Exercise You Can Use to Practice Pilates

Pilates is a very popular exercise method that can be done by just about anyone. This is because Pilates uses your core and your whole body to gain balance, strength, mobility, and flexibility. This can help you with your everyday activities as well as relieve low back pain and decrease the risk of you falling. With all these benefits in mind, it is time to learn some exercises that you can do at home or at your gym. Keep in mind that you will want to pick up an Airex Pilates Mat to do all these exercises:

Pilates 100

One of the most popular exercises for beginners in Pilates, the Pilates 100 will begin with you lying on your back on the Airex mat. Then, lift both of your legs up toward the ceiling so that they’re at a 45-degree angle. Curl up using your abdominal muscles and lift your head, neck and chest off the ground. Make sure you are extending your arms long alongside your body and that your palms are down. Then, pump your arms up and down as you inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts. Repeat this process 10 times while holding the position for a total of 100 pumps.

Leg Circle

Another beginner exercise that is very popular is the one-legged circle. To begin, lie on the Airex mat on your back with your arms at your sides and your palms down. Then, bend your left knee and place your left foot flat on the floor. Then exhale and lift your right leg up in the air. Make a circle with your right leg and try to not let your pelvis rock. Then, reverse the circle. Repeat this process 5 times in each direction before switching legs and repeating this whole exercise over again.

Twist and Reach

The twist and reach is an exercise that requires both an Airex Pilates mat and a CanDo® Resistance Band. To begin, sit with your legs spread out to about hip-distance apart. Hold the CanDo® Band between your hands as you raise your arms overhead. Then, use the muscles in your waist to turn to one side. Be sure to inhale as your turn and exhale as your as you return to the starting position. Then do the same thing on your other side. Alternate to each side for a total of four sets.

A lot of these Pilates exercises are super simple and effective at enhancing your overall health. Those of you who are new to Pilates should practice some of these exercises to get started. Be sure to focus on your breath, balance, and mind-body connection. This is key to making you strong and flexible for everyday life.

To check out our Airex Pilates Mat, click here.

To check out our CanDo Resistance Bands, click here.

Article written by William Graves.