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Pilates is a series of exercises inspired by yoga and ballet. Pilates lengthens and stretches all of the important muscle groups in your body in a balanced fashion. It enhances flexibility, strength, balance and body awareness. It can better your muscular and postural strength.

Today, when stress and strain have become unavoidable parts of our life, keeping our body and mind healthy is more important than ever before. Rather, if you have sound health and a relaxed mind, you can be more productive.

Though, we don’t have much time to spend exercising, working on pilates can give you several perks.

This type of exercise was developed by Joseph Pilates and he introduced these exercises for the injured dancers and soldiers in the UK. Pilates method is taught to suit each person and exercises are daily re-evaluated to ensure that they are correct for everyone practicing it. As it is designed for individual attention, it can be suitable for everybody from professional athletes to people with thwarted mobility, pregnant women and people with low fitness levels. 

Pilates is adaptable in many fitness levels 

Whether you are a senior or starting your exercise regime, an athlete or somewhere in between, the pilates movements are applicable for you. If you want to work upon building your core strength, focusing on proper alignment, this body and mind integrative approach makes pilates suitable for all.  You can learn pilates exercises to achieve your health goals. 

Pilates exercises can increase body flexibility 

Pilates reformers can be used to safely increase in length and stretch muscles and range of motion within the joints.

Proactive Pilates Equipment offers perfectly designed pilates reformers in Melbourne to provide a result-driven workout and is an award-winning company for manufacturing the best pilates equipment that you can find online. You can also rent pilates equipment from us to chisel a perfect body. Being in the industry for more than 15 years, your health and optimum performance is our goal. Our pilates reformers are preferred by the physiotherapists, gyms, pilates studios and home users too.

Are you a fitness freak? Have you tried out multiple fitness regimes already without any desirable outcomes? You might have missed Pilates exercises then, which offers plenty of benefits to your body, no matter your fitness background. 

Why are Pilates exercises so popular? 

First of all, Pilates is a low-impact exercise and effective for developing healthy muscle and maintaining a healthy weight. However, Pilates exercises may not be as effective for weight loss as many cardio exercises, such as running or swimming.

How do Pilates exercises benefit you?

You will be able to improve your posture, focus on bodily alignment, and get one heck of a core workout. Pilates is known for promoting weight loss, a long and lean appearance, creating strong muscles, while teaching you to move with ease and grace. 

5 Prime Health Benefits of Pilates:

1. Align your body and rejuvenate your life
2. Improved flexibility
3. Enhanced muscular control of your back and limbs
4. Balanced muscular strength on both sides of your body
5. Increased muscle strength and tone (especially abdominal muscles, lower back, and hips and buttocks)

Which body areas do Pilates exercise benefit particularly?

Pilates exercises may impact your body and health overall, but its main focus is on core, arms and legs and your posture and movement. The low-impact Pilates exercises improve physical flexibility and mobility and make your muscles stronger. 

How does Pilates work? 

The Pilates exercises are practiced on a range of Pilates equipment that includes gym mats, foam rollers, trapeze tables, reformer boxes, Pilates rings, jump boards, etc. All these help you to do a series of movements and achieve a stable and strong core.  

Aren’t You Ready to Buy These Pilates Supplies Right Now?

No problem if you are not ready to buy Pilates supplies right away! You can rent Pilates supplies in Melbourne. It is a leasing arrangement with no deposit, monthly repayments and a range of features. It comes with the option of upgrading equipment before the lease term expires.

Do you want to learn more about rental Pilates supplies in Melbourne service? Click here.

Are you thinking about becoming a Pilates instructor?  No matter what your career background is, doing what you love is always a possibility – providing you research the best path to take.

If being a Pilates instructor is your dream, here’s what you can do to get started on your path to your ideal role – as well as some helpful items from ProActive Pilates Equipment Australia which could help you along the way.

Build Up Your Own Pilates Skills

Before even thinking about teaching anyone else, you should already have a healthy interest in Pilates and have built up your own set of skills. Take a class, ask questions, and even ask your instructor about how they got their career started. You can’t effectively learn to teach something if you don’t know the ins and outs of it.

Take a Look at Pilates Instructor Courses

Many institutions offer instructor certification. As you study, you’ll prepare for teaching others in a group. Some certifications only cover mat teaching, while others are more comprehensive and prepare you to teach using Pilates equipment too.

If you’re planning on doing this as a full-time career, it is better to open up your options by choosing one that will allow you to cover all your bases.

After Certification, Obtain Insurance

The biggest step between becoming certified and getting started in your new career is insurance. You’ll need liability insurance just in case any incidents occur during your class.

Find a Venue

Once you’re insured, you’re free to go ahead and start teaching. You can hire a hall or empty studio at your local gym, or even seek employment by a company itself as a full-time Pilates instructor. The choice is yours.

