5 Tips to Help You Keep Up With Your Pilates Practice: A blog post about the best ways to stay on top of your pilates class.
When you first start taking pilates classes, it can take a lot of work to keep up with the practice. You may feel like you need to do the exercises correctly or get the most out of your class. Here are five tips to help you keep up with your pilates practice: 1. Make sure you warm up before class. 2. Don't be afraid to ask the instructor for help. 3. Practice at home in between classes. 4. Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods. 5. Remember to cool down after class.
Set a Schedule
Assuming you're taking a regular weekly class, penciling in your class time on a physical or digital calendar can help ensure you make it to class regularly. However, if you have other regular commitments like work or family obligations, consider what time of day or week works best for you and stick with that schedule as much as possible.
Take your class at the same time each week. This will help your body get used to a routine and make it easier for you to show up consistently. However, if your schedule is more flexible, try to take a class at least three times a week to see and feel progress in your practice.
Get a Partner
It is always best to have a partner when taking a pilates class. This way, you can help and keep each other motivated. If you do not have a partner, it is still possible to take a class, but staying on top of your practice may be difficult. Here are some tips to help you keep up with your pilates class:
1. Get a partner: As mentioned before, having a partner in class will help you stay on top of your practice. If you do not have a partner, see if there is someone in the class that you can buddy up with.
2. Set realistic goals: Wait to try to do too much, or you will get overwhelmed and quickly give up. Set small goals that you can realistically achieve and build up from there.
3. Take it one step at a time: Try to learn only some of the moves in one class. Instead, focus on learning one activity or combination at a time and mastering it before moving on.
4. Practice at home: In between classes, make sure to practice at home so that you remember what you've learned in class. You can even invite your partner over to practice together!
5. Stay positive: Pilates can be challenging sometimes, but remember to stay positive and have fun!
Join a Pilates Community
When it comes to staying on top of your Pilates practice, one of the best things you can do is join a Pilates community. There are many benefits to being a part of a supportive group of like-minded individuals who share your interest in Pilates. For one, you can get feedback and encouragement from others in the group who are also working hard to improve their practice. Additionally, you can learn new techniques and tips from more experienced members of the community. And finally, being around others who appreciate Pilates can help keep you motivated to continue your practice.
If you need help figuring out where to start, there are many online communities dedicated to Pilates that you can join. Or, if you have a local studio or gym that offers classes, they may also have an associated community you can be a part of. No matter what route you choose, connecting with other Pilates enthusiasts will only enhance your experience and make it easier to stay on top of your practice.
Take It Slow
When starting a new fitness routine, taking things slow is essential. This is especially true for those who are new to Pilates. While this exercise regime has many benefits, it's vital to ease into it to avoid injury and maximize results.
Here are a few tips to help you take things slow as you start your Pilates practice:
1. Talk to your instructor: Before getting started, chat about your goals and concerns. They can help modify exercises or provide other tips to help make your experience more enjoyable (and safe!).
2. Don't be afraid to ask for breaks: If you feel like you need a break during class, don't be scared to ask for one! Your instructor will likely be happy to give you a quick pause so you can jump back in feeling refreshed.
3. Focus on form: As you're learning the various exercises, it's essential to focus on proper form. This will help prevent injuries and ensure you get the most out of each movement.
4. Take it at your own pace: Remember that there is no rush when starting Pilates – or any new exercise routine. Instead, go at a rate that feels comfortable for you and build up from there. Over time, you'll see significant improvements in your strength and flexibility.
Check Your Form
Regarding Pilates, proper form is vital to reap the full benefits of the workout and avoid injury. Here are a few tips to help you stay on top of your form:
1. Check your alignment. Make sure that your body is adequately aligned before starting any movement. This will help ensure that you work the correct muscles and avoid strain on your joints.
2. Focus on quality over quantity. It is better to do a few repetitions with perfect form than many with poor condition. Not only will this help reduce your risk of injury, but it will also help you get the most out of your workout.
3. Use props when necessary. If you need help maintaining proper form, feel free to use props such as yoga blocks or straps. This can help you maintain correct alignment while still getting a good workout.
4. Listen to your body. If something doesn't feel right or you start to experience pain, stop doing the exercise and consult a certified Pilates instructor before continuing.
Book A Port Moody & Coquitlam Pilates Class
Whether you just want to achieve a leaner, toned look, improve your range of movement or strength, or you’re recovering from an injury, come down to our Pilates Studio here in Port Moody and Coquitlam. Our expert instructors can help you design a plan that helps you recover quicker, get fitter faster, and stay active longer. You can book an appointment online, and our friendly staff is always available to answer any questions you may have.