One of the many benefits of Pilates is that it includes a better balance of stretching and strengthening and often works the muscles in an elongated position, offering a long lever arm for the core muscles to work against.ĭr. Mims warns, a reduction in mobility at the joints can play a role in the development of common conditions such as low back pain, tendinopathies, muscle strains/tears, and plantar fasciitis. If you don’t diversify your workout routine, Dr. But this constant process of contracting muscles can lead to chronic tightness and decreased range of motion. Mims explains that traditional workouts targeted towards men disproportionately concentrate on resisted strengthening programs that forcibly contract and shorten muscles. “Many men need to include a better balance of work on flexibility and strength in their exercise programs,” she says. Heather Mims, PT, DPT, OCS, PMA-CPT and Pilates Method Alliance Certified Pilates Teacher at Shift Wellness, says that the balance the practice can bring is essential for men. You can read more about Joseph Pilates and the fascinating history behind this workout practice here-but if you are still not convinced that Pilates might be what your body needs, take it from an expert.ĭr. In fact, it was started by a man named Joseph Pilates, and he was no sissy (he started developing the method while being held in an internment camp, for starters).

Despite what you might envision when you think of Pilates, this form of exercise is great for men.

Maybe you’re feeling strong-but are you feeling stiff? Too much sitting at your work-from-home station? Pilates might be just what you need to balance your body and optimize your strength.ĭon't just scoff. Before you grab your weights, you might want to consider another way to get your health and fitness on track.

Hard pilates moves