Pilates is one of the world’s fastest-growing fitness fads, and it has been used as a training modality for both female and male athletes. However, male instructors and proponents have always been a part of the female-dominated Pilates community since it was founded by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. Joe was a boxer, gymnast, and military trainer, and photos of him in his seventies show a very robust, healthy physique. Nevertheless, men have always played an essential role in keeping Pilates alive and dictating its evolution.
Pilates Benefits Everyone
The Pilates method has been actively promoted by women in recent years. Males frequently believe that Pilates is not a suitable exercise for them. However, males can benefit from Pilates in the same way that women can. Pilates has never been “only for women,” and its advantages are not gender-specific. Pilates can benefit everyone! It is quite popular among women, yet nothing about it makes it more suitable for women than for males. Because of the Pilates method’s versatility to diverse levels of fitness and body shapes, it has become an accessible and efficient workout option for women. In addition, Pilates has attracted a large number of dancers, particularly women, and many of them have chosen Pilates as their next vocation, including me. More female instructors have made Pilates more appealing to female students. Both of these elements may have contributed to a feminine view of Pilates. Fortunately, as the pilates fad approaches gain popularity in the fitness industry, more men are enrolling in studios and training programs.
Pilates Is Simple but Not Easy
There are a few sources that support the notion that Pilates is simple. First, Pilates is incredibly adaptive! Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates, who was supposed to be somewhat manly during his formative years. Depending on the individual’s needs, it can be simple or challenging. One of Pilates’ most significant assets is its flexibility to alter routines for varied groups. Second, the rising popularity of Pilates has resulted in a plethora of beginner Pilates courses in virtually every gym and studio across the country. This is a positive thing, but it also means that individuals aren’t getting enough exposure to intermediate and advanced levels of Pilates. Third, Pilates exercises are frequently performed slowly. The emphasis on awareness and control might make an exercise appear simple to the untrained eye. Finally, there are other reasons Pilates may appear to be simple. Pilates is a popular type of exercise for pregnant women, it is used in rehabilitation, and it can be done by people of all ages and sizes. Nonetheless, even the fittest athletes face persistent challenges with the Pilates method (with whom Pilates is also very popular).
Why Does Pilates Work for Men?
Pilates provides numerous physical benefits, including core strength, flexibility, balance, constant development, and efficient movement patterns. These advantages are trademarks of the Pilates approach, and integrative components are highly applicable and practical to men’s fitness. Men are prone to emphasizing a piecemeal approach to muscle growth, as seen in weightlifting. On the other hand, Pilates stresses moving from the center of the body, the powerhouse, and increasing core strength in the deep center muscles to stabilize the trunk and protect the back. This method creates a solid basis for strength and resistance training. Pilates, with its emphasis on core strength, is an ideal approach for total-body fitness as well as a basis for cross-training with other types of sports and exercise. It addresses the goal of increasing flexibility in a way that men can understand. Pilates focuses on functional fitness, or the ability to have the strength, balance, and flexibility to move through daily chores with grace and ease. Like yoga, Pilates workouts develop flexibility and range of motion, but without the pretzel poses.
Pilates Advice for Newbie Men
Taking classes is the greatest method to learn Pilates. Women may outnumber men by a large margin, but don’t let that dissuade you. Keep in mind when beginning Pilates:
• Pilates is a mind-body activity. Bringing your entire focus to every action is essential for the exercise. To get the most out of the workout, precise alignment and core training that extends beyond the superficial muscles necessitate delicate attention and micro-adjustments.
• The Pilates method is universal. The method is based on concepts of healthy movement for the human body in general. Men’s muscles tend to be tighter, especially in the hips and hamstrings. Although, adaptations allow the Pilates approach to fit the needs of a wide range of practitioners.
• There’s no reason to “push through.” It is not intended to be overpowered when working with Pilates equipment, which includes resistance equipment. In fact, the lightest setting on a piece of equipment, such as the reformer, can sometimes be the most difficult on the core.
Pilates Can be Taught by Anyone
This is a terrible reality. Pilates training is no longer regulated, and anyone can claim to be a Pilates instructor. But that’s all there is to it. Pilates is a sophisticated workout system, and a certified instructor will have received extensive training and apprenticeship. The education to teach Pilates mat movements is frequently a weekend course. However, this should be preceded by significant time spent as a student. Following the Pilates instructor instructions is far more in-depth, requiring studies in anatomy, particular populations, teaching skills, and all Pilates equipment and mat exercises. Most Pilates instructors have had extensive training, but it is up to the consumer to ask questions and be a discerning learner because the industry is unregulated. Before instructing a class, prospective instructors must ensure that they have received a good education.
Kim’s Final Thoughts….
Although, women have endorsed Pilates, the pilates community welcomes men with open arms. Men can benefit from Pilates as much as women do. So, let’s continue to debunk the myth that Pilates is only for women because its benefits are widespread. Everyone can do Pilates and reap the benefits including young children, women, men and senior. As a result of its versatility, Pilates has become a popular workout option and continues to gain traction now that more men are joining up for pilates classes.
