Why Pilates Should Be in Your Routine & Where to Join

The health and fitness industry is often flooded with new trends, but Pilates remains a constant favorite.

Initially designed as a system of controlled movements and mindful breathing, Pilates has outgrown its origins in rehabilitation clinics.

With a rapidly growing fan base and numerous benefits, Pilates studios now dominate the fitness scenes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Karve, a popular London-based studio, is set to open its doors at Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz this Sunday.

“Dubai is really a hub for health and fitness, thanks to its young and active population,” says Gulsun Deniz, lead trainer at Tula Pilates + Wellness, Springs Souk.

“Pilates offers a range of benefits and can complement other sports and workouts effectively.”

Pilates, often described as a mind-body exercise, was invented by German physical trainer Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century.

While recovering from various illnesses and injuries, he developed the method, believing that strengthening the body's core muscles could lead to optimal health and better posture.

Originally focused on rehabilitation, Pilates has now become a mainstream fitness practice due to its ability to boost strength, flexibility, and coordination.

Over the years, Pilates has evolved to include different types targeting various goals and skill levels. Mat Pilates forms the foundation of the practice, according to Deniz.

“For first-timers, I highly recommend Mat Pilates,” she says. “It's where you learn the principles and philosophy of Pilates.”

Mat Pilates is performed on a mat, using body weight, and emphasizes controlled movements and breathwork without any equipment, making it perfect for beginners.

There are also other forms such as Chair Pilates, which uses a sturdy chair for support and balance during exercises, making it suitable for those with limited mobility or recovering from injuries.

Cadillac Pilates employs apparatus with bars, straps, and loops for more advanced exercises.

Reformer Pilates is another popular variation, using a machine with springs and pulleys to add resistance and allow a greater range of motion.

“These equipment-based Pilates forms are ideal for people already familiar with the practice,” says Deniz.

“For instance, the reformer can be very beneficial for injury rehabilitation and can also be comfortably used by expectant mothers.”

While some might think Pilates suits only a specific body type, Deniz emphasizes that it benefits “everyone who needs flexibility, strength, and mobility.”

“It's essential for everyone to feel welcomed, motivated, and supported in their classes,” she adds.

For beginners, Deniz advises arriving early to meet the instructor before a class and get a quick introduction to the machine if needed.

Pilates is well-known for enhancing core strength and flexibility, but Deniz also highlights its benefits for mind-body connection.

“Practicing Pilates creates more motor units in the brain for each body part, which is crucial for a healthy functioning body,” she explains.

According to Shaazia Qureishi Kanchwala, co-founder of PAD: Pilates and Dance, The Greens, choosing the right Pilates studio involves finding a style that interests you.

“It’s also about deciding if you prefer working out with equipment or on the mat,” she adds.

“Equally important is finding an instructor and a studio with the right vibe because, ultimately, you need to leave feeling great, and everyone's energy works differently with different people.”

Studios in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Tula

Opened in February, the Tula studio in Springs Souk provides a variety of classes, such as Reformer Pilates, Barre Pilates, and Aerial Pilates, along with sessions for pre and post-natal care.

Clients can also schedule private Cadillac Pilates sessions.

Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 6.30am - 8pm
  
  
• Saturday: 8am - 5pm
  
  
• Sunday: 10am - 7pm
  
  

Price:

• From Dh175 per class
  
  

Location:

• Springs Souk, Dubai
  
  

Contact:

• 055 474 0012
  
  

Posture

This boutique Pilates studio has recently opened a second branch in Downtown Dubai, featuring a minimalist design with multiple reformer machines.

The studio offers a range of classes, including flow, tempo, and tower Pilates, as well as mat Pilates and vinyasa yoga.

Meditation and sound healing sessions are also available for a more holistic approach. There is also another location in Palm Jumeirah.

Hours:

• Daily, hours vary
  
  

Price:

• From Dh168 per class
  
  

Location:

• Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
  
  

Cima

The new women-only studio in Jumeirah Village Circle boasts three studios within one hub.

The reformer studio features eight machines, catering to beginner, intermediate, and all-level classes.

Additionally, there's an aerial studio and a wellness area for yoga, mat, and barre sessions.

Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 7am - 10pm
  
  
• Saturday and Sunday: 8am - 5pm
  
  

Price:

• From Dh130 per class
  
  

Location:

• Jumeirah Village Circle
  
  

Contact:

• 052 689 0628
  
  

Al Bateen Ladies Club by Matcha

The expansive women-only wellness center in Abu Dhabi is well-known for its beach and padel facilities but also offers Reformer Pilates classes.

Amenities at the 34,000-square-meter venue include a shaded infinity pool, spa, and restaurant. The club is family-friendly with an indoor playground for children.

Hours:

• Daily, 7am - 10pm
  
  

Price:

• From Dh156 per class for non-members
  
  

Location:

• Al Bateen

Source: thenationalnews

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