The short answer is no, because you already have the perfect bikini body – all you need to do is put on a bikini and you’re ready for the beach!
I don’t recommend Pilates, or any kind of exercise, as a way to lose weight or change the shape of your body. Exercise should be for health, not for appearance. Of course, any form of exercise helps to burn calories and burning calories can help you lose weight (if you eat more calories than you need and have extra weight to lose), but a wiser choice would be to eat fewer calories in the first place and exercise for your health, not to lose weight. It’s also worth noting that slim, toned bodies are no more beautiful than soft, curvy ones – we all see beauty in different ways!
That said, carrying around extra weight is bad for your whole body – your bones, joints, heart, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, digestion and even brain function. Losing weight (if you are overweight) can help improve your overall health. Being less heavy also makes it easier to exercise, which can further improve your health. Even for those who are not overweight, exercise should be about health and not about toning your bum or flattening your tummy.
Instead, exercise to improve muscle function so you can move more easily and support your joints as they begin to age and weaken. Exercise to keep your heart healthy. Exercise for the wonderful feeling of wellness that it brings to your body and mind. If your bum turns into a peach in the process, then that’s an added bonus, but it shouldn’t be your focus. Your body and mind will be so much better off with regular exercise, even if your bum stays exactly the same shape.
Pilates is a wonderful form of exercise as it works the whole body in a safe way. There is little or no impact, so no stress on any joints. While Pilates focuses on the muscles of your “core” (bum, pelvic floor, lower back and deep tummy muscles), which are essential for your posture and to protect your spine, it also works the muscles of the legs, arms, hands, feet and neck. The exercises are done in a precise way, which helps improve concentration and coordination.
The breathing techniques used help you to breathe deeply and exhale fully, which both calms the mind and improves cardiovascular health. Pilates will help you feel and look taller as you learn to stand more erect and square your shoulders. It helps with balance and coordination, so you can take off your shoes without falling over. It helps your overall strength and mobility, ensuring you can go about your daily life with greater ease.
See you on the beach! Keep moving!
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June Molloy 