Why We Use Weights for Our Pilates Classes in Lisbon
In the bustling fitness scene of Lisbon, Pilates remains a favourite for many looking to improve their strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.
While traditional Mat Pilates offers numerous benefits, incorporating weights into your routine can elevate your workouts to a whole new level.
Let’s explore the advantages of why we’re using weights in our Pilates classes and how it can enhance your fitness journey.
Increased Muscle Tone and Strength
Benefits: Using weights in Pilates helps build muscle strength, particularly in the arms, shoulders, and upper back. This addition allows for more effective muscle toning compared to bodyweight exercises alone.
Research: Studies show that resistance training with weights can lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and endurance, which is beneficial for overall muscle development and functional fitness.
Enhanced Core Stability
Benefits: Weights increase the challenge to the core muscles, promoting better stability and balance. They intensify the workout for the abs, obliques, and lower back, leading to a stronger and more stable core.
Research: Incorporating weights in core exercises can improve core strength and stability, which is essential for everyday movements and overall athletic performance.
Better Posture
Benefits: Using weights in Pilates can strengthen the postural muscles, leading to improved posture. It targets the muscles that support the spine, helping with better alignment and reducing the risk of back pain.
Research: Strength training with weights has been shown to improve postural alignment and reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal issues related to poor posture.
Increased Calorie Burn
Benefits: Adding weights can elevate the heart rate, leading to a higher calorie burn during the workout. This helps in achieving weight loss or weight management goals more efficiently.
Research: Workouts incorporating resistance elements like weights can significantly increase the metabolic rate and energy expenditure during and after the exercise session.
Improved Bone Density
Benefits: Weight exercises are known to strengthen bones and improve bone density, which is particularly beneficial for preventing osteoporosis. This is especially important for older adults and those at risk of bone density loss.
Research: Regular weight training has been linked to increased bone mineral density, helping to maintain strong and healthy bones.
Targets the Whole Body
Benefits: Pilates with weights engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a solid workout that boosts overall fitness. This approach ensures that all major muscle groups are targeted, promoting balanced muscle development.
Research: A study from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) found that full-body workouts incorporating weights can improve muscle symmetry and functional strength, benefiting everyday activities and athletic performance.
Integrating weights into Pilates exercises can amplify the benefits of your workout, making it more effective for muscle toning, strength, and overall fitness.
This approach not only improves traditional Pilates exercises but also provides additional health benefits that support a well-rounded fitness regimen.
