Starting any form of physical activity can be quite intimidating, especially if you have zero experience in exercising. We are often clueless about things that we should or shouldn’t do. The same confusion comes when we join our first ever Pilates class.
You may have been invited by a friend to come join a Pilates class, or you’ve made the wise decision of getting toned and fit without being overly dependent on dieting.
From an outsider’s perspective, Pilates may look easy but it’s actually an intense exercise discipline that requires physical and mental preparation. It tones the muscles, strengthens the core, enhances flexibility, and even promises to help speed up weight loss.
Before you sign up for your first ever Pilates class in the best Pilates class in Fitzroy North, there are a few things that you need to remember. Some are basic etiquette while some are very specific to Pilates practitioners only. It’s also imperative to follow these dos and don’ts so you can maximize the benefits of joining Pilates in the long run.
Good Technique is Key to Pilates
Proper technique is key if you want to make the most of your Pilates class. It doesn’t matter if you’re the best Pilates class in Fitzroy North, if you are unable to execute the movements property you may find yourself not noticing any change over time, or worse get injured while in class.
Focus on mastering the technique, so you can slowly see the positive changes to your body and skills. We’re not perfect, so go easy if you commit mistakes during the first few repetitions.
Believe me, Pilates is a tough workout regimen. I felt sore and aching all over after my first class but over time I was able to get the technique right and started experiencing positive changes, including an improvement in my core strength, endurance, mobility, and many more.
Improper technique results in injuries due to the imbalances and compensations that your body adapts to during movements.
Remove Any Misconceptions about Pilates
There are many misconceptions regarding Pilates, with majority being nothing but false claims and statements by people who never really got to try it our first hand. Before joining the best Pilates class in Fitzroy North, I did have my own misconceptions about Pilates – that it’s the perfect exercise for me as it is designed for older people.
The truth of the matter is that Pilates is a workout discipline that benefits men and women across all ages. More men and women in their 20s and 30s practice Pilates due to its many challenging movements.
It is just as effective as more rigorous exercises at your traditional gym. The only difference is that Pilates makes use of a different set of techniques, movements, and equipment. Pilates can be tailored fit to match your needs or preferences. It can be as gentle but effective as you want it to be, or intense if you want it to be.
Here are a Few Reminders for Pilates Newbies
• Be a YES Man or Woman
Exercise is all about challenging your body. You enrolled at a Pilates class because you want to learn new ways to improve your physical fitness and wellness. If an instructor asks you to show him or her how to pull off a certain movement, make sure to say YES and proceed with the movement.
Saying NO or constantly refusing to challenge your body won’t give you the progress you desire. During my first few weeks in Pilates, I took baby steps and stood up to the challenges that my instructor raised to me. I took all of them by stride and over time, I was looking for more advanced movements that can get me closer to my goals.
• Small Changes Lead to Major Progress
Don’t expect a dramatic change on how you look and feel after your first Pilates try. Even the best Pilates class in Fitzroy North can’t give you the toned body that you want after your first few classes. Your body will undergo small but progressive changes with consistent Pilates classes.
Of course, we all have fitness goals: we want to get that trimmed waist and toned abs, but we can’t accomplish these things right away. Just focus on improving your technique and perfecting every movement.
We hope these gentle reminders can motivate you and increase your excitement for your first ever session in the best Pilates class in Fitzroy North.
