Finding Your Flow – The Benefits of Pilates for Every Lifestyle

As a recent convert to Pilates, I am hooked. It’s the ultimate workout for strength, flexibility, and zen vibes. But with so many types out there—mat-based, reformer, and tower—it can feel a bit overwhelming to choose. Don’t stress! Here’s the lowdown on each so you can pick the one that fits your flow.

Mat-Based Pilates

This is the OG of pilates, and it’s as simple as it sounds—all you need is a mat and your body. The focus is on controlled movements and core strength. Sometimes, classes throw in props like resistance bands or light weights to spice things up.

Why You’ll Love It:

• It’s super accessible—you can do it anywhere! Perfect for travel, home workouts, or sneaking in a quick session during your lunch break.

• It’s amazing for building core strength, which means better posture, balance, and even less back pain.

• Budget-friendly! You don’t need any fancy gear or machines.

• This one’s great for beginners, those on a budget, or anyone who loves a fuss-free workout.

Reformer Pilates

Now we’re leveling up with a reformer machine—picture a sliding carriage with springs and pulleys to add resistance. It’s a full-body workout that blends strength and flexibility.

Why You’ll Love It:

• The resistance really gets your muscles working, giving you a deeper, more intense session.

• It’s super versatile, whether you’re a fitness newbie, rehabbing an injury, or a pilates pro.

• Say hello to improved posture! It’s excellent for alignment and keeping your spine happy.

• If you’re ready to step up your pilates game, reformer is where it’s at.

Tower Pilates

This one’s for the pros (or anyone feeling adventurous). Tower pilates uses a vertical frame with springs, bars, and straps—think of it as a reformer’s cousin with more focus on strength.

Why You’ll Love It:

• It’s super precise, which means you can really target specific muscles.

• You’ll get a mix of strength and flexibility in one workout, which is perfect if you like variety.

• It’s all about control, so it’s a great challenge for seasoned pilates fans.

• Tower is ideal if you’ve already got some pilates experience and want something a bit more advanced.

Whatever style you choose, pilates is amazing for your body and your mind. So, find a class—whether it’s at a studio or online—and start moving. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

Introduction to Tai-Chi

Whilst everyone joins the “new year, new me" hype, I’m over here living my best life with my own twists to common New Year’s resolutions.

The gym is always a big one - January is a classic month for a spike in gym memberships, only for these to lay forgotten at the bottom of your priority list come February. My own desire to hit the gym doesn’t usually kick in until April each year and I like to take it nice and easy before then.

This year, I’ve decided to hit the ground running (so to speak) with a bit of an unusual development.

Welcome to the world of Tai-chi.

Tai-chi is a type of martial art, but unlike what you may be picturing in your head, it is generally considered a “soft” martial art which is focused on the internal self and well-being, as opposed to hammering Bruce Lee’s best moves and breaking as many boards as possible.

Getting started is very simple, You just need yourself, a flat space to practice in a quiet environment, and ideally, one hour of time. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that you feel relaxed in and which will move easily as you practice your movements. That’s it.

The physical side of tai-chi is deceptively simple. All you need is everything I mentioned above and you’re good to go. But to really feel the full benefit of tai-chi, you need to take some time to focus on your internal self.

Your attunement to nature, or rather, gaining a stronger attunement to not only the nature around you, but also within you, is at the heart of tai-chi. The spiritual tradition of Taoism which is where tai-chi finds its roots.

Some medical studies suggest tai chi can help to improve a host of medical conditions including, but not limited to: muscular pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, cardiovascular problems, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Diabetes and ADHD. If you’re experiencing any aches and pains, it could well be worth giving tai-chi a try.

Personally, I decided to start tai-chi as a solo practice at home, using online guides to help me along the way. You could also have a look around for classes in your local area if you would prefer someone to teach you, but if not, there’s a helpful beginner’s tutorial here.