Pilates and Weight Loss
Posted on July 26, 2011
Pilates and Weight Loss
Many people believe Pilates is a form of exercise that can help with losing weight. This is true to a certain extent. To lose weight you must use up more energy (calories) than your consume. Pilates is a form of exercise and you do burn calories, therefore it will help with weight loss. There are other forms of exercise that are more effective in burning calories for weight loss when exercising for the same period. Pilates will help with some weight loss, but it will do more for strengthening and toning the muscles throughout your body.
It is recommended that for optimal weight loss you must exercise at a constant level for a minimum of 20 minutes at least three days a week. The intensity you should exercise at is at 70% of your maximal heart rate. When doing Pilates your heart rate will vary depending on the exercise you are doing. It will go above to recommended 70% during some exercises, and drop below during other exercises and when resting between exercises.
Pilates is a great adjunct to your cardio weight loss program. When combined with cardio exercises (such as jogging, swimming, cycling etc) you will lose weight and tone your muscles at the same time. As your muscles get stronger and longer with Pilates, you will also decrease the risk of sustaining injury while you are exercising.
Before starting any new exercise or losing weight program, it is important you check with you doctor or health professional that it is safe for you. If you have any pre-existing injuries or pain, it is advisable you attend small group classes or one-on-one instruction by a qualified Pilates instructor. As with any weight loss program, you must also consider your diet and make changes where needed. As mentioned above, to lose weight you must use up (exercise) more energy and calories than your consume (your diet).
Weight Loss
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Hi my name is Susan. I have recently discovered a fast way to lose weight and would like to share my story with you. I also enjoy exercising with my pilates ring.
