How to get started with Pilates at home

While Pilates can initially seem very daunting and challenging, there are a few steps that everyone can keep in mind in order to make the experience better and easier.

Pilates are extremely convenient because they are a suitable option for both beginners or regular fitness enthusiasts. The primary focus of Pilates is in building strength, functionality, and stability in a suitable and sustainable manner. Pilates are simple and therefore, it can even be done from home.

Pilates is also for everyone, regardless of size, strength, age, ability, or gender. It consists of over 600 exercises and variations ranging from easy to extremely difficult.

But before we begin with Pilates, we must understand what it really is and how is it different from yoga.

What is Pilates?

While it was originally called ‘contrology’, it became known as Pilates after its founder Joseph H. Pilates in the early 20^th century. It was invented as a form of physical rehabilitation and Mr. Pilates had trained and healed a number of people from all walks of life, including a number of performers.

A low-impact style of working out, Pilates has a specific effect on dedicated muscles and ends up increasing and enhancing overall strength.

The benefits of Pilates are several and include strong core, greater flexibility, improved posture, stronger muscles, and more defined look among others. It also leads to greater focus on breathing techniques.

How are Pilates different from Yoga?
While Pilates and Yoga are often confused because they are both low-impact, low-intensity and can be done by anyone without any specific equipment. Several exercises in Pilates and Yoga may also appear similar but there’s one fundamental difference. Yoga is usually a meditative and spiritual practice and it also puts a lot of emphasis on stretching and flexibility. Meanwhile, Pilates tend to focus more towards physical rehabilitation. Pilates also focus more on core strength.

Now that we know what Pilates are and how they are different from yoga, let’s answer as to how we can get started with Pilates at home.

How to get started with Pilates at home

The first thing that needs to be done while getting started with Pilates at home is to have a dedicated space for workouts. Just about enough room for a yoga mat on the floor is sufficient and it can be done in the bedroom, living room, backyard and even the balcony. The only consideration is that the ground needs to be flat and even.

There are also a few pieces of equipment that can make it easier to get started. These often include yoga mat, dumbbells, resistance bands, chair, small towel or slider, skipping rope and ankle weights.

When beginning with Pilates, it is also necessary to keep in mind that it is a journey and not a race. Consistency is as important as the initial momentum.

Pilates also focus on the entire body and while one muscle group may remain static, the other ends up moving. Therefore, control and dedicated precision are important attributes to have in mind.

Much like yoga, breathing is also important here as it can lead to greater cardiovascular strength and increased lung capacity and mindfulness.