthens muscles, improves your posture, and increases your flexibility. A typical Pilates workout is 45 to 60 minutes long and may use accessories such as bands, a pilates ball, or a foam roller. Not all classes use accessories, but at the very least you will need a mat for floor exercises.
Pilates will work your upper and lower body through core work and leg and arm exercises. While Pilates targets your core, remember that your core includes your entire trunk, including your abs, hips, thighs, and back. You will do exercises that will engage those areas, as well as your arms and legs. Your entire body will be stretched and strengthened.
What are some Pilates moves I can do at home?
Each teacher has a unique teaching style, but you can expect some of these Pilates exercises to make an appearance at your next class! These exercises require only a mat, so you can do them in an online class.
The Hundred: Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this popular and dynamic exercise will warm up your lungs and core muscles.
You will lie on your back, with your head, neck and shoulders lifted and your abdominal muscles engaged.
Your arms will be extended just a few inches off the ground.
On the inhale you will begin to move your arms up and down slightly for a 5-second count and continue moving them on the exhale.
If this seems easy, it’s not! The Hundred is a challenging yet low-impact exercise that will work your core and arms.
Leg circles: Though this one seems self-explanatory you might be asking yourself “How big are the circles?”
You will start on your back with your legs extended on the floor with your arms by your sides.
You will then extend your leg straight toward the ceiling.
As you inhale, move the extended leg up and over the body in a large circle. As you exhale, lower the leg down towards the center line in a circling motion as you bring it to the starting position.
Use controlled movements and don’t forget about the other leg!
What are the benefits of online Pilates classes?
Pilates will help you do everything better, from moving more smoothly to reaching something from the top shelf a little easier. Improved posture and flexibility are a few of the other benefits. Pilates also has a positive effect on mental health and energy levels.
Online Pilates classes offer all of the above benefits, minus the commute to a studio. In our busy lives, traveling to another location to work out can be a deterrent to getting exercise! Working out at home means your “pilates studio” is always there! All you need is your computer, an internet connection, and your Pilates mat. Note that Pilates mats are thicker than yoga mats to cushion the joints.
Some students may feel more comfortable working out at home without the audience of other participants. Although Pilates is not a competitive form of exercise, it’s easy to look over at your neighbor and marvel at their flexibility and strength. At-home workouts remove this aspect and allow you to focus only on yourself.
How Enhancewell Fitness can help
Our classes are capped at 10 participants so you get individualized attention. We also offer private lessons to suit your individual goals. Our online Pilates community is here to support you on your fitness journey! Check out our schedule here and we’ll see you in class!
