How Many Times a Week Should You Do Pilates?
Sep 27, 2024
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Getting started with any new fitness routine can feel overwhelming, but when it comes to Pilates, the most important thing is simply to start.
However once you're in, a common question arises: how often should I do Pilates?
1. Start Where You Are: Aim for 1-2 Times a Week
If you’re new to Pilates, congratulations! The biggest hurdle—getting started—is already behind you.
At the beginning, it's more important to build the habit than to worry about how many sessions you can fit into your schedule. Aiming for one to two classes per week is a great place to start. This frequency allows your body to adjust to the new movements while avoiding burnout. Your muscles need time to recover as you learn the ropes.
Tip: Find a class that you enjoy! Whether it’s a traditional mat class or one with props like resistance bands or reformers, finding the type of class that clicks with you makes all the difference in staying motivated.
2. Gradually Increase
As your confidence and stamina grow, you may want to increase your practice to two to four times a week. At this stage, you’ll start to see noticeable improvements in your core strength, posture, flexibility, and overall body tone. You may even find yourself craving your next session.
Consistency is key here. You don’t need to jump straight into more classes, but as you progress, adding an extra day or two can enhance your results. Plus, mixing up your routine with different types of Pilates can keep things fresh and exciting.
Give it a chance. Sticking with Pilates at any level for a few weeks will allow you to see the true benefits—sometimes, results come slowly, but they will come if you stay committed.
3. For Best Results, 4-5 Times a Week
Once Pilates has become part of your regular routine, you might be eager to see just how far you can go. For those looking to really dive in and achieve faster results, practicing Pilates four to five times a week can offer incredible benefits.
At this level, you'll likely notice a profound change not only in your body’s appearance but also in how you feel—improved energy levels, better sleep, and enhanced focus. Pilates can become a central part of your weekly rhythm, helping to balance out the stress and demands of everyday life.
4. Remember: Progress at Your Own Pace
While setting goals for how often to practice Pilates is important, it’s equally crucial to listen to your body. Everyone’s journey looks different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you’re doing Pilates once a week or five times a week, the key is to stay consistent and patient.
Some days your body might need a rest, and that’s okay. Pilates is about balance, both in your body and in your routine.
5. Find a Class That Makes You Smile
Finally, the most important piece of advice: make it fun. A class you enjoy is one you’ll stick with. The beauty of Pilates is that it’s adaptable for all fitness levels and can be tailored to your personal preferences. If you love a challenge, find a more intense reformer class.If you're more about mindfulness and stretching, try a slow-flow mat session.
When you find the right class, Pilates can feel like a gift to your body rather than a workout you have to "get through." So, give yourself permission to experiment with different styles, instructors, and formats.
Final Thoughts: Stick with It
It’s normal to wonder how many times a week you should do Pilates, but the real answer lies in finding a rhythm that works for you. Start slow, build your confidence, and as you become more comfortable, gradually increase your practice.
Once you fall in love with how Pilates makes you feel, it won’t be about how often you “have to” go—it’ll be about how often you want to go. The real magic of Pilates lies not just in the physical benefits, but in how it helps you connect to and appreciate your body.
I still enjoy teaching and attending both relaxing slow flow sessions and more intense Pilates classes, the variety keeps things fun and challenging.
Come Visit Me at the Studio!
If you’re looking to get started or take your practice to the next level, I would love to see you in one of the classes I teach!
The Studios above offer reformer Pilates for beginner and advanced. Taught by experienced instructors classes are dynamic with a focus on form, strength and mobility
Slow flow beginner and intermediate matwork classes, that combine challenge and restoration, with a focus on building strength, mobility, and balance.
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