Pilates workouts primarily target the abdominal, hip, back, thigh, and gluteal muscles. Pilates moves can improve your mind-body connection and enhance your dancing skills. Read on to learn the advantages of Pilates workouts for dancers.
Enjoy Adaptable Exercises
One of the best things about Pilates is that there are various ways to do the exercises. You can work out on a mat or use Pilates equipment. Exercise in a studio or do Pilates outdoors—or even with goats. You can target specific goals or simply enjoy the experience of working on your overall fitness.
The Reformer machine has a foot bar, carriage, pulleys, and springs that help strengthen and lengthen muscles. Some studios also have wooden stall bars for Pilates training. Use stall bars for exercises such as hanging leg circles and reverse leg lifts.
Improve Balance
Pilates strengthens muscles that stabilize the body and improve balance. With a strong core, you can move your limbs more freely and gracefully while staying balanced.
In dance, you’re constantly shifting your body’s center of gravity. Pilates can help you have more control over your movements. Enhancing strength in your back, through your abdomen, and down your hamstrings will help you perform dance moves faster and more fluidly.
Enhance Flexibility
Enhanced flexibility is another advantage of Pilates workouts for dancers. Dancers know the importance of flexibility in reducing the risk of injury and soreness. And when you have a greater range of motion, you can create better body lines.
Pilates stretches can be done lying down, seated, or standing. One popular Pilates stretch is the wall roll-down, which stretches the back and hamstrings. The mermaid side stretch lengthens the sides of your body.
Pilates workouts are an excellent complement to dance exercises. Try a mat or equipment Pilates class to find the right option for your goals. Enjoy various fun exercises as you improve your balance and flexibility.