Have you ever heard about Pilates, but thought it wasn’t for you? You’re not alone! We understand that there can be a lot of confusion and misconceptions when considering such an impactful lifestyle shift.
Good news! That’s why we consulted with an experienced Pilates instructor on the realities behind this popular form of exercise – she knows just what to say to help clear up the fog around these myths regarding the Pilates practice.
Join us as we dive into her advice so that together, all readers have access to reliable information before making their own unique decision towards wellbeing regardless of fitness level.
Ivory Howard is here to debunk some of the most long-standing myths that students have been told when it comes to learning. Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of knowledge and get ready for an illuminating look into the truths behind these misconceptions!
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Ivory Howard understands that everyone’s relationship with health and wellness is different, and she seeks to honor that with her work. She provides her clients with challenging workouts focused on strength, balance, and flexibility to help them reach their health and fitness goals.
She is a certified yoga and Pilates instructor. She also received her Master of Public Health and advanced training in plant-based nutrition.
She’s been seen in US News and World Report, Weight Watchers, The Zoe Report, Sisters from AARP, and other publications for helping others achieve their health and fitness goals.
How would you describe what the basis of Pilates is?
Pilates is a form of exercise that was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. He called his method Contrology which refers to the way the exercises encourage the use of the mind to control the muscles. These exercises focus on awareness of breath, alignment of the spine, and strength of the core postural muscles.
Why do you believe Pilates has become so popular?
Pilates is a low-impact exercise that requires little to no equipment. If you cannot run or enjoy other high-impact exercises, you can try Pilates and still get a great workout. If it’s unsafe to walk where you live, you can practice Pilates at home.
If you cannot purchase workout equipment, you can still practice Pilates at home without buying a thing. Making Pilates more accessible to women, especially women of color could help meet them meet the recommended CDC guidelines for physical and muscle-strengthening activity and prevent many chronic diseases that plague people of color.
I’m on a mission to ensure that more women know that exercise and a plant-based diet can prevent many chronic lifestyle diseases and leading causes of death in the United States. I want to continue to make it easier for women to be active to help them avoid preventable chronic diseases like stroke, diabetes, and cancer. And if you have a chronic disease, I want you to know that it’s not hopeless. You can live a long, healthy, and active life.
Debunking Top Myths About Pilates
Myth 1 – Pilates is for women
Did you know that Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates for men? When he first opened his New York studio, many of his clients were men who were boxers, wrestlers, and other athletes of varying disciplines. Despite its slow, careful movements, Pilates isn’t just for women. Many men, including professional athletes, benefit from practicing Pilates.
Myth 2 – Pilates is easy
Pilates may look easy. However, it is a challenging workout emphasizing the importance of core stability, core strength, balance, and flexibility to prevent injury and improve athletic performance. Many are surprised at how sore they are after a Pilates session. Pilates is one of the most challenging and rewarding workouts, given how it can transform your body.
Myth 3 – You have to be flexible to practice Pilates
You’re always flexible for Pilates. Hilaria Baldwin once said, “You’re always flexible for Pilates.” The same goes for Pilates. With consistent practice, you will see a change in your flexibility.
It just takes a patient approach to see progress in your flexibility.
Myth 4 – You can’t get strong practicing Pilates
With mat Pilates, you use your body weight for a challenging workout. Mat Pilates requires no other equipment than an exercise mat, so you can practice anywhere. The benefits of Pilates include not only increased flexibility, joint health, and improved balance but also greater strength – all things that are important as you age.
Myth 5 – You must be young to practice Pilates
You don’t have to be young to practice Pilates. You can enjoy Pilates at any age. However, during class, remember to take the class at your own pace and modify poses to best suit you. These are two things that we – no matter our age – must remember when practicing Pilates.
Myth 6 – Reformer Pilates is better
You don’t have to go to a Pilates studio for Reformer Pilates to practice Pilates. Instead, you can practice Pilates at home on an exercise mat and get a great workout. When I started practicing Pilates, I watched the same DVD repeatedly until I was ready to commit to a studio and an instructor.
With consistent practice, your practice will advance. The DVD remains the same, but your practice will progress. If you need more time to be ready to visit a studio, a DVD or my online membership is a great alternative.
How can our readers book online Pilates sessions with you?
I’ll help you maintain a consistent workout routine so you can easily reach your health and fitness goals. You can visit http://www.ivoryhoward.com to book a session, join my online membership, or sign up for an online course.
Pilates being everywhere and the myths associated with the practice
Pilates is a workout for the entire body and is a good option for those considering taking classes soon. With a yoga mat, an open mind, floor space, and Ivory online sessions in tow, you can take on Pilates easily as a home practice.
When starting Pilates, every session will leave you thinking every sequence was an advanced exercise but keep doing the work. As Pilates becomes a lifestyle, you will see your strength and flexibility increase.
