Regardless of age men pretty much seek the same thing when it comes to their physical appearance. Men want to look and feel strong. Men want to have more energy and stamina. Men want to have more agility and flexibility with their bodies. Pilates an exercise regime delivers the goods on all this and more. What is viewed by many as a “women only” exercise is not true. More men are turning to Pilates as an alternative to traditional workouts. Men and women may be built differently, but Pilates exercises benefits them both.
Who doesn’t want better balance, energy and flexibility in their lives? Just like women men want to develop stronger bones, carry around less weight and have better orgasms. Yes that one is true also. Joseph Pilates created this form of exercise when he practiced his techniques on wounded soldiers. He quickly realized that what he was doing helped rehabilitate wounded soldiers faster. Today Pilates exercises are used in rehabilitation facilities. Men are becoming more aware of the benefits Pilates has on core strengthening.
As more and more men begin taking private instruction or attend mat classes, the barriers that Pilates is a “women only” sport is losing its steam. The demographics of men clients usually breaks down to aging men, men who are in shape, and men who look to lose weight. Aging men want to stay strong, retain strong bones and stay agile. A young man who is in great shape looks to Pilates to provide another exercise to balance off his workout, and a man looks to Pilates to help with weight control. Although Pilates isn’t considered an aerobic exercise, men who work out hard will tell you otherwise.
The first category, men who are aging, notice a difference in how their bodies feel and they are unable to perform the same kind of exercise they did when younger. These men will benefit from more stretching to increase mobility; core strengthening for stronger backs and better posture. and exercise that is gentle on their joints. Pilates can provide all these things. Not to mention Pilates helps with balance a possible trouble area for seniors who suffer injuries due to falls.
The out of shape, de-conditioned male who may had a sudden drop in weight losing muscle tone is a perfect candidate for Pilates. Pilates works the total body. Pilates help men maintain bone density. Pilates low impact exercises allows the de-conditioned male gradually build up strength and self esteem. But before a male who is extremely out of shape tackles Pilates it is wise for him to seek a doctor’s approval before starting any physical exercise program. Once cleared for exercise please seek the help from a certified Pilates instructor who will make sure you properly do the exercises.
The final category, men who have lost a large amount of weight, inevitably want to lose their belly fat. In other words, they lost weight and now want to tone their mid sections. Pilates, with all its attention to building stronger abs, is a perfect addition to their already successful weight loss. With loss of weight comes loss of muscle. Pilates allows de-conditioned muscles to become stronger without over stressing the body. A certified Pilates instructor makes sure the exercises you do are done correctly so as not to cause injury.
Regardless of where you fit in with Pilates it is about staying in shape. Our bodies need exercise. It is as much as fuel to us as food. Having a fit and tone body, staying active without pain shouldn’t be taken lightly. Regardless of age having more flexibility and stamina will make for a healthier lifestyle. Being able to avoid injury, having more mobility to do normal everyday activities makes life so much more enjoyable. Pilates for men may be a great addition to your life. Schedule a workout into your PDA and start a new chapter in exercise.
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