What You’ll Need

Once you have a place secured and all setup, it’s time to consider the Pilates equipment you’ll need to fill it with (if this isn’t already provided by your venue or studio). Here’s a quick list of items you might want to consider:

• Yoga Mats: You’ll likely find that most of your class members will bring their own yoga mat, but it’s important to have one of your own and a few spare just in case a member forgets.
• Foam Rollers: These are useful to have for certain Pilates movements and rehabilitation exercises.
• Reformer Boxes: These provide options for additional Pilates exercises.
• Pilates Rings: If you’re looking to add more resistance to a Pilates exercise, a Pilates ring is one way to do so.
• Pilates Reformers: A Pilates Reformer, or Pilates machine, open up a whole new variety of Pilates workout options.
• Jump Boards: These can be fitted to the Reformer to offer extra exercise options.
• Trapeze Tables: These are another option for introducing a wider range of Pilates exercises and are also a must-have for any Pilates studio.

If you’re looking for Pilates equipment in Australia, Pro Active Pilates Equipment Melbourne has everything you need. Our selection of high-quality equipment is the best choice for any studio or instructor looking to give their clients the best Pilates experience at an accessible price - so check out our range today.

In recent years, the concept of mindfulness has become even more popular. It is essentially a focus on being present in the moment, rather than letting our minds go elsewhere.

It’s a way to enjoy moments without worrying about stress, or improving productivity by focusing only on the task at hand. Whatever you use mindfulness for, it’s an excellent skill to have and use in your daily life.

But how does that tie in with Pilates? Read on to find out...

Thinking During Pilates

Pilates consists of a variety of exercises and movements which are done slowly, creating a steady flow between each one. Whether you’re using a mat or Pilates equipment such as a Pilates Reformer, it’s important to focus on your breathing, alignment and engaging the right muscles. This is not an exercise you can rush.

While it may seem like a lot to remember at first, it’ll soon start to come naturally as you build up your Pilates skills.

As you focus on keeping your body in the correct state during Pilates, you’ll find that it’s difficult to think about anything else. This is a good thing! You’re removing anything else that’s on your mind and staying present and grounded – all through Pilates.

Why is this a good thing?

By clearing your mind and only thinking about the task at hand, you will likely experience relaxation, decreased anxiety and an improvement in your mood. That’s why many people claim that Pilates is not only great for your body, it’s great for your mind and mental health too.

After your class or workout session, you’ll leave feeling calm and refreshed with a positive approach to the rest of your day.

Does all Pilates allow for mindfulness?

Yes! Whether you’re doing Mat Pilates or trying out new moves on a Pilates Reformer, as long as you focus only on your body and breathing, you’ll be on the right path to a more mindful state.

Simply concentrate on the elements we’ve outlined above and let it come naturally, clearing your mind of any intrusive thoughts.

Looking for Pilates equipment in Australia?

If you like the idea of encouraging your Pilates class members to be more mindful, providing the right equipment and inspiring them to try new moves is an excellent place to start. ProActive Pilates Equipment Melbourne can provide a wide range of Pilates Equipment ranging from mats and accessories to a Pilates Reformer or Trapeze Table.

Take a look at our range - we hope you’ll place an order in the near future.

Attending your first Pilates class is a big step – and an excellent decision for anyone looking to become more active, improve their fitness and find something they enjoy too.

But even though you’re probably already aware of the many benefits of Pilates – and have maybe even tried it out at home – heading out to your first class can be a little bit nerve-racking.

If you’re considering giving a Pilates class a try but are feeling anxious about the experience, it’s time to calm your fears. Here’s how…

Realise that your skill level doesn’t matter.

If you’re new to Pilates and are worried that your skills won’t match up to others’ in your class, don’t be afraid. Classes are usually available for different levels, so see if you can locate a beginners’ class in your area.

You should also remind yourself that everyone has to start somewhere. Those in your class who seem so much more skilled were once just like you – and they’ll completely understand how you’re feeling.

Remember it’s okay if you don’t know anyone.

If you’re worried about not knowing anyone, there’s no need to be. People at Pilates classes tend to be welcoming, as they think it’s great that a new person is taking part in an activity they love.

You may also consider the mindset that people aren’t there to make friends – they’re there to improve, so focus on the physical aspects rather than the social elements.

Alternatively, why not see if you can persuade a friend to join the class with you? Having someone to attend with will be fun for both of you, and you’ll be able to encourage and support each other as your skills develop.

Relax knowing you’re in good hands.

Do a little research on the instructor of your local class. Learning a bit about them will help you get more of an idea of what to expect. Hopefully, they’ll come across as friends online, be reassuring you that you’ll be welcome when you arrive.

You’ll also get to read about their experience and qualifications, which are a clear sign that they value their work and are dedicated to helping others achieve their Pilates goals.

Not quite ready to take a class?

If you’d still rather spend some time practising Pilates at home before moving on to a class, Pro Active Pilates Equipment can provide the simple essentials you need to get started, including a Yoga Mat (also great for Pilates), Foam Rollers, Pilates Rings and Reformer Boxes.

