Men and Pilates – Why It Can Be Great Fitness Training for Them

Why does there seem to be some reserve and question about whether Pilates is an appropriate exercise program for men? It is kind of odd considering that the founding father of this unique exercise program, Joseph Pilates, was a man and created it not only for the rehabilitation of wounded WWI soldiers but also the best athletes such as dancers. In addition, many students of Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century were men, some who went on to become instructors of this exercise program themselves.

The large resurgence of Pilates in the late 20th and early 21st century has seen women in the role of instructor and more women than men participating in class. This unfortunately has fed into the stereotypical vision that men do not take Pilates; however, this view is finally changing as more and more male professional athletes are discovering the positive benefits of Pilates and how much it enhances their physicality in their chosen sport. Pilates is one of the fastest growing exercise phenomenons in the world right now and more and more men are stepping up to try it.

Positive Aspects for Men

Thinking about male fitness, there has always been a focus on strength and agility along with working on particular muscle groups at a time. Pilates offers greater efficiency of movement along with balance, flexibility, and uniform movement in order to build strength in the core muscles of the body. These Pilates elements are crucial to a man’s physical success. What is interesting is that by focusing on the core strength of the body, Pilates is creating an excellent foundation for other exercises as well as sports.

Pilates creates better flexibility in men in such a way as not to feel odd or on display. Pilates for men should be viewed as the overall physical fitness foundation first. Building balance, strength and flexibility in the core muscles of the body’s trunk is essential for moving with ease in your normal every day life. From there, these beneficial properties can be applied elsewhere, particular other physical pursuits.

Getting Ready to Tackle a Class

Men who wish to try a Pilates class should be forewarned that they may be outnumbered by women, at least two to one. However, times are changing. If you want to take Pilates and don’t want to be the only man there, recruit a friend to take it or choose a class with a male instructor to make you feel less conspicuous.

The workout is primarily the same for both men and women when it comes to Pilates as they both have the same muscle groups to work out. With that said, women do initially have an easier time with Pilates as some of their muscles, particularly in the hamstrings and pelvic area, are not as tight as the men. However, with time and practicing Pilates principles, these muscles loosen for the men, although some modification of Pilates techniques might be unavoidable until the muscles loosen.

Men love games of strategy and to a point that is what Pilates is. It requires a certain strategy of mind and spirit over body. Learning to be totally aware of their bodies and making the proper movements is essential to being successful in Pilates. Men enjoy that control and the power they reap as their bodies become stronger with Pilates principles.