There’s a reason why Pilates workouts are becoming so popular — it works your deep, inner core muscles, improve your posture, reduce back pain, and work on your flexibility and mobility. Pilates has been around for years — it was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century — but it’s recently boomed in popularity, with a number of celebrities crediting Pilates for creating toned muscles. Here’s what an hour of Pilates can do for your body.
The best part? Pilates is low-impact, so it's suitable for just about anyone. It’s often recommended by doctors and physiotherapists for athletes recovering from an injury, and most instructors will be able to offer modifications in classes. While it won’t leave you dripping in sweat, Pilates strengthens your body through small, repetitive movements. Classes can be done on an exercise mat, a reformer Pilates machine, or if you’re unable to travel, or don’t have the budget for a class, from home for free! Check out 9 of the best Pilates exercises for targeting your core here.
