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Let’s transform with Wall Pilates!
Are you in your 40s? Have you been feeling disconnected? Perhaps feeling down or needing more energy and motivation to carry on? If so, don’t look any further. 40 is just a number! – and your number doesn’t define who you are! You can be fabulous at any age! Let me tell you a great way to feel and look great. The best news is that it only takes a few weeks to see results. Did I get your attention? Let me tell you how you can also transform with Wall Pilates.
My decision to try Wall Pilates has been a transformative one. Not only have I experienced physical benefits such as improved core strength, better posture, increased flexibility, and less pain and discomfort, but I have also gained a greater sense of mindfulness and an enjoyable way to stay active. In this blog post, I want to share my journey and the compelling reasons behind my decision to try Wall Pilates.
What is Wall Pilates?
Pilates is a physical fitness system created by a German gentleman called Joseph Pilates over 90 years ago. As a young child, he suffered from asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever. Determined to overcome his physical limitations, he became deeply interested in physical fitness and body conditioning. In 1926, Joseph Pilates immigrated to the United States with his wife Clara, where they opened a studio in New York City called “The Body Conditioning Gym.”
Pilates is practiced worldwide and has evolved into various schools and approaches, including Classical and Contemporary Pilates. During the last 90 years, Pilates has gradually developed by integrating modern techniques and using different props to enhance the workout experience, such as a Pilates bar, block, foam roller, resistance band, and Pilates ball. However, the newest trend – Pilates Wall Workout – does not require any prop other than a wall. Therefore, you can even practice it from the comfort of your own home.
Transform with Wall Pilates
Wall Pilates is a fun and engaging relatively new fitness trend based on traditional Pilates. It incorporates a wall as a prop to support and improve your exercise experience. It can be adapted for different fitness levels and goals, making it suitable for a wide range of individuals. Also, it offers a diverse range of exercises that can target different muscle groups.
Pilates is renowned for emphasizing core strength, alignment, and mind-body connection. The method has continued to evolve and adapt to the needs and goals of various individuals, making it a versatile and enduring approach to physical fitness and well-being.
Related: How to Discover Inner Peace Through Wall Pilates?
Why Wall Pilates is Ideal for 40+
What happens to our body when we turn 40? Various physical and psychological changes occur. You might ask, overnight? It sure felt like that to me. First of all, metabolism significantly slows down, meaning we can gain more easily and faster. Yes, I can attest to that. I never really had issues with belly fat until I turned 40. Now, it feels and looks like everything goes to my belly!
Additionally, we slowly lose muscle mass and strength without regular exercise. What else? Bone density also starts decreasing along with cognitive, emotional, and psychological functioning. Okay, this is depressing! Instead of talking more about the negatives, let’s focus on all the positive areas that we could improve with Wall Pilates.
40 and Fabulous! Let’s see the areas to transform with Wall Pilates!
Core strength. Like traditional Pilates, Wall Pilates places a strong emphasis on strengthening the core muscles, including the abdominal muscles, lower back, and pelvic floor. Many exercises involve engaging these core muscles while using the wall for support.
Balance and Stability. The wall helps with balance and stability. It provides support that can be useful for beginners or those looking to challenge their balance.
Flexibility. Wall Pilates incorporates stretches and movements that can improve flexibility and range of motion in various muscle groups. Stretching with the wall can assist in achieving deeper and safer stretches.
Improved Alignment and Posture. Posture is something many of us struggle with in our daily lives, often sitting for extended periods at work or spending hours hunched over screens. Wall Pilates focuses on alignment and body awareness, helping you correct postural issues and develop a stronger, more balanced physique.
Body and Mind Connection. It encourages mindfulness, focusing on breath, body alignment, and precise movements by promoting body awareness and relaxation. It is a fun exercise where you can actually see results in a matter of time, which is a big motivational fact for many! I know it is for me! A good workout releases all the “feel good” hormones that elevate mood and reduce stress. You achieve a better physical appearance which can boost your self-esteem. Because when you feel good in your body, it shows. It’s all connected!
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Step by step. What do you need to start?
