I love the multi-faceted benefit of Pilates.

I love the multi-faceted benefit of Pilates. The practice progressively challenges the body and the brain. We can perform a full-body workout, in less than an hour, on the mat, the reformer, the spine corrector or any other Pilates apparatus. Meanwhile, applying the knowledge of the “why” behind each piece of movement and the focus on precise movement initiation and articulation is quite a mental workout. Tried and true, a regular diversified Pilates practice develops, improve and maintains strength, flexibility, balance, range of motion, postural awareness, coordination, as well as mental function and focus.

To maintain a universally strong skeleton and body, two to three days of Pilates and five to six days of some form of cardiovascular exercise per week will cover all the physical conditioning bases. Moderate-intensity walking, hiking, biking, swimming, dancing, or any continuous movement will strengthen the heart, lungs, and bones. Numerous studies have also proven that regular cardiovascular exercise helps relieve stress and anxiety.

It’s April! The weather is beautiful and the daylight is lasting longer! I encourage you to get out and chase some wildflowers, walk your pooch, walk or cycle our amazing paths and trails while this fantastic weather lasts! As Southern Arizona warms up, use those quiet early morning hours to work those hearts and lungs while soaking up a little Vitamin D in the process.

Here’s the perfect formula to remember: Pilates + Cardio = healthy mind, body, and spirit!

As Clara Pilates once told Ron Fletcher, “Go and do!”