How Pilates Helps Men Build Muscle
If you think that Pilates is a branch of fitness created solely for women – you have probably fallen victim to the media hype promoting Pilates only among women, and you are very much mistaken. The very fact that this exercise model was created by a man is the greatest proof of that. So, what benefits does practicing Pilates bring for men?
Who was the creator of Pilates?
The answer has already been given: a man 🙂 And seriously – Joseph Pilates – as he is known – suffered from asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever since childhood. He dedicated his entire life to improving his fitness and physical strength. As a fourteen-year-old boy, he posed as an “anatomical map” – he sculpted his body so well. He achieved this through learning Western and Eastern forms of exercise. Additionally, he became a successful boxer and gymnast. He also excelled at skiing and was an excellent swimmer.
What is Pilates?
Pilates training is a series of selected exercises on machines designed by Joseph Pilates (reformers, barrels, chairs, or cadillacs) and on the mat, aimed at strengthening muscles and strength. You will not build the muscles of a bodybuilder from the heaviest gyms – you will build a slim and athletic figure, improve stability and balance, as well as flexibility and endurance of the body. Additionally, by practicing Pilates, you will learn calmness and patience, which result in mastery and complete – conscious! – control of your body.
How does Pilates build muscles?
The exercises you will find in Pilates serve to strengthen muscles, build, and balance the muscles of the spine. Well-developed paravertebral muscles allow for lifting and controlling much heavier weights. This training will prepare your body for solid work on muscle development – by combining it with a proper diet and strength training, you can achieve truly impressive results. Additionally, by practicing Pilates, you will avoid many injuries – strength training alone – unlike Pilates – does not teach agility and proper coordination – and without that, it is very easy to injure yourself.
What is the difference between Pilates and strength training?
You might be wondering what the difference is between Pilates and strength training. It’s like comparing Bruce Lee and Arnold Schwarzenegger – both strong, both well-built, but each in a different way. Lee emphasizes speed, agility, and flexibility – which you can achieve through Pilates sessions, while Schwarzenegger displays large muscles achieved through pure strength training. In other words, Pilates helps build strong muscles and overall fitness, which additionally counteracts the aging process, while the gym helps build a massive body and large muscles. It is up to you which effect you choose.
How to start your Pilates journey?
First of all, choose a studio with a good instructor – Pilates is a very precise field, and only a trained coach can teach you the correct execution of exercises. You can take advantage of various offers and classes in different places to choose an instructor who resonates with you the most. Look for those who have experience training men and athletes. Once you learn the basics, you can also practice at home – this allows for training anywhere and anytime.
I am a graduate in Managerial Economics as well as Finance and Accounting, with a specialization in Marketing. Since 2018, I have been working as a Copywriter at Balanced Body, where I create marketing content for the fitness and Pilates industries. One of my particular strengths is translating complex topics into accessible language and accurately analyzing the needs of target audiences. Outside of work, I am passionate about fire shows and volleyball, which helps me better understand the needs of physically active people.