Good posture plays an important role in how we move and feel. This blog covers how Reformer Pilates can help, not only with posture, but also how we feel about ourselves – and includes guidance on how best to achieve positive results.
What is Posture?
Simply put, posture is the way in which we hold our body. This typically refers to when we are sitting or standing, known as static posture. Dynamic posture is how we hold our body whilst walking, running and completing everyday tasks. Good posture is when we align our body into a neutral position, which puts the minimum amount of load through our muscles and surrounding structures. Having good posture can benefit:
- Pain reduction
- Improved breathing
- Improved energy
- Improved digestion
- Reduced headaches
- Improved confidence
The History of Pilates
Joseph Pilates originally dedicated himself to physical conditioning in order to overcome childhood ailments. In WW1, he started to attach springs to hospital beds to allow those who were bed-bound to exercise, setting the foundations of reformer Pilates. In 1926, Joseph and his wife Clara opened their first studio in New York, when the dance community started to use his methods for injury rehabilitation. By the 1980s-2000s, Pilates started to become popular in the health and fitness community, expanding beyond the dance community.
Can Pilates Help with Posture?
Whilst looking at studies from 2021 to the present, reformer Pilates shows a positive impact on:
- Improving posture
- Postural control
- Balance
- Flexibility
- Overall physical function
Along with the physical benefits, research has shown that Pilates helps to reduce:
- Social anxiety
- Improved body appreciation
- Increased self-awareness
- Overall improvements in quality of life
The common consensus to achieve these results was:
- 1-hour sessions
- 2x per week
- Across an 8–10 week period
- 1-1 or 2-1 classes
- Having a 1-1 Pilates session provides more contact time, meaning you can receive individual attention and guidance with technique as well as your specific goals. This allows quicker progression helping to achieve your goals sooner.
- 2-1 Pilates also offers increased contact time for correction of technique compared to larger group sessions. Sessions can still be focused and tailored to meet both individual goals. You’re in the spotlight less with a 2-1, but you still have the added benefit of group motivation to push you further than you may on your own.
If you are looking to improve your posture, boost your self-confidence and improve your everyday quality of life, book your 1-1 initial assessment today to help tailor your programme to your ability, use of springs and goals, helping you get the most out of reformer Pilates. Book Pilates online.
