For years, I’ve been a devoted weightlifting enthusiast, drawn to the tangible results that resistance training consistently offers. However, recently, I ventured into the world of Pilates—a form of mindful exercise that emphasizes core strength, balance, and coordination—and was pleasantly surprised by the transformative impact it had on my fitness routine.
Pilates, with its focus on controlled movements and body alignment, has significantly enhanced my core strength, improved my posture, and refined my coordination. Remarkably, many of these workouts require less than 20 minutes, making them an efficient addition to my exercise regimen.
One Pilates instructor who has caught my attention is Georgia Weibel, known online as Pilates With Georgia. She introduced a new routine that intrigued me, especially since it featured several novel exercises.
On a day when I felt less energetic, I opted to replace my usual hour-long weightlifting session with Weibel’s seven-minute Pilates routine. This decision allowed me to stay active without overexerting myself.
Georgia Weibel’s Pilates Routine Breakdown
Weibel’s routine comprises four distinct exercises, each to be performed for six to eight repetitions per side. Although she recommends multiple rounds for a more intense session, I chose to complete just one round for a gentler workout.
Personal Insights from Swapping Weights for Pilates
Throughout the Pilates routine, I experienced the hallmark of Pilates: a consistent engagement of the core muscles and a notable ‘burn’ during exercises like the half roll-down and double-leg stretch. This was particularly evident in the upper body, with the plank press effectively targeting my shoulders.
However, I found that the routine did not sufficiently challenge my lower body. While it included exercises like squats and lunges, the absence of weights made these movements less demanding compared to my usual strength workouts. Consequently, I wouldn’t categorize this as a full-body workout for me.
Nonetheless, Pilates proved to be an excellent low-impact option for days when I want to avoid overexertion while focusing on upper body strength. It complements my weight training regimen well, demonstrating how Pilates and resistance exercises can work in harmony to achieve comprehensive fitness goals, though each serves its unique purpose.
