Increased Energy with Pilates

Movement improves one’s mental state and happiness. New research suggests that regular exercise may also help increase energy levels and beat back fatigue. According to a University of Georgia exercise psychology laboratory, regular exercise may pay off with increased energy. Previous studies suggest that even small amounts of activities will help chronic back pain sufferers. The study demonstrated that exercise as little as 20 minutes or low to modern aerobics three days a week for six weeks can greatly improve fatigue.

In a Psychological Bulletin study that looks at 70 different studies on exercise and fatigue, more than 90% reported that normally sedentary people who began a regular exercise program reported improved fatigue compared to those that did not exercise at all. Improvements were seen in diabetes, back pain, heart disease and cancer.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults engage in at least 2 ½ hours of weekly moderate exercise including gardening or walking. Pilates is a form of no-impact exercise that is gentle and works out the entire body. It uses strengthening and stretching exercises with précised motions that tone the body.

Many experts including the National Fibromyalgia Association recommend Pilates workouts to those suffering from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. While the cause of the disease is unknown, it is associated with muscle aches, pains, stiffness and general fatigue. Gentle stretching of the muscle with contractions (MET) showed a decrease of pain by 50% in 60% of patients. MET is a technique used in Pilates. Other studies show an improvement in posture after Pilates workouts too.

Ultimately there are many reasons why Pilates benefits a Fibromyalgia patient. This low impact conditioning focuses on the core and stability through breathing. When breathing, the blood is oxygenated and circulation is increased throughout the body. This helps to relax muscles and rid the body of any tension. Start a Pilates workout early in the day as the onset of fatigue in the body can be pushed back. Feel less tense all day long with an early morning Pilates workout.