Hi all,
PPF Co-Founder Chris here!
One of the things Em and I love most about our PPF community is that our members come in all different shapes, sizes and backgrounds. So the answer to the question; can all body types benefit from Pilates?
Hell yes!
Pilates does not discriminate against people based on their body type. Whether you're doing Mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates, having a taller, shorter, petite or larger frame will not impede your ability to perform Pilates exercises.
One of the wonderful things about Pilates is that it is not a competition against other people in a class. Pilates is solely about you and your goals. As the founder of Pilates, Joseph Pilates said himself:
"The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They'd be happier."
So, Mr Joe Pilates himself designed Pilates to be for everyone! Pilates does not differentiate based on height, weight, gender, culture, etc.
Below are a few recommendations I think will help you navigate what studio and what type of class style is best for you:
Find a Pilates studio that makes you feel welcome
Starting any form of exercise can be very, very intimidating. Trying anything new will always induce a bit of a stress response from the body. That’s why, at PPF, we pride ourselves on being an all-inclusive studio. When you enter the doors of our studio there are people of all shapes and sizes. Body positivity is of vital importance and this is one of the reasons we no longer run challenges, which are often rewarded solely on weight loss.
Being active and healthy is much more important than how big or small you are! Find a studio that makes you feel included, safe and good about yourself. You will enjoy your Pilates session so much more if you feel comfortable and respected for who you are.
Start on the MatÂ
We always recommend that newbies to Pilates start on the mat, before working your way up to the reformer machines. Think of it as laying down a strong, sturdy foundation. Did you know that Pilates started on the mat? There is a reason for it; because Mat Pilates benefits every single body!
The reformer machines can initially look really intimidating for all body types and sizes. For example, petite clients can sometimes find it difficult to get a good amount of range on the machines. Taller clients can sometimes have trouble feeling comfortable on the machines. This is why starting on the mat works so well!
Building up your core strength, body awareness and confidence with Mat Pilates and Pilates Interval Training (PIT) is a great way to start your Pilates journey. The mat has no limitations: it works the same for every single client.
A few months of regular Mat and PIT classes and your balance, co-ordination and strength will grow. From here, we recommend adding in a cardiovascular class, such as Barre and / or HIIT, High Intensity Interval Training.
The better you get with floor and body weight exercises, the more confident you will be when you hit the Reformer!
Side note: Over the years Em and I have had quite a few clients start on the mat and love it so much that they stay there for all their classes! And by the way, these clients are mega strong!
Follow your Pilates instructors advice
If you attend a Pilates studio that makes you feel welcome, your instructor/s will really care about you. As an instructor and a studio owner, I consider it a privilege that my clients trust me with their bodies and their workouts.
Your instructor always has your safety at the forefront of their mind. If your instructor feels that you are not quite ready to use the reformer machines yet, they will tell you. Following your Pilates instructors' advice is key to benefitting from your Pilates workouts.
In conclusion, all body types can benefit from Pilates:
Provided that:
- You find an inclusive studio where you feel comfortable,
- You start on the Mat, and
- You follow your Pilates instructors advice.
Interested in Joining a Class?
Want to Learn about our Classes? This guide breaks down every class type so you know what to expect when to come to class.
Check out our Timetable to find a time that suits your schedule.
New members can try a week of unlimited classes for just $15, by claiming our New Member Offer.
Stay up-to-date on the latest news from Premium Pilates & Fitness. Follow us on Social Media:
