10-Minute, Equipment-Free Pilates Session Effectively Targeted My Abdominal Muscles
For many fitness enthusiasts, high-intensity exercise is the norm. But what happens when you challenge that notion and try something different? That's exactly what one individual did when they decided to give a 10 minute mail session a try.
Developed by certified Pilates teacher, Jessica Valant, in 2018, this equipment-free session offers a unique blend of standing poses, floor-based moves, stretches, core-focused exercises, and breathing exercises, all within a concise 10 minute timeframe.
The author, who had been engrossed in high-intensity resistance training (HIRT), approached this 10 minute mail session with a certain level of scepticism. After all, wasn't exercise supposed to be intense to be effective?
However, the author found themselves at home, ready to embark on this short yet promising journey. With a yoga mat beneath their feet for added comfort, they followed the guidance of Jessica Valant, who expertly led them through the session.
Initially, the author was surprised to find the session more effective than they had anticipated. The 10 minute mail session, despite its brevity, was comprehensive, offering a well-rounded workout that focused on the midsection with twists, alternating