When I talk with people about Pilates’ benefits and how it’s a great complement to the things they already do, they almost always ask me how often they should practice it. While I’d love to easily say “three to four times a week”, it isn’t that simple (sorry!). The real answer depends on your life, job, body, hobbies, schedule, fitness level, etc. We’re all different, which means your Pilates won’t be the same as mine.
I recall a conversation I had with one client that said Pilates made her feel really good for two or three days, and then she needed to go to another class. She used it to “reset” her body, help her loosen up, and feel good for her runs, hikes, and fitness classes. I feel the same way! Pilates is part of my everyday life but it’s not always a full workout, so I make sure to get in three to four sessions each week. After some time doing Pilates, you’ll find the right rhythm for your routine, but until then here are some suggestions on how often you should do Pilates.
If You’re Just Getting Into Fitness
Someone who’s just starting to exercise again (or for the first time) should start with a couple of sessions a week. I often see people get excited about working out and they’ll tell me they’re going to jump right in and exercise every day. Unfortunately, this leads to being really sore. Which then leads to having to skip a few days, a loss of motivation, feeling disappointed in yourself, and finally quitting. That’s the last thing I want to happen to you! When you’re starting anything new, it’s best to take it slowly. Give yourself time to recover between sessions and learn how to best fit fitness into your routine. As your body and schedule adapt, you can add more movement in a way that works for you.
If You’re Active Already
If you’re already an active person, you’re used to having fitness as part of your life. Adding in Pilates will help you stay strong and mobile for the activities you already do, you just need to shuffle things around to make it fit. Most of my active clients do Pilates two to four times a week. Some only work out in the studio, while others love the at-home Sweat with Melissa workouts. In the Winter Bootcamp that just finished, a few members said they used Pilates to help them wind down at the end of the day. However you weave Pilates into your already active lifestyle, your body will thank you for the extra strength, mobility, and flexibility.
If You’re a Pilates Teacher in Training
There is a lot to be learned about Pilates if you’re a teacher in training. You’ll read about Pilates and study the equipment set-up, but practicing the exercises yourself is the most important part. It’s essential to know how the movements feel in your own body, and you’ll look at the exercises differently through both your own practice and by attending classes. You’ll likely do the most Pilates in your life while studying to be a teacher, which is kind of the point. The more you do it, the more it becomes second nature, and the more at ease you’ll be teaching it.
I’ll Meet You Where You’re At
I don’t think the question should be how often you should do Pilates, but rather how does Pilates make you feel? At first, you’ll probably feel a bit sore. Even if you’re already active, Pilates will let you know what muscles you’ve been ignoring. As that settles down, though, ask yourself how you feel after Pilates, and when your body asks you for more.
After thirty years of working in the fitness industry, I know that my role as your Pilates instructor is to meet you where you’re at and help you get to where you want to go. For some, that may be just moving better and more often, while others may have a big fitness goal in mind, like running a marathon or becoming a Pilates teacher themself. No matter where you are at with Pilates, I’m here to help when you need it.