Pilates is a method practiced by many people. It is a good option for those who want to strengthen the muscles and improve the posture. Among its benefits, you may find the reduction of anxiety and stress, improvement in the sexual life performance, flexibility and relief from premenstrual tension.

However, many people wonder if the practice helps to slim down. Unlike other specific physical exercises that aim to lose weight, Pilates does not aim to burn calories primarily. It only helps this process See it:

What happens?

By speeding up metabolism, Pilates has the ability to help in weight loss, not as fast as other exercises like walking and running. However, it is possible to burn a few kilos. Nevertheless, only some months later the results will be realized. The strengthening of the muscles and the reduction of liver help the metabolism in the procedure. During the practice, you may lose between 200 and 400 calories. It will depend only on the body and on the schedule of exercises that each person performs.

Poor posture makes these fats appear more as well. Practicing pilates regularly works the inner muscles, known as intrinsic. They are responsible for stabilizing the trunk and defining a good posture. Once activated, they are able to bring numerous benefits to the musculature, organs function, and hence the aesthetic enhancement and the loss of some inches.

As already stated, Pilates is one of the practices that helps to reduce the effects of anxiety and stress. As many people suffer from the results of these disorders in the balance, it is one way to have assistance to control it. Once more calm, maybe the person eats fewer calories than the usual and thereby they gain more stability in weight. Pilates acts both body and mind. Working the breath also helps in this process.

For best results, to practice Pilates more than once a week is indicated. The practice may be performed in a studio or even at home and you do not need to have specific devices. Only with a mat, a water bottle, a cushion and a chair it is possible to work out. Another tip is to add some aerobic equipment during the activity. This will give faster result.

Besides the use of devices, there is pilates mat, also known as ground method.  As there is no need of an object, it depends on the participant effort, which varies from person to person. Moreover, to practice Pilates with apparatus may help in a better understanding of body awareness. Both are great choices.

Food should never be left aside. There is no use to practice Pilates and not having a balanced diet. Give preference to healthier foods and watch out the calories you eat. It is necessary to relate the activity with what you eat to achieve the desired result.

Practice Pilates at home

How about starting today practicing Pilates without leaving home? NAMU Courses platform offers the method classes series that can be performed in a place and time of your choice. Pilates course for beginners – Lose weight and improve your posture exercises at various levels contribute to weight loss will be available.

Foto: Red CreaDeporte / Flickr / CC BY 2.0