Hi guys! Chris here, aka Premium Pilates Dad. 

Today I want to talk about the unspoken reality of being a dude in a Pilates class - something we need to normalise more of. 

What is a Pilates class? 

Let’s scope out the basics here. Pilates is a low-impact workout that aims to strengthen muscles while improving flexibility and postural alignment. Classes typically run for 35-45 minutes and are led by instructors that can accommodate your flexibility level. All you need in class is a pair of socks and a water bottle, with water not alcohol. 😉

My Tips to Know Before Going to Pilates 

• There are different types of Pilates classes and there’s a fitness style to suit everybody. My tip is to choose a class that appeals to you. To help you choose which ones to attend, think about what goals you might have. If you’re going for a resistance workout, try Reformer Pilates. If you’re keen to really engage your core and work on those weak glutes, Matwork Pilates may be the class for you. 

• Be prepared to tone, lengthen and strengthen! You’ll try exercises you never knew existed. But, don’t let this scare you off, there are different positions for all ability levels. The instructor will guide you through it too, so you don’t have to be the sharpest tool in the shed! 

• Ladies won’t laugh at you for being there. In fact, they will most likely admire how manly you are for throwing aside those gender constructed norms and doing something to actually benefit your body. Plus, apart from the instructor, no one else cares what you’re doing. They will be too focused on themselves.

• It’s okay to start small. The bigger your goal, the more likely you are to fail. So, just ease into it and take one step at a time. 1-2 classes a week works well if you’re a beginner. 

• Don’t take yourself too seriously fellas. Say it after me: “We believe in sanity, not vanity.” WHY you exercise is more important than WHAT you do in the exercise. 

• I can promise you that you’re not ‘too manly for Pilates’. Per the above comment, plus; Pilates was invented by a man. A crazy German man (not that one) but a man nonetheless.

• Keep it FUN! What do 100% Canadian Maple Syrup and Pilates have in common? They’re both freaking life-changing! 

What results can I expect from Pilates? 

The man, the myth, the legend that is Joseph Pilates once said, “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a whole new body.”

But, we all progress differently, so you’ve got to remember to do what works for YOU. If getting a six-pack is something you want, go for it! If you want to do some exercise but still enjoy a pint of ice cream, you know I am all for that too!

Okay, love you, bye.

Wanting to try Pilates but can't make it to the studio? Join our online platform for just $1 a day. Browse through hundreds of workouts you can do from the comfort of your own home.

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Read our previous blog "4 Reasons Men Should do Pilates" to find out more about the benefits of incorporating this form of exercise into your regular workout regime.

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