Watch: Jacqueline Fernandez nails a rigorous Pilates session; tips to combine it with other workouts for maximum benefit

“@jacquelienefernandez her energy to our Pilates sessions! Sweating and smiling all the way,” Karachiwala captions the post.”

The clip highlights the challenging nature of Pilates and its effectiveness in building core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. But, while Pilates alone offers numerous benefits, combining it with other exercises can lead to even more impressive results.

Benefits of combining Pilates with other forms of exercises

Akshay, managing director at FitClub, agrees, “Combining Pilates with other forms of exercise, such as strength training or cardio, offers a multitude of benefits that can enhance overall fitness and well-being.”

Pilates focuses heavily on core muscles, which are essential for maintaining stability and balance during other workouts. A strong core also reduces the risk of injury and improves performance in exercises like lifting weights or running.

“The controlled movements and stretches in Pilates increase flexibility, which can enhance the effectiveness of strength training and cardio workouts by allowing a greater range of motion,” Akshay informs. 

Pilates emphasises proper alignment and posture, which can help correct imbalances caused by other forms of exercise and reduce the risk of injuries. It can also “aid in muscle recovery and reduce soreness after intense workouts.”

Pilates enhances muscular endurance, helping you to sustain longer and more intense workouts, whether they involve lifting weights or engaging in high-intensity cardio.

Specific Pilates exercises that complement certain types of workouts more effectively, as mentioned by Akshay

*Upper Body Workouts: After a strength training session focusing on the chest and triceps, Pilates exercises like ‘Arm Circles’ and ‘Push-Up Prep’ can help stretch and strengthen the upper body, promoting muscle recovery and flexibility.

*Lower Body Workouts: Following a leg day, Pilates exercises such as ‘Leg Circles’ and “Shoulder Bridge” target the lower body muscles, improving hip flexibility and aiding in recovery.

*Core Workouts: Pilates exercises like the ‘Plank’ and ‘Hundred’ are excellent for enhancing core strength, which is fundamental for all forms of exercise. These moves stabilise the torso and improve overall balance.

*Cardio Workouts: Incorporating Pilates exercises like the ‘Roll-Up’ and ‘Spine Stretch’ can help stretch and lengthen muscles after a cardio session, reducing muscle tension and enhancing flexibility.

Pilates focuses heavily on core muscles, which are essential for maintaining stability and balance during other workouts. (Source: Freepik)

Precautions to take when combining Pilates with other high-intensity workouts

-Start Gradually: Begin by incorporating Pilates sessions two times a week and gradually increase the frequency as your body adapts.

-Seek professional guidance: Working with a qualified Pilates instructor can ensure you are using the correct form and techniques, which is crucial for preventing injuries.

-Balance Your Routine: Ensure that your Pilates exercises complement your primary workouts

-Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels and respond accordingly. If you experience excessive soreness or fatigue, adjust your routine.

-Warm-Up and Cool Down: Always include a proper warm-up before and a cool-down after your workouts. This prepares your muscles for exercise and aids in recovery.

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