Pilates Workouts | Pilates Exercise

Many new Pilates participants are often surprised about how challenging many of the pilates workouts feel. However, don't let this keep you from your pilates practice. Like any new exercise routine, pilates may seem hard at first, but finally your body begins to "learn" the different movements and you start to see results.
The trick is to stick with pilates workouts long enough so that you can see and feel the difference of regular pilates practice. So let’s find out why do Pilates workouts seem so difficult at first?

Complete Movement Of Your Body

Pilates workout requires your body to complete several movements and poses that you do not execute on a normal basis. Your body is probably not used to working certain muscles or executing certain strengthening movements.
The real trick is to start slowly and to let your body gradually adapt to the new movements. Like your mind, your body needs practice before it can learn and memorize certain movements and poses.

Enroll Into A Pilates Class

If you find that you are having difficulty learning the movements and poses from your at-home pilates video or DVD workout, it's a good idea to consult your local pilates studio or enroll in a pilates class.
Taking at least one or two lessons with a professionally certified Pilates instructor can make a world of difference. An experienced instructor can teach you the right way to complete certain movements.
They can guide you and teach you new ways to adapt movements to your specific fitness level or physical shape. Even if you think you cannot afford to join a professional pilates studio, simply taking one or two pilates classes can give you the foundation you require to continue with your pilates practice in the comfort of your own home.
The good news is that just about anyone can do Pilates workouts. Joseph Pilates designed his routine so that it can be adapted to each participant's needs. The Pilates Method was actually designed so that it can eventually be practiced alone.

Pilates Machines

It is also a progressive system that is designed to continually challenge even the most experienced participant. As you progress in your practice of Pilates workouts, you may want to graduate from mat work into the realm of pilates machines.
These can be more challenging and may need supervision as you learn to use the pilates apparatus safely and efficiently.
Remember that the most significant thing when starting out is to stay committed and to practice on a regular basis. This is crucial if you want your body to learn the new movements and routines that will soon become second nature to your body.
Although Pilates workouts is not as rigorous as running, cycling or swimming it is an excellent form of exercise to engage in to counteract any damage or strain placed on the body from sports. It’s a great compliment!
All Pilates workouts concentrate on slow, deep breathing accompanied by slow, flowing movements. The key to remember is to never rush any movement so that you highlight proper form while staying relaxed and in tune with your body.

Single Leg Circle Exercise

Some common Pilates workouts practiced in many Pilates classes are the single leg circle exercise. This Pilates exercise has the individual lie on their back while raising their right leg straight up into the air and slowly extend the leg into five huge circles with the heel of the foot.

This Pilates workout is repeated with the opposite leg as well focusing on hip and abdominal strength.