I absolutely love Pilates, and I’ll rave about it to anyone who will listen.
I have been a dancer before I could walk. I loved being able to move freely to the music and entertaining others.
I was first introduced to Pilates by one of my dance teachers, Miss Kylie. She raved about the benefits of mat pilates and linked it to the longevity of a dance career. I loved these mat pilates classes as a way of building my core strength and having six-pack abs because, as a teenager, that was super important to me.
I didn’t really become addicted to Pilates until later in life when I found reformer pilates a full-body fitness workout. Over the years, I have tried many different types of training, but nothing has left my body feeling incredible from the inside out like Pilates- especially reformer Pilates. Which for those who are pilates novices, the reformer was invented by Pilates founder Joseph Pilates. It is a bed-like frame with a flat platform on it, called the carriage, which rolls back and forth on wheels within the frame. The carriage is attached to one end of the reformer by a set of springs.
I fell in love with KX Pilates at Bondi junction as it was a challenging full-body workout involving mental and physical aspects. Instantly I wanted to learn more and be able to teach others. So I became a fully qualified mat and reformer Pilates instructor in 2019. I have been teaching with the KX Pilates family for two years and now have joined the B Pilates family as well. Being a Pilates instructor never feels like work as it is so enjoyable. It is a passion of mine to be able to help all types of people develop their skills on the reformer or the Pilates mat.
Health benefits of pilates
Improved flexibility
In Pilates, you work toward a safe increase in length and stretch of the muscles to improve the range of motion within the joints. Having a body that can stretch and bend to meet the flow of everyday life is very important, especially as we age.
Pilates develops core strength
The core muscles of the body are the deep muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvic floor. We rely on these muscles to support a strong, supple back, good posture, and efficient movement patterns. When our core is strong, the frame of the body is supported. Our neck and shoulders can relax, and the rest of our muscles and joints are free to do their jobs (but don’t have to do more).
A nice side benefit is that core training promotes flat abs. Pilates can help you learn how to pull in your belly correctly to get the most out of your pelvic floor. It is also great for pre or post-natal women.
Pilates promotes a long, lean body figure aiding in weight loss
If you practice Pilates regularly, it will change your body. It is well known for creating long, strong muscles and providing a leaner look. Pilates improves your muscle tone, balances musculature, supports beautiful posture, and teaches you to move with ease and grace.
Pilates increases our mind and muscle connection
This is a secret of Pilates workout. When we practice each movement with our total attention, the body and mind unite to bring forth the most benefit possible from each exercise.
Improved posture
In Pilates, we pay a lot of attention to how our body parts are aligned. It is essential to be aware of the relation to each other, which is called alignment. Good posture is a reflection of good alignment and is supported by a strong core. It is a position from which one can move freely. Starting with a Pilates fundamentals/beginners class is a great start.
Improve back pain
Back pain has many causes however, Pilates may not be suitable for all of them. If you have back pain, especially serious or chronic back pain, please check with your health care practitioner before beginning a Pilates program. If you do choose to start Pilates, it is vital to work with a fully certified instructor. Someone who can provide a balanced program and guide you through exercises that rehabilitate and strengthen your whole body.
So step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Your body will definitely be thanking you with all the added health benefits, plus a whole lot of fun and a community of new people to meet.
There are so many incredible Pilates studios out there, but if you know you love a fast pace workout. I recommend you check out KX Pilates as they have studios all over Australia.
If you would like to try one of my classes, check out my Instagram @wolfffyy to find out what classes I am taking and what studio I am working in. Or send me an email to
hello@alannahwolff.com.au
Love Wolfffyy xxx