First of all, you have to want to do it! I can’t make you do it. Ultimately, you have to make the decision and stick to it consistently!
So, where to start? What are the things you need today to transform with Wall Pilates?
You will need a good, extra soft, non-slip exercise mat. Look for something thicker and comfier because you’ll spend time on the floor. An extra thick mat helps with aching knees and hips, and it’s better for your joints, too. It is a small detail, but it pays off in the long run, making your overall workout experience better.
Some people like to wear non-slip socks. I prefer barefoot, but it depends on the wall, too. You should also have a small towel beside you and a water bottle to hydrate. Check out these motivational glass water bottles.
If you want to be even more motivated, pick out some cute workout clothes. Because when you look cute, you feel good!
Finally, last but not least, start eating a little healthier every day and increase your water intake — more fresh food, like veggies, fruit, and more quality grains to your diet. Whole foods are generally the best source of essential nutrients because they provide a wide range of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other compounds that contribute to overall health. Don’t go cold turkey; make changes slowly so as not to overwhelm your system.
Even though Wall Pilates is a low-impact workout, your body is still working hard to achieve your goals. Therefore, you will burn more than just fat, calories, and energy. You need to resupply and refuel your body.
7 tips on how to stay on track and be consistent with your new routine to transform with Wall Pilates
Staying consistent with a new workout routine can be challenging, but there are many helpful tactics you can use to stay on track and accomplish your fitness goals. Remember that building a consistent workout routine takes time and effort. It’s essential to stay committed, stay patient, and focus on your goals to achieve long-term success.
- Set realistic goals and define your expectations. What do you want to achieve? Do you want to lose belly fat, work on your posture, get rid of cellulite, or gain more muscle mass and get ripped?
- Create a schedule. Start small; don’t try to exhaust or overwhelm yourself! Begin with manageable workouts that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
- Track your progress. Seeing improvements can be extremely motivating. Start a workout journal, a printable chart, or track your progress on an app.
- Set reminders. Whether it’s an alarm or a calendar notification, it can be very helpful in order to stay on track.
- Be patient with yourself! Everything in life takes time.
- Listen to your body. You know your own body more than anyone else. It’s essential to pay attention to the signals. If you’re tired, sore, or injured, don’t push yourself too hard. Rest and recovery are vital parts of a successful fitness routine.
- Reward yourself! My favorite part! 🙂 You work so hard to achieve your goals; make sure to pamper yourself. Celebrate your achievements with small rewards, such as a healthy treat, or surprise yourself with a cute outfit. It’s all about You, so whatever makes you happy! Positive reinforcement can boost your motivation.
Related: How to Self-Care for a Balanced Life? 8 Must-Try Self-Care Favorites
There is even an APP to make things easier!
You can find lots of full Wall Pilates videos on Pinterest or YouTube, but if you want to make things even easier, try out a Pilates Wall Workout App. I am familiar with “BetterMe.” This app is very convenient when you just start your Pilates journey. It is easy to register; you can sign up for a week, 4 weeks, or 12 weeks and cancel anytime. You will start with a quick quiz to help create the best plan for you. It also allows you to pick areas you would like to improve. For example, core, legs, glutes, or full body. Personally, I prefer full body exercise as my job requires me to sit in front of the computer for half a day. Pilates helps with my neck and shoulder pain, and I noticed my posture is much better as well, with less discomfort!
Workouts are 15 minutes, but right after you finish, it asks you if you would like to continue and work on specific areas for additional exercise. You can even track your water intake, calories, and step goals throughout the day. Moreover, click on the meal button and explore your daily health food recommendations. You can also join challenges or get support on fasting. It’s pretty neat!
See my before and after photos here. This is after 26 days of wall pilates 4-5 times a week for 15-30 minutes a day.
My biggest goal is to get rid of that muffin top and get my round booty back! What are your goals?
In conclusion, remember that building a consistent workout routine takes time and effort. It’s essential to stay committed and stay focused on your goals to achieve long-term success. Set realistic goals, track your progress, and most importantly, BE PATIENT with yourself! Don’t get discouraged by minor slip-ups; instead, focus on the bigger picture and your long-term goals.