The primary difference between Pilates and weight training is that Pilates focuses on the stability system, the mechanics of movements, and building postural awareness and mobility. Weight training builds strength and power by targeting global muscles rather than small muscles and movements. Momentum is needed for lifting weights, and as a result, people often use different muscles and overload other areas. Pilates is a great complement to weight training as it teaches how to control the body rather than just use  power. The slower movements build more body awareness. Understanding the movements will help improve form and consequently strength in the gym. Pilates helps with posture, flexibility, and muscular endurance so it is an excellent complimentary workout to weight training.

We are all aging, and we want to do so as gracefully as possible but also with the least amount of pain and injury. Pilates is an excellent exercise option for our aging bodies! It is a safe, low impact form of exercise that can help prevent and overcome physical changes associated with aging. One physical change as we age is in our posture. Aging results in a natural decline in muscle mass, bone strength, and balance. These declines in addition to decreased activity because of pain or other dysfunction will have a negative impact on posture. Pilates will help improve posture through activities that strengthen core muscles and provide a strong foundation. As a result of improved posture, muscles will be balanced and in turn this will help prevent injuries. Your Pilates instructor will educate you on how to stand upright and tall, lengthen your neck, open your shoulders, and stretch those tight muscles.

There are lots of great reasons to make sure we get enough sleep, and weight loss is one of them. Not getting enough sleep makes appetite control more difficult. When we are sleep deprived, we have lower levels of leptin which reduces appetite AND we have higher levels of ghrelin, an appetite stimulating hormone. Sleep deficiency also increases activity in other parts of the brain that make us crave junk food and high calorie foods. On the other hand, deep sleep increases the production of the growth hormone which promotes the burning of fats. It is also important to align sleeping and eating with the body's circadian rhythm whenever possible. When not aligned, there is a disruption in the regulation of appetite and metabolism which often leads to weight gain. Getting enough sleep and having a regular sleep schedule should be prioritized along with a good diet and physical exercise. Good night and sweet dreams!

Joseph Pilates didn't just invent the famous Pilates Reformer many of us have heard of. He also invented an apparatus most of us probably know nothing about called the Wunda Chair. This chair provides a challenging, varied workout in a small amount of space. Many exercises can be performed using the Wunda Chair, and it is excellent for strengthening the core muscles as well as the arms and legs. The exercises can be done lying, sitting, and standing on the chair as well as positions from the side of the chair. You can expect an efficient, full body workout in a short amount of time without stopping for complicated equipment changes. Joseph Pilates originally designed the Wunda Chair for his New York City clients to take to their summer homes. It is portable, has a small footprint, and can even be flipped over and used as an armchair. When you visit the studio at Bodyworks for a Pilates session with Kim or Bruce, you can expect to use this "wundaful chair" along with the Reformer and other innovative equipment.

A new class for beginners starts January 17, 2023! The class will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in person or by Zoom. You will learn about the fundamentals of healthy movement that align and protect your bones and joints and improve your balance. Stretching and fascial release techniques are taught at the beginning of each class to help you achieve a more optimal alignment and better body awareness. The Pilates principles are then taught step by step, carefully building into the Pilates mat exercises. Modifications and corrections are provided as needed so you will achieve optimum strength and correct form. You will look and feel like a new person! Consider making this class part of your self-care routine.