It’s no secret that Pilates is one of the best types of training out there for strengthening your core, but, despite it being low-impact, not all of the exercises are exactly easy (yep, we’re looking at you plank and scissor-kicks). This five-move workout from Pilates By Bryony is ideal for beginners as not only does it require no equipment, apart from an exercise mat, but you'll be able to work your way through it in less than 30 minutes.
An impressive-looking set of abs is often the goal when it comes to our midsection, but this workout takes things one step further targeting our deeper core muscles – the ones that support the trunk of our body and help us remain stable and balanced. Pilates is renowned for this, as well as improving posture, enhancing mobility and flexibility. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning found that those who practiced Pilates for one hour, twice a week over a 12-week period saw improvements in abdominal endurance, hamstring flexibility and upper body strength.
