After more than half a year into the lockdown life, you’re probably feeling weary from stress and helplessness. You could also be neglecting your physical health due to your tired and confused mental state. One way of regaining control over your health is to take up Pilates, which will strengthen not only your body but also your mind through light to moderate core and breathing exercises.
Pilates was first developed in the early 20th century and it was considered to be ahead of its time. Its founder, Joseph Pilates, championed the wonders that this form of exercise did for the mind and body throughout his life. He described pilates as an “exercise system designed to strengthen the weak and challenge the strong.” In recent years, developments in sports and exercise science have been validating the techniques and benefits of pilates, which is why the pilates fitness scene continues to grow today.
More than just exercise, Pilates is a lifestyle
Where traditional gym training ends, Pilates extends to breathwork and well-being. When you integrate pilates exercises into your daily routine, you may experience the following health benefits:
- Improved core stability and strength
- Better posture and alignment
- More flexibility and freedom of movement
- Reduced back pain
- Improved balance and coordination
- Strengthened immune system
- Better blood circulation
- Injury prevention
Regular pilates also has long-lasting effects on your mood. If you’ve been feeling down this quarantine, you will benefit from:
- Improved focus from proper breathing
- Lowered anxiety from endorphin release
- Uplifted mood
- Better response to stress
Because of this, Pilates is often referred to as “intelligent exercise” because it simultaneously works on your physical and mental strength.
Where to take pilates in the Philippines
Leading the pilates movement in the country is Options Studio Inc., an international pilates studio chain from Singapore. Options Studio has steadily grown its following in Asia and now has branches in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Koh Samui, and the Philippines.
Ole Eugenio, a Pilates Master Trainer and former gymnast, brought Options Studio to the Philippines a decade ago. Their first branch was in the RCBC Plaza in Makati, which relocated to the Nobel Plaza in Valero Street, Makati, and has since expanded to other prime locations such as BGC, Alabang, Rockwell, and Timog in Quezon City. They also have a partner facility in Cebu, across Ayala Mall.
The newest Options Studio will soon open in EDSA Shangri-la and this studio will also specialize in muscle rehab on top of regular pilates programs. This branch will be the only pilates studio with complete Gratz Classical Pilates equipment, the gold standard in pilates equipment since 1928. The Options Studio Pilates Rehab and More branch will be the first studio in the Philippines to carry the complete set including the auxiliary apparatus of this top-of-the-line workout equipment.
On top of having the best fitness and rehab equipment, the core of Options Studio’s strength lies in Ole Eugenio’s innovative, technical, and effective training modules. All of their studio trainers and movement specialists undergo constant training led by the Pilates Master himself along with other renowned Pilates Mentors such as Camille Joson-Ordinario and Neil Alvarez.
Marivic del Pilar, the owner of the soon-to-open Options Studio in EDSA Shangri-la, swears by the benefits of pilates that she made it a point to open her own studio. Together with Alain Buenaventura, one of the most sought-after pilates instructors in the country, they seek to elevate the pilates experience in the country.
Who should take Pilates?
The beauty of Pilates is that everyone can do it and can benefit from it. Pilates can even have life-changing effects for the following:
- Prenatal to postnatal women
- Athletes and sports enthusiasts
- Individuals with medical conditions
- Individuals recovering from injuries
The pilates programs at Options Studio can be customized according to your fitness goals, which is why special programs can be created even for kids and the elderly. As Joseph Pilates, the founder of pilates, once said: “You are as young as your spinal column.” With pilates, you can strengthen your spine, improve your core, and be renewed with youthful energy. If you want to get back on track and be healthier and happier despite the troubling times, Pilates could be the answer. Visit www.optionsstudioph.com to see the different programs and packages or get in touch with our receptionist at 0917 813 0296. Or simply visit the Options Studio nearest you!
