Pilates: Physical and Mental Strength

‘Influencers’ are called influencers for a reason. Tik Tok has us constrained with all the crazy trends, fitness routines, popular recipes, and products we ‘should’ be using to have that ‘perfect’, healthy lifestyle. In reality, staying true to yourself, dressing how you like, exercising the way you like, is your own version of a healthy lifestyle, because what works for others, might not work for you; and that is more than OK!

However, whilst still considering that negative aspect of social media, I do admit to my daily indulge on Tik Tok to discover new recipes, new fitness regimes, and styling inspiration. I think it is important to highlight the word, ‘inspired’. Allowing yourself to be inspired by these trends, but not doing it because everyone else is implementing it into their day to day lives.

I was inspired by the Pilates trend and tried it for myself, as it seemed core based, more about ability and strength, something I had previously done through Ballet and Gymnastics; so, I felt this could possibly be the workout for me. Before Pilates, I never really liked working out, it very much felt like a chore and I would always overdo it, causing me to feel sick, and with little benefit; going against the classic quote, “the only workout you will regret, is the one you didn’t do”. I regretted the workout and would have rather not felt sick, this may have just been the result of not finding my ‘thing’ in the exercise realm.

Starting off with the ‘Beginner Pilates’ routine, immediately illustrated my capabilities, and discovered that I thoroughly enjoyed it. I now do Pilates three to four times a week, with one adult ballet class. It took me time to discover what suited me and if I had not experimented with the other ways to exercise, I would not have understood this. As an example, you may try Pilates and never want to do it again because weight training or spin classes may be more your thing! Pilates has allowed me to consider Yoga, and functional strength training, which is also similar to Pilates.

Pilates has grown in popularity, and I do believe this is due to Tik Tok and social media. My sister has recently completed a Personal Training course. As it is growing rapidly, she felt that it was important Pilates was taught and added to the course. It allows exercise to be more about strength, balance, flexibility, and breathe, still resulting in muscle pain the next day, even if it does not necessarily feel it in the moment.

Exercise in general, is known to aid in mental health, producing endorphins, and supporting overall happiness. Personally, I can say that Pilates and ballet has definitely helped with all of the above, specifically anxiety and relaxation; creating that mind and body connection.

Pilates is a great way to work on core strength and ability, and if you are still possibly discovering what exercise suits you, maybe give Pilates a go! It can be adapted to different abilities and goals. However, there are so many ways out there to move your body, and experimenting with them to find what makes you feel your best is key!

Images/Edit/Words By Alice Abel