LucyComments Off on 5 Easy Ways to Prepare for a Pilates Workout
Pilates is an exercise method that helps keep the body strong and lean without making the muscles bulky. It also develops other capacities such as mental and physical coordination, flexibility, and better posture. Hence, if you are new to this fitness regimen, then it is best to make the most out of your sessions in order to achieve these benefits.
Due to its seemingly demanding routines, many people think that Pilates is hard to practice. However, just like other fitness techniques, it takes time to get used to Pilates. Pilates for beginners sessions usually discuss about the physical and mental requisites of the regimen, so you know how to prepare for the upcoming routines.
Below are 5 ways you can prepare yourself for a Pilates workout, in case you have just enrolled in a class and would like to make the most out of it.
Stretch!
Doing a cardio exercise is not necessary when preparing for a Pilates session, but it is recommended that you do some stretching on the day of your class. Stretching helps a lot in warming up the muscles, not to mention make them more flexible once you are in the session.
Stretching can be done in the morning so that you will feel awake throughout the day, including when you are already in the Pilates class. Stretching also preps your muscles for the routines you will be doing, and prevent them from feeling sore and painful at the end of the day.
Wear the right clothing.
It is very important that you wear comfortable clothing when attending a Pilates class. A lot of movement will take place during a Pilates session, and by wearing something comfortable you are able to move with ease and not feel stiff. Comfortable clothing does not necessarily equate to loose, though. You may want to ask around for clothes suitable for Pilates workouts so you exactly what to wear in class.
Since Pilates classes are done on the floor (using Pilates mats), it is also recommended that you wear socks in class. Socks prevent the feet from slipping or sliding, especially when the movements become more complicated.
Avoid the accessories.
As mentioned earlier, Pilates routines follow different movements, so it is not recommended to wear accessories during the workout. You may want to refrain from wearing watches, earrings, necklaces and other forms of jewellery when in session. These not only make you feel heavy when following the routine movements; they may also put you in unwanted situations-such as accidents or injuries in the middle of a workout.
Should you eat before a Pilates class?
Pilates can be physically draining, so you have to eat before going to a workout session. Of course, the body cannot run on empty, and it is important that you have the right amount of energy to use for Pilates.
You may eat a full meal at least 2 hours before a Pilates workout. This gives the stomach ample time to rest prepare the energy you will be using for the session. You are also able to burn the calories you consumed once you start doing the Pilates routines.
However, if you want to have a snack prior to Pilates, it’s best to stick to something light, such as fruit and green vegetables, as these keep your stomach full but not stressed during a strenuous Pilates routine.
Bring water!
Pilates for beginners can be very exhausting, especially when the body has not yet adjusted to the physical requisites of the exercise. You may easily feel dehydrated in the middle or after a class. It is then recommended that you bring your own supply of water which you can consume each time you feel thirsty, as this keeps you refreshed and energized while performing Pilates movements.
Lucy is a fashion blogger with an interest in all things style-related. She loves trying out different styles and adapting them to her own life; she also likes to share what she’s learned along the way.
