I have been teaching yoga and Pilates now for 18 years and creating fun new workouts that stimulate the mind as well as the body is my passion. As I get older, the importance of physical exercise and creating effective (and attainable) training for my students and clients has become the top priority.
Lately, my Playbook subscribers have been loving my Weighted Quick Core workouts. I too love adding small challenges like light hand weights to my Pilates classes and I thought I’d share what the benefits of adding these lightweights are?
- Muscle Toning. Even lightweight will add some extra muscle toning. Depending on the exercise, you could call on an extra effort from muscles in your arms, back, shoulders, chest and down into your core. The reason I use lighter weights is to control the challenge level and to help stabilize and train the core muscles. You will feel the entire workout 3X more by adding just 1-3 pounds to your Pilates exercises.
- Osteoporosis Prevention. Did you know that lifting weights (yes even light weights) can help protect your bones and prevent osteoporosis? Strength training over a period of time can help prevent bone loss and may also help build new bone. According to Web MD, “In one study, postmenopausal women who participated in a strength training program for a year saw significant increases in their bone density in the spine and hips, areas affected most by osteoporosis in older women.” For me, this is SUPER important because I am 44 and realizing how important strong bones are.
- Core Awareness. Using hand weights sends attention, information, and energy back to your core. Even if the weight is light, hand weights will create extra stability work for your shoulders, core, and pelvis. A strong core and stable pelvis can help with anxiety and depression, as well as, help prevent injuries as we move through our day.
- Variety. Keeping variety in your routine will help you avoid burnout and plateauing. If you have ever experienced burnout, it’s really frustrating! Adding just a few pounds can completely change the routine and break your plateau!
I have quite a few classes on my Playbook that include weights. Click below to try out my NEWEST class – Weight For IT – just published this morning!
Try my NEW class on Playbook App using light hand weights to help you increase your muscle tone and core strength. If you are not a member of my Playbook, click here to subscribe and take the FREE 7-day trial!
Please share this information with anyone who might benefit! Feel free to email me if you have any questions!
