Five common Pilates myths and misconceptions

Pilates has become an increasingly popular way to exercise, thanks to social media.

However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the workout, so Gemma Folkard, founder of Shape Pilates, a popular Pilates platform and community, has debunked them once and for all.

Pilates is for flexible people

People often think that you have to be flexible to do Pilates, but this is not the case.

"Pilates is the place where you get your flexibility back!" Gemma says. "With a regular practice, you will be able to find strength, mobility and flexibility. Every move combines a stretch and strength combination, so there's no need to warm up or stretch at the end of class, it's all included in the moves."

Pilates is only for women

Pilates has become so popular because it is accessible and anyone can do it.

"Pilates is for every BODY. It was designed by a man, Joseph Pilates, who was a boxer and bodybuilder," the expert points out. "Building strength in the powerhouse, which consists of the abdominals, hips and inner thighs, is extremely beneficial for explosive movements and preventing injury."

Pilates requires equipment

Pilates is accessible because you can do it in the comfort of your own home with just a mat.

"It's pretty common to see people on social media using the Reformer machine or hanging upside down on the Cadillac, but this isn't the only form of Pilates," Gemma explains. "The matwork repertoire was created by Joseph Pilates to fit into people's daily routines wherever they were."

Pilates is just stretching

Pilates is much more than just a series of simple stretches.

"You will get a good stretch in Pilates, but probably not in the way you are expecting, and you might not even realise you're stretching," Gemma says. "Instead of isometric (static) stretches Pilates offers a more dynamic way.

"The two-way stretch requires a hefty load of strength and stability from the centre of the body, which makes the moves extremely challenging."

Pilates is just for young people

Pilates is an inclusive form of exercise because it can be adapted to suit you.

The expert states, "Pilates will take you through every season of your life, from childhood, to young adulthood, to pre and post-natal, menopause and into your senior years. Rooted in rehabilitation, and with six guiding principles of breath, control, concentration, centring, flow and precision, the practice can be adjusted depending on age, body shape and ability."