Pilates for Men: 6 Reasons Men Should Do Pilates
Written by Ashley Taylor, NCPT, and originally posted on taylorpilatesandfitness.com.
What do LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, Tiger Woods — and Sylvester Stallone — have in common?
Yes, they are successful and well-known. But they also practice Pilates.
They are reaping the benefits of Pilates for men, and there’s no time like the present for you to explore a Pilates practice.
Here are six benefits of Pilates for men:
1. Full-body workout
Pilates is good for every body, whether you are an athlete playing basketball, soccer, football, golf, or an actor who boxes. Many men focus their exercise efforts on cardio, such as running or biking, and lifting weights. These exercises have valuable benefits, but they miss activating important muscle groups. When men practice Pilates, created by Joseph Pilates, they train the entire body, prevent muscle strains and injury, and increase their body’s range of motion.
2. Improves mobility and flexibility
When your body is limber, it isn’t restricted in movement; your joints have a full range of motion and your muscles have adequate length. When men are more mobile and flexible, their bodies move with greater comfort and more efficiently. Plus, mobility and flexibility lower your risk of injury.
3. Cross-training
LeBron (NBA), Cristiano (professional soccer), Tiger (PGA), and Sylvester practice Pilates to enhance their performance in their chosen sport/career and give them an edge over their competition. Pilates improves core strength and works “micro” muscles (the deep stabilizing muscles). While we aren’t all professional athletes, we all must perform in life and build endurance for daily activities. Pilates helps us move well and feel well on the court, at home, or in sports.
4. Mental clarity
Through a powerful body-mind connection, Pilates requires men to focus on breath and concentrate on form, building body awareness. Men who practice Pilates experience a decrease in cortisol, the stress hormone, and an increase in endorphins to improve mood. Much like practicing mindfulness in meditation, the body-mind connection you pay attention to in a Pilates session positively impacts your life outside the studio.
5. Core control and strength
Your balance, stability, athletic performance, and posture improve when you have a stronger core. With the whole-body movements of Pilates, you can reduce back pain and injury. Strong core muscles improve endurance and are important for spine health and comfort.
6. Improves sleep
One of the most important factors for overall health is adequate sleep. Studies show Pilates can improve sleep quality.
Pilates for men enhances and improves fitness. From mental clarity to a full-body workout, the many benefits of Pilates for men helps you move well, feel well, and live well. Please call or text Taylor Pilates and Fitness today at 303-472-6743 to schedule your introductory session.