Guys are you ready for a new challenge for both body and mind?
 
Pilates is slowly breaking free from old stereotypes and gaining traction as a powerful fitness tool for men. With Pilates studios popping up across the country, more men are discovering the unique benefits of Pilates, including improved flexibility, enhanced core strength, and injury prevention. For men who’ve spent years lifting weights but feel stiff or prone to tightness, incorporating Pilates into their training routine can be transformative.
 
We spoke with Claudia Howard, Head of Wellness at One Playground, a leading superboutique in Sydney, to explore why Pilates is becoming a go-to workout for men. Claudia unpacks the current Pilates trends and explains why more men than ever before are turning to Pilates to supplement their exercise routines.
 
So, why Pilates?
Much of the appeal comes from improving flexibility and combatting stiffness – an issue commonly caused through strength training. Pilates addresses stiffness and tightness by targeting deep stabilising muscles and promoting joint mobility. Key areas like the hips, shoulders and lower back often bear the brunt of repetitive heavy lifting, but Pilates helps to stretch and strengthen those areas, with lesser impact on the body. As well as this, Pilates shines a spotlight on core work, strengthening the deep core muscles that support posture and stability, often leading to better performance.
 
We are also seeing more and more professional athletes adding Pilates to their exercise routines. Seeing high- profile athletes integrate Pilates into their training has shifted perceptions and is helping to break the stereotype that Pilates is female oriented. Pilates ability to improve flexibility, mobility and reduce injury risk has been highlighted, with athletes turning to Pilates as a low impact exercise. Building those smaller, stabilising muscles has a multitude of benefits and builds a balanced, injury-proof body, which is key in professional sport.
 
The other reason that men are drawn to Pilates, is for the mental benefits that it offers. Mind-body connection is a real thing, and Pilates incorporates breathwork and precision, helping you to find that mind-body connection and become more present.
 
What to expect at your first Pilates class
Controlled Movements: No explosive movements here please. Pilates focuses on slow, controlled movements to build strength and mobility.
 
Equipment Options: Classes may use a reformer – a spring- loaded machine that adds resistance – or stick to mat-based exercises. Both offer effective, full-body workouts, so it’s a matter of personal preference. I love to add a mix of both, variety is the spice of life after all!
 
Feel The Burn: You might not leave drenched in sweat, but we promise that you will leave humbled. Don’t be overwhelmed though, this is activation of mini muscles you didn’t even know you had.
 
How often should you practise Pilates?
I recommend practising Pilates 2-3 times per week to reap the rewards and boost mobility, balance, core strength and flexibility. For the best results, mix Pilates into your regular routine so you have a mix of cardio, strength work, flexibility, and mobility.
 
If you’re feeling tight, struggling with mobility, or seeking a way to elevate your strength training routine, Pilates might just be the perfect complement. Give it a try, and you might discover a whole new level of strength—inside and out.
 
Nathan Tito, member of One Playground and founder of St Collective shared that ‘Pilates at One Playground is a game-changer! The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable providing a challenging yet supportive environment for all levels, as well as the aesthetic of the studio being absolutely stunning.’ We love hearing when Sydneysiders are falling in love with a new form of movement! Explore One Playground’s gyms and Pilates offering here.
 
 
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