The 30 Best Pilates Workout Videos You Can Find on YouTube Right Now
QQ: How many times are you willing to hear the word “pulse”?
I know "gentle" and "hardcore" aren't really words that go together—and for good reason! But please believe me when I say that, uh, Pilates is kinda the perfect? blend? of both?
You may be a cardio (read: sweat) junkie or a lifter who won't leave the gym until their muscles are shaking. Even so, I think it's time to introduce you to these calm, intense, grounding, and muscle-burning Pilates workouts. It doesn't hurt to switch it up, right?
Before you say "Eh, not really my thing!" lemme just flag that the below workouts are all free, free, free. Thank you, YouTube gods. And assuming you already got your Bachelorette fix in and attempted to box dye your hair once, maybe twice, checking out these YouTube videos probably isn't such a bad idea on an otherwise boring Tuesday night.
Whether you’re new to the exercise and just want something to do, or you’re a total pro who lives and breathes reformers, these Pilates workout videos will actually kick your butt. Don't worry, cute, comfy leggings will help with the pain. :)
So what are the benefits of Pilates, anyway?
There are *a lot*. "Pilates builds core stability, which supports balance, flexibility, and muscle endurance," says lululemon MIRROR Trainer Patricia Sabulis, who's also a Pilates and yoga instructor. You're gonna feel it, specifically because you're developing strength in alll the muscles, including the one surrounding your hips and spine to contribute to healthy movement of those joints. "It can reduce chronic pain and serve as injury prevention," adds Sabulis (or if it's too late for that, keep scrolling for a Pilates workout geared toward foot injuries).
Not to mention, it enhances pelvic floor strength, according to Sabulis, which is honestly good for everyone, but especially beneficial during pregnancy and postpartum when those muscles tend to loosen. And probably the best part of Pilates is that it helps you connect your mind, body, and breath—aka reach that Zen you've been chasing from doing a workout in the first place.
Taylor is one of the sex and relationship editors who can tell you exactly which vibrators are worth the splurge, why you’re still dreaming about your ex, and tips on how to have the best sex of your life (including what word you should spell with your hips during cowgirl sex)—oh, and you can follow her on Instagram here.
Sarah is the associate lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan where she covers food, home, health, career...basically all the things you love to love — follow her on Instagram.
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