When it comes to fitness, many people assume that spending hours at the gym or doing intense cardio workouts is the only way to achieve a toned and fit body. However, this is far from the truth. Low impact workouts such as pilates and yoga can be just as effective in achieving your goals, without the high impact on your body. In this article, we will explore the benefits of these disciplines, and how they can help you achieve your fitness goals.
Pilates and yoga are both low impact workouts that can help you achieve a toned body, improved flexibility, and overall fitness. They are designed to work on your body's core muscles, which include your abs, back, and hips. This means that while you are toning your body, you can improve your posture and reduce the risk of injuries.
Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on controlled movements and breathing techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. It involves a series of movements that can be done on a mat or with the help of specialized equipment such as a Reformer or a Ball. It is particularly effective in toning your body and can also improve your posture and reduce lower back pain.
Yoga, on the other hand, is a form of exercise that combines physical movements with breathing and meditation techniques. It has been around for centuries and is known for its ability to improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Yoga is particularly effective in improving your flexibility, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting overall well-being.
As we said before, one common benefit is that they are low impact workouts, which means that they are easy on your joints and muscles. This makes them ideal for people who are recovering from an injury or who have a pre-existing condition that limits their mobility. Additionally, they can be done in the comfort of your home, without the need for any specialized equipment or gym membership.
It is important to underline that they can complement other forms of exercise such as running. For instance, there are specific yoga poses that can be beneficial for runners, helping to stretch and strengthen muscles, particularly those in the knees, reducing the risk of injury.
Where should you start?
Here are some easy yoga poses that you can add to your workout routine:
Downward Dog: This pose stretches the hamstrings, calves, and shoulders. It also strengthens the arms, legs, and core.
Pigeon Pose: This pose helps to open up the hips and stretch the glutes. It can also help to release tension in the lower back.
Triangle Pose: This pose stretches the hamstrings, calves, and hips while also strengthening the legs, core, and back.
Warrior I and II: These poses help to strengthen the legs, hips, and core while also stretching the hips, groin, and shoulders.
Tree Pose: This pose helps to improve balance and strengthen the legs and core.
Incorporating these poses into your fitness routine can help to improve your flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance your overall running performance.
In conclusion, these disciplines not only are easy on your body, but they also provide a range of benefits such as improved flexibility, toning of core muscles, and overall well-being. So next time you're looking to get fit, consider incorporating them into your workout routine and start seeing the benefits for yourself.