Do you hate running, cycling, and other traditional forms of exercise? Do you think those are the only things you can do to lose weight? If so, think again!
Pilates is a less intense, yet very effective exercise routine that can absolutely help you in your weight loss journey. Read on to learn some great pilates weight loss workouts.
What Is Pilates?
Before we get into the workouts, let’s quickly discuss what pilates is.
Pilates is a system of exercises that are designed to help improve strength, flexibility, and posture. All of these things, combined with a balanced diet, can help you drop pounds.
You won’t do a lot of jumping around during a pilates workout, which makes it perfect for people who have injuries or lack mobility.
Even if you’re not running and jumping, you’re still burning calories and making progress towards your weight loss goals. Because it’s a low-impact form of exercise, you might be more likely to stick to pilates over other workouts, meaning your weight loss results will last!
Pilates Weight Loss Workouts
Described below are five simple pilates moves that you can combine to make a great workout.
Hundreds
To do this exercise, lie on your back with your arms lifted and your legs bent in the air, forming a 90-degree angle. Lift your head and shoulders off the floor, and lift your arms until they are parallel with the floor. Pulse your hands up and down, taking five short inhales followed by five short exhales. Repeat ten times for 100 pulses.
Swimming
Start this exercise by lying on your stomach with your forehead down on the mat, arms stretched forward with palms facing down. Inhale to lift your arms, legs, chest, and head. While breathing regularly, alternate lifting your right arm and left leg followed by your left arm and right leg.
Slowly count to 10 as you continue this movement, then rest.
Roll Ups
When doing roll ups, begin by lying on your back with arms lifted so they are perpendicular to the floor. Inhale, then, as you exhale, tuck your chin into your chest and slowly begin to roll up. Stop when your torso and legs make a 90-degree angle, then slowly roll back down.
Push-Ups
Pilates push-ups are a bit different than traditional push-ups. Start in a plank position (hands under shoulders, feet together, with your body forming a straight line from head to feet). If necessary, you can keep your knees on the floor.
Slowly lower your body toward the floor, then push back up, all while keeping your elbows close to your ribs.
Side-Lying Leg Lifts
Begin this exercise lying on your side with your knees, ankles, hips, shoulders, and ears all forming one line. Inhale, and, when you exhale, lift your legs off the ground a few inches. Inhale again as you slowly lower your legs back down to the floor.
Make sure to repeat this exercise on both sides!
All of these pilates weight loss exercises can be done at home without any special equipment. Give them a try today!
Contact Us To For More Weight Loss Help
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