The benefits of exercise are many, one of which is that it increases your body’s metabolic rate, or basal metabolic rate (BMR). Pilates is one such exercise that can increase BMR by stimulating all of the organs and systems in the human body. Thus, it also stimulates the body’s oxygen and blood circulation. It continues to eliminate the waste and toxins from the body. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the last century. Pilates is similar to yoga in that it focuses on breathing. It’s not a very rigorous form of exercise and doesn’t involve profuse sweating. Nevertheless, with the help of the Pilates system, you can speed up your metabolism and lose weight.

Physiological and Metabolic Benefits of Pilates

The various benefits of Pilates include increasing BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate), building and maintaining muscle mass, realigning posture for better body movement control, increasing strength, and boosting energy levels. More than 10 million people practice Pilates in the United States. As blood flow and oxygen circulation improve and toxins are eliminated, the body’s metabolic rate improves and is more efficient. It is better to do Pilates on a mat to boost metabolism. Pilates is a physiologically healthy exercise. It’s balanced and flexible. It works all the major muscle groups in the body. The result is a strong, flexible and balanced body. Pilates can help you burn lots of calories, but no more so than other rigorous activities like running and weight training. With the right nutrition plan, you can build lean muscle mass and be thinner. It’s always good to avoid junk food. Eating more fruit and vegetables is also beneficial.

Some dietitians recommend consuming no more than 1200 calories a day, and some advise consuming at least 1500 calories a day for a healthy body and mind.

But it’s about listening to your bodyEveryone has different energy levels. Because Pilates doesn’t burn many calories from your body, it’s beneficial to listen to your own body and act accordingly. There are many Pilates diet plans out there, but they should be followed after being told to do so.

Pilates for back and body pain

Pilates has proven beneficial in many cases of body and back pain. However, it is very important to do Pilates the right way, as carelessness or ignorance can further aggravate the pain. If you are doing the exercise in a Pilates class, you should let your tutor know where the pain is. Major cases such as slip disc etc are dealt with in private sessions. Most Pilates classes focus more on fitness than rehab. Nonetheless, they all work at the core of the body, helping the body stabilize itself through the shoulder and pelvic girdles. This resolves many aches and pains.

Pilates for all genders

While Pilates is preferred by women, it is also beneficial for men. It increases the metabolic rate of both men and women alike. Women have a lower metabolic rate than men. Therefore, Pilates is more beneficial for them as it further increases their metabolic rate and helps them stay fit. The exercise is also beneficial for athletes. Those who play Pilates also excel in other outdoor and indoor sports such as football, golf, tennis, etc.

Performing Pilates: The Basic Hamstring Pull

Hamstring tightening is one of the very efficient Pilates exercises for increasing metabolism. It increases metabolic rate when done at a fast and controlled pace. To perform the exercise, you must first lie on your back. Your head and neck should be off the floor and your abdominal muscles tight. Keep your chest in an elevated position. Extend one of your legs toward the ceiling, then hold it with both hands (behind the calf area). Now pull your leg towards you and contract your stomach further. Take a deep breath, switch legs and repeat the exercise. You can do 10 to 20 reps of this exercise at a time. Get more comfortable by exercising at a moderate pace.

Conclusion

Pilates is now recognized at an international level. In addition to increasing the metabolic rate and weight loss, it is also used in rehabilitation clinics by physiotherapists, general practitioners and orthopedists for pain relief. The exercise provides well-founded results. As the metabolism increases, the functionality of the body increases. The person is in a more alert state of mind. This has a positive effect on a person’s daily work performance. The exercise can be customized. Pilates reduces stress and strengthens the mind-body connection. Because of these immense benefits, more and more people are practicing Pilates on a regular basis. It also improves sleep and releases hormones that have a positive effect on the mind.