Power Pilates is a type of group workout based on the original Pilates, but with the difference that it includes an intensive program designed to build greater strength and endurance. The workout retains the core principles of control and whole-body awareness characteristic of classical Pilates, but requires more dynamic movements performed with greater intensity.
What are the benefits of Power Pilates?
Practicing Power Pilates is extremely beneficial for your overall health.
The workouts target all muscle groups, especially the:
- abdominal muscles
- back muscles
- stabilizing muscles
The strength exercises in Power Pilates help strengthen your muscles and improve their endurance. Over time, you’ll notice significant improvements in flexibility and coordination.
In addition, this group workout has a positive effect on mental health. Practising this sport regularly stimulates the release of endorphins—the body’s natural feel-good hormones—which help reduce pain and increase feelings of pleasure.
The workouts require concentration and mindful breathing, helping to calm the mind and reduce mental stress.
Key Exercises
Power Pilates features a variety of movements that target different muscle groups and improve overall fitness.
A typical exercise is:
The Saw – Sit down and place your legs in a V shape. Extend your arms out to the sides and twist at the waist, reaching your left hand towards the toes of your right foot. Return to the starting position, then repeat the movement on the other side.
Other exercises:
Swimmer – Helps strengthen the spine and develop the abdominal muscles.
Scissors – Works on hip flexibility and stabilises the shoulders and core.
Double leg kick – Helps strengthen the spine and thigh muscles.
Single-leg kick – Helps strengthen the thigh muscles and stabilise the core.
These movements are complemented by other exercises, such as Kneeling bicycle, Standing plié, Roll downs, Hip twist, One leg stretch and Side kick, which also aim to strengthen different parts of the body and improve overall fitness.