Pilates Reformer Workouts Help With Stress Relief
Pilates is widely known for its ability to strengthen muscles, but it can also do wonders for your mental health. In fact, a new study shows that regular reformer workouts can reduce the effects of stress on the body and mind.
The pilates reformer workouts machine looks like a giant sliding rectangular box with straps, pulleys and spring-based resistance systems attached to it. It can be intimidating for beginners who aren’t used to the equipment, but instructors can help scale the workout to meet the needs of each student.
Unlike other high-intensity exercises, low impact reformer workouts are easy on the joints and can even help alleviate injuries from other types of exercise. This makes it ideal for students recovering from injuries or those with pre-existing conditions, including arthritis.
Reformer classes are an effective way to build core strength and improve posture, which can make a big difference in overall physical and mental wellbeing. A strong core can help improve posture, relieve back pain and correct muscle imbalances.
In a reformer class, you lie on the carriage of the machine (which is connected to the end of the frame by springs) and use your body weight to move the machine up and down as it uses its springs to create resistance. As you do so, your instructor will guide you through a series of movements, helping you to engage and strengthen the core, which can lead to improved balance, stability and flexibility.
Can Pilates Reformer Workouts Help With Stress Relief?
Pilates helps to improve flexibility and mobility, but it’s important to understand the difference between the two. Flexibility is passive stretching of the muscle while mobility is active movement through the full range of motion of a joint. Achieving a balance of both is necessary for optimal functionality and injury prevention. Pilates is a great tool to achieve this as it can stretch and strengthen the same muscle simultaneously.
In addition to building core strength, reformer Pilates workouts can improve posture and reduce back pain. The method strengthens the muscles of the spine and can support proper breathing, which can relieve symptoms of chronic back pain or lower the risk of future injuries. Moreover, reformer Pilates works opposing muscle groups to balance the core and eliminate imbalances.
Finally, a recent study showed that Pilates can help reduce the symptoms of dysmenorrhea, which is painful menstrual periods. This is because the practice increases core strength and pelvic floor muscles, which can help alleviate pain from menstrual cramps and other issues.
Aside from its mental health benefits, reformer Pilates is a fantastic workout for everyone. Its low-impact nature and ease of use means it can be adapted to any fitness level, from beginner to professional athlete. It’s even been shown to improve running performance and help reduce the metabolic cost of a 5K, as found in a 2018 study. It’s never too late to try it! Just check with your doctor or physiotherapist first to ensure the class is safe for you.
