Pilates?

[VanillaViking]

Is it as good and efficient as "everybody" says?

Any info/experiences appreciated, thanks :)


(I'm not allowed to do my usual workout atm. due to infection of a surgical wound = No Spinning or deadlift, squat and benchpress)

[karenlovessnow]

I have been doing pilates for over a year combined with cardio. I definitely see a difference in the strength of my abdominal muscles. I don't see that 10-20 minutes, three times a week, does much for making you look any more toned, however. It's ok if you just want to stretch your muscles a bit. Then there's the fact of whether or not you are overweight or not. The way I see it, if you want to do a vigorous pilate routine, say at least 30-45 minutes six times a week, you can get a good workout and will probably see better results than I have. I'm not saying the shorter workout isn't beneficial, I just don't see it as giving you "visible" results if that's what you are looking for. Actually, I just say the tiny print in your post regarding your surgical wound, so I would think pilates in some form would definitely help, depending on the site of the wound.

[VanillaViking]

No, I'm not overweight. My BMI is 21.

EDIT: Oops, I mean my bodyfat% is 21


Looks like Pilates is something I can do until I'm allowed to do my weightlifting programme again. I just want to use my body in some form until then.

Thank you :)

[broccoli]

I love pilates. I run a lot, so I like doing it on the off days to help my muscles recover. It's definately worth it. :)

[Sunny]

I do pilates and love it. It has greatly improved my muscle tone as well as my flexibility.

I have chronic lower back and neck/shoulder pain, and I can easily do this workout without worrying about causing stress to those areas.

[Lelena]

I used to love pilates. 1 1/2 years ago I had major surgery in my abdominal area and cannot do any kind of ab exercises. I cannot wait to get back to pilates again.

[CarbLover]

I really like Pilates. It strengthened my abs more than I ever thought possible. Unfortunately, it's hard to tell by looking because my body likes to store all my fat in my abdominal area. The chances of Pilates in itself making you lose weight are pretty slim. You have to do cardio to lose weight.