Why Should Men Do Pilates?

A lot of men think that Pilates is a women’s workout.  First of all, Pilates was created by a man (Joseph Pilates) and originally practiced by men. The most important thing Pilates can teach you is how to move your body.  By doing the method you can get in great condition and you will be able to move with precision because of the constant feedback. You are more likely to perform other activities better, with greater strength, speed and efficiency of movement while preventing injury. 

Pilates develops often-neglected muscle groups, improves flexibility, builds core strength, improves posture, function and mobility.  Men specifically should do Pilates because:

• It is not age-specific

• Men who attend the gym regularly often require muscle balance and re-alignment

• Pilates is much more demanding than it looks

• The feel-good factor from practicing Pilates is, in no way, gender related

• It promotes a more restful sleep

Most men love sports, which require strength, flexibility, stability and balance.  Until recently, Pilates was a well-kept secret among professional athletes. Now there are many NFL players who are required to use it (using the Reformer makes the workout safer and more effective) as part of their workout routine.  So if macho men who are paid millions to play football can do Pilates, I wonder…Why aren’t more men taking advantage of this exercise? Do they acquaint Pilates with ballet or do they consider it too “feminine?” Do they hear that it strengthens their core and increases flexibility and think, I’ve got a six pack and who wants to be flexible? Has our industry done a poor job of communicating the significant benefits of the exercises created by Joseph Pilates?

So how can a regular Pilates class benefit any man? Well, to begin with, it’s one of the best ways to improve your physique or your game, whether it’s hockey, basketball, baseball, running, golf or cycling.  Like all Pilates instructors know, most pain and injuries are the result of muscle imbalance and a lack of flexibility. For example, too often men train their upper bodies, and that creates muscle imbalance and misalignment, which can lead to injury. Pilates is one of the best methods for balancing muscles, aligning the body and preventing injury. For that reason alone, men should be running to their nearest Pilates studio. 

When you first experience Pilates, you are surprised it is so challenging.  Yet, you feel so wonderful after the workout.  If you are a man who is looking for a full-body workout that’s going to build more muscle fiber and strength while increasing your flexibility, mobility, joint stability and the ability to move with ease in every range of motion, I encourage you to be open-minded and give Pilates a whirl. Try different studios and different styles until you find the right fit.

Go into it with no expectations and you might be pleasantly surprised. When you look for a Pilates instructor, check out their background and ask questions. Make sure they hold a national certification for Pilates, and find out how long they have been teaching. Once you give Pilates a try, I believe that like most of my clients, you might just find yourself hooked on this not-for-women-only exercise philosophy.