As International Pilates Day approaches, professionals and novices alike are gearing up to celebrate the benefits of this timeless practice. Whether you regularly attend Pilates classes or want to try something new, this acclaimed exercise method is suited to fit nearly every lifestyle.
Join RTR Pilates in celebrating International Pilates Day and the improved health, strength, and vitality that Pilates brings!
The Joys of Pilates
Whether you are attending a beginner’s Pilates class or moving on to more complex reformer work, you can enjoy numerous benefits for both your mental and physical health.
Through the repetition of controlled movements, Pilates exercises help to strengthen and tone the entire body. One of the primary areas of focus is the core, which includes the abdominal muscles, lower back, hips, and glute muscles.
In addition to contributing to overall fitness, strengthening these muscles can promote improvement in many areas such as balance, flexibility, posture, and more.
Pilates also positively impacts mental health. Amid the hustle of everyday life, taking some time for a mental break can feel like a breath of fresh air.
Many users find the Pilates exercises to increase calmness and clarity through the implementation of practices such as intentional breathing, mindfulness, and focus.
Not only are these practices helpful during Pilates classes, but they can also help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep and concentration in daily life.
Pilates: Where It Came From and Why We Celebrate
Of course, Pilates is great for you, but why is an entire day dedicated to it every first Saturday in May? It all comes down to the significant impact that Pilates had when it was first introduced and the positive impact it continues to have today.
Modern Pilates is still steeped in the thoughts and findings of its originator, Joseph Pilates. During early childhood in the 1880s, Joseph Pilates suffered from illnesses that left him with muscle deterioration and low flexibility.
Joseph spent his early adulthood as a boxer and self-defense teacher developing a method of exercise that would be low impact, require minimal space, and be accessible to a wide range of people.
Surprisingly, some of the first Pilates classes occurred in prison camps as Joseph Pilates introduced his exercise method (originally called Contrology) to inmates who were being rehabilitated from war injuries.
The inmates being assisted by Joseph Pilates exercised in their hospital beds using bed springs from a different bed to create an “exercise machine” with resistance.
This was the blueprint for modern Pilates reformer machines like the ones we use in the studio. In the 1920s, Joseph Pilates relocated to America from Germany and opened his first studio in New York City.
“Elders,” who were taught by Joseph Pilates himself, began spreading out across America to increase the popularity of Pilates by opening more studios.
Today, millions of people across the world continue to benefit from the work of Joseph Pilates and the exercise method he created.
Celebrating With Community
As International Pilates Day approaches, there is no better time to celebrate the community that Joseph Pilates began. Whether you’re just starting your journey or you’re a seasoned pro, going to classes is a great way to exercise and celebrate with others within a supportive environment.
Attending Pilates classes allows you to practice your favorite moves or learn something new alongside other Pilates enthusiasts and experienced instructors.
One of the best methods that typically isn’t found at home is using the reformer machine; this resistance machine allows you to take your workout to new heights.
Reformers can provide increased resistance for those looking for an enhanced challenge, but they can also be set up as assistive devices.
If you are facing mobility issues or are just starting your fitness journey and need help with Pilates movements, reformers provide structure throughout the exercise process alongside an experienced instructor.
The best way to celebrate International Pilates Day is to head to the studio. If it’s your first time, there is no better chance to get acquainted with reformer machines and passionate instructors who want to see you succeed.
If you are already benefiting from Pilates, go to a reformer class to be especially mindful this Pilates Day. Reflect on the amazing things your body can do now that you have invested in strengthening and toning it.
No matter your experience level, use International Pilates Day as an opportunity to recenter yourself and get excited about your future.
Spend International Pilates Day with RTR Pilates
International Pilates Day is almost here, don’t let it pass you by! The instructors at RTR Pilates are looking forward to celebrating Pilates Day with our many participants—and you can be one, too.
Contact RTR Pilates to sign up for a reformer Pilates class or schedule a visit on International Pilates Day this year.