Pilates Beginners Why Pilates Is a Good Workout for Men By Marguerite Ogle MS, RYT Marguerite Ogle MS, RYT LinkedIn Marguerite Ogle is a freelance writer and experienced natural wellness and life coach, who has been teaching Pilates for more than 35 years. Learn about our editorial process Updated on March 10, 2020 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Kristin McGee, CPT Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Kristin McGee is a certified personal trainer and currently teaches yoga and meditation for Peloton. She is also certified in Pilates by the National Association of Sports Medicine. Learn about our Review Board Print Caroline Schiff/Getty Images Pilates is one of the fastest-growing fitness trends in the world and has served as a training modality for both male and female athletes alike. Created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, male instructors and proponents have always been part of the female-dominant Pilates scene. Because the Pilates method has been so widely touted by women in recent years, men often have the impression that Pilates is not an appropriate form of exercise for them. But men can benefit from Pilates just as much as women can. Why Pilates Works Well for Men Pilates has many physical benefits, from core strength to flexibility and balance to uniform development and efficient movement patterns. These benefits are hallmarks of the Pilates method and are also highly relevant to men's fitness. The integrative component of Pilates can be especially beneficial. It's common for men to emphasize a part-by-part approach to muscular development, such as occurs in weightlifting. But Pilates emphasizes moving from the center of the body, the powerhouse, and developing core strength in the deep muscles of the center to stabilize the trunk and protect the back. This technique provides a strong foundation for strength and resistance training. The emphasis on core strength makes Pilates an excellent technique for whole-body fitness, as well as a foundation for cross-training with other kinds of sports and exercise. Increasing flexibility is a goal that Pilates addresses in a way that men can feel comfortable with. Pilates works toward functional fitness—that is, the ability to have the strength, balance, and flexibility that allows you to move through daily-life tasks with grace and ease. Similar to yoga, Pilates exercises increase flexibility and improve range of motion, minus the pretzel poses. Yoga and Pilates: Differences and Similarities Tips for Men Who Are New to Pilates The best way to learn Pilates is by taking classes. You might find that women outnumber men by quite a bit, but don't let that deter you. When starting Pilates, keep in mind that: Pilates is a mind-body practice. A big part of the exercise is about bringing your full attention to every movement. Precise alignment and core training that goes beyond the superficial muscles requires subtle attention and micro-adjustments to get the most out of the workout. The Pilates method is the same for all. The method is founded on healthy movement principles for the human body in general. Men might find that their muscles tend to be a little tighter, especially in the hips and hamstrings, but modifications allow the Pilates method to meet the needs of a variety of practitioners. There's no need to "power through." When you work with Pilates equipment, which is resistance equipment, it is not intended to be overpowered. In fact, sometimes the lightest setting on a piece of equipment, such as the reformer, can be the most challenging for the core. Pilates Resources for Men "Stott Pilates: Pilates for Men" (DVD) "Pilates for Men, Fit for Sport, Fit for Life" by Alan Herdman and Gill Paul "The Complete Book of Pilates for Men" by Daniel Lyon By Marguerite Ogle MS, RYT Marguerite Ogle is a freelance writer and experienced natural wellness and life coach, who has been teaching Pilates for more than 35 years. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit