Benefits of Pilates

When it comes to Pilates, most women either are die-hard enthusiasts or have never stepped foot in a Pilates studio. Are you in the latter group? Tons of research on the benefits of Pilates would suggest you switch camps. Check out the uniquely awesome power of Pilates.

 Benefits of Pilates: It's Ah-Mazing for Your Abs

Pilates hits your core (or, in Pilates speak, your "powerhouse") unlike any other workout. In fact, after completing 36 weeks of Pilates training, women strengthened their rectus abdominis (the muscle responsible for six-packs) by an average of 21 percent, while eliminating muscle imbalances between the right and left sides of their cores, according to a Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise study.

 Benefits of Pilates: It Can Ease Back Pain

A stronger core equals a better back, says Tracy Zindell, Flex Pilates Chicago founder and master instructor. That's why those with chronic lower back pain who practiced Pilates for just four weeks experienced more relief than those who visited a physician and other specialists, says a Journal of Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy study. What's more, their pain stayed away for a full year post-Pilates. Researchers believe that by stabilizing the core's lumbar-pelvic (lower-back) region, Pilates alleviates stress on the area and ups mobility.



 Benefits of Pilates: It's Easy on Your Joints

Pilates' slow and controlled movements puts minimal impact on your joints. Bonus if you're using the Pilates reformer: "The padding on a Pilates reformer is as thick as 10 yoga mats," says Zindell. "It takes the pressure off of your back and knees."

 Benefits of Pilates: It Hones Your Focus

Pilates urges you to focus on 1) your breath, 2) your body, and 3) how they move together. It takes a lot of concentration, says Zindell. "You can't zone out." That means you're forced to forget about work, bills, boyfriends, and other drama for a full hour. Ahh.

 Benefits of Pilates: It Makes Sex Better

When Pilates instructors say, "lift your pelvic floor," what they are really saying is "do Kegels," according to Zindell. Pilates moves like those strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to up your pleasure in the bedroom. "You have way better orgasms with Pilates. It's amazing for sex," she says. If you're trying to conceive with all of that out-of-this-world sex, strong pelvic floor muscles can make pushing out a baby way easier. "I've gotten so many text messages from my students, while they are still in the delivery room, saying 'the baby flew out of my vagina,'" she says.

 Benefits of Pilates: It Improves Your Sports Performance

"When you start focusing on your core, you realize that all of your muscles are connected through your core. Try doing lunges without your abdominals. You'll crumble over," says Zindel, who has trained everyday athletes and professional ones including Chicago Bulls player Joakim Noah. "With a stronger core, you can run faster, your yoga is on point, and overall, the rest of your workouts improve," she says. Plus, by working in small groups or one-on-one with a Pilates instructor, you can learn moves that mimic and improve performance in your sport of choice.