Pilates offers an array of benefits such as balance, flexibility, and injury prevention. Athletes who add this fitness training to their routine see improvements in the bodies as well as a boost in performance for the sport. Below are five reasons every athlete should include Pilates in their workout plan.

The Top Benefits of Pilates

1. Mind-Body Connection

Pilates is a whole-body workout, including strengthening the connection between the mind and body for a solid foundation. The movements are designed to train the body in a safe manner while teaching the mind to feel and find areas of imbalance or incorrect usage. When the mind can identify muscles and joints that are misaligned or need work, injuries are reduced and performance is improved.

2. Core & Lumbo-Pelvic Strength

The core, lumbar, and pelvic regions of the body are developed during Pilates sessions for stabilization. The more secure and strong these areas are, the better the athlete will be in their respective sports. A solid core and lumbo-pelvic area also helps with flexibility and decreases pain in the lower back. For athletes that need power for throwing or for those who participate in tennis, golf, or hockey, the more stable the core, the easier it will be to rotate and repeat their movements.

3. Sport Focus

When athletes choose to supplement their training with Pilates, especially private sessions, an instructor will find movements to optimize repeated patterns and make them better in the sport. Runners will focus on leg alignment and balance while a baseball pitcher or quarterback in football will give their core stabilizers attention to power the arms. Teachers can also assess weak areas that need help to improve an athlete’s performance.

4. Balanced Workout

Many athletes focus on muscle groups and exercises that will enhance their specific sport’s requirements. This repetitive program can lead to sprains and strains and may also leave gaps in their overall fitness. Pilates makes a great addition to any training program since the whole body is conditioned for strength, flexibility, stamina, and stabilization. In the end, the athlete’s body is more in balance to support the muscles they need for their game.

5. Stress Management

Besides the physical benefits, Pilates is also beneficial for stress management and relaxation. While the movements can be rigorous, the focus required and the style of each exercise have proven to be a great stress relief. Breathing is also part of the routine, a critical component of releasing tension and improving circulation throughout the body.

The instructors at Pilates 580 bring years of experience and expertise to every Pilates and yoga class. Located in Oakland, CA, and serving Emeryville, Piedmont, and Berkeley, their private workouts and group classes include state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques for conditioning both the body and the mind. For more on their offerings, call (510) 338-3932 or visit them online.