If you have any questions about the type of equipment you’d need, get in touch with us as ProActive Pilates Equipment Melbourne and we’ll be happy to help – but don’t let fear stop you from taking a Pilates class soon.

Pilates is beneficial for everyone.

From people overcoming injuries in a rehabilitation centre to individuals who are trying to maintain their health, Pilates Equipment is gaining popularity all over the world. However, did you know that there are many specific benefits of Pilates for runners?

Many athletes think that they can improve their running skills only by running more. But that’s not true. Running focuses on the body as a whole. To manage the consistent force through our lower body, our bodies need proper neuromuscular control. When it comes to running, we recommend quality over quantity. Pilates accommodates quality through focusing on core strength exercises and programs designed to help you improve this neuromuscular control, thereby contributing to improved flexibility, core strength, and body awareness and stability.

The following are a few reasons that recommend Pilates as a form of exercise for runners.

1. Body Awareness

One of the five basic principles of Pilates is proper breathing. There is a particular focus on mindfulness and body awareness. Breathing helps you tune in to your body, leading to improved coordination of brain and muscle function. It also assists in reducing pain.

2. Variety

Running happens mostly in a straight plane, and thus it is easily performed once practised. However, a few runners can find it difficult to run on steep hills or in rocky areas. This is because of instability which can contribute to injuries.

Pilates offers variety from running and helps work out many of the core and hip stabilising muscles, so your movements do not get hampered on different surfaces. The benefits are overall improvement adapting to different surroundings and in refining muscle control.

3. Flexibility

Stretching has forever been a part of the running world. This is because often there are times when specific muscles in a runner are weak or are working too hard to try to stabilise or compensate for deficiencies and imbalances elsewhere. Pilates helps in promoting muscle balance and in enhancing running technique/biomechanics.

4. Improve Endurance and Speed

As a runner, you should understand that a healthy, balanced body helps you maintain proper form as you fatigue. Pilates helps you maintain fluid muscle movement through preventing tightness in your hips, legs, and back.

5. Quicker and Comprehensive Recovery

Pilates contributes to decreasing your recovery time after injury or a strenuous workout by fostering joint mobility and improving flexibility and body awareness. With a regular Pilates routine, you have better performing muscles and feel less fatigued after a long, challenging run. 

6. Develops Healthy Movement Patterns

Pilates encourages healthy movement patterns, like control of the spine, correcting foot movement and stride pattern, etc. It focuses on stabilizing and controlling actions while releasing unnecessary tension or restricted movements.

If you are a runner or want to start running, adding Pilates workouts to your routine is highly recommended. When you are ready to start, take a look at our range of products at ProActive Pilates Equipment Australia. We have everything from the basic yoga mat and accessories, to Pilates Reformers for home and studio use. Moreover, always feel free to get in touch with any questions.

Staying fit and healthy is one of the most important aspects of modern, urban life. There is so much available on the market that can help you to stay healthy- you can hit the gym, take a yoga class, dance along at a Zumba class,….. However, this isn’t always feasible to incorporate into your daily life. It can either get expensive or time-consuming. But don’t lose hope because we are introducing you to a magical piece of training equipment- the Pilates Ring.

A Pilates Ring is a fantastic invention. It is a lightweight, flexible ring or circle that provides resistance for your muscles. With two padded handles on either side, it allows you to push-in or squeezes it between different parts of your body. It works very well between thighs, calves, ankles, arms and torso, or even between your palms.

The Pilates workout method benefits exercisers of all strength levels and ages; it promotes body stability, strength, and endurance. Moreover, the good part is, exercises with a Pilates Ring can easily be done at home without any other exercise equipment. Hence any at-home Pilates aficionado should strongly consider investing in a Pilates Ring.

Benefits of a Pilates Ring

1. Stronger muscles: The ring adds additional resistance to your muscles that help in developing strength.
2. Improved balance: The ring provides extra resistance, thereby engaging your core to complete the exercises and improving your stability that much more.
3. A stronger heart: Because a ring adds more resistance to a Pilates workout, your heart muscles work harder, which makes it stronger and more endurable.

A few exercises for your lower and upper body that a Pilates Ring workout will allow you to do.

1. Upper Body
2. Stand tall while focusing on the core.
3. Hold the circle between your palms at waist height.
4. Push-in the circle ten times.
5. Now, squeeze it in as you extend your arms over your head and back down to your chest, ten times.
6. Repeat the same routine at chest height, shoulder height and overhead. Remember to stand straight, keeping your navel pulled in towards the spine.

2. Lower Body
3. Lie down, placing one foot flat on the ground while resting the ankle of your other leg on the pad of the circle.
4. As you raise your upper body, extend your arms and push your ankle down to compress the ring. Pump arms up and down for ten full breaths as you maintain pressure on the circle.
5. Change legs and repeat.

If you are looking for an exercise routine that is convenient and efficient, a Pilates Ring is a great addition. You can go through ProActive Pilates Equipment Melbourne’s products section and find yourself a high-quality Pilates Ring that fits your budget.