Developing a Pilates routine, which can help to increase physical fitness, strength, and your overall well-being, is much like starting any other exercise regimen. First, you will need a few pieces of equipment, whether you plan to join a class or workout at home. Starting with a beginner's class that meets once or twice a week, or a beginning workout video, is often best, as trying to learn to specific moves by looking at pictures can be difficult. In most cases, keeping yourself motivated is going to be the most difficult part of developing a Pilates routine, but setting goals and rewarding yourself with small treats can help.
Although this exercise regimen does not require an exorbitant amount of equipment, some items are necessary in order to start a Pilates routine. A mat specifically made for this type of exercise, rather than a Yoga mat, is essential, as it helps to support your back during different moves, as well as providing traction. Depending on the type of routine that you are doing, you may need resistance bands, foam blocks or a small ball. While designated workout clothing is not technically necessary, pieces that are easy to move in are, and a sports bra can make a Pilates routine more comfortable for women.
If you have not done this type of exercise before, visual instructions from a professional can be helpful. You can get this from a class, many of which are offered at local gyms, or from workout videos, which you can purchase or download online. There are also several books dedicated to different Pilates routine moves, although these typically do not work well for beginners. Many of the core movements and principles of Pilates require a specific form in order to be most beneficial and limit strains or injury, and these are easiest for most people to learn with real-time instruction.
While it is easy to go out and purchase equipment, instructional videos, and join a class, getting the motivation to actually develop a Pilates routine is often not as simple. In most cases, it is best to start out slow, dedicating a specific time during the day for two or three days a week to your routine. Setting goals for yourself and giving yourself a reward when you meet those goals can also be helpful. When you are first starting out, sticking to weight loss goals can be difficult, as oftentimes a lower amount on your scale is not a good indication of how much your Pilates routine is improving your health. Setting a goal of working out a specific amount of time for a month, such as three times a weeks for four weeks, and then treating yourself to an article of clothing, new gadget, or simply a night out can often be a good way to stick to a Pilates routine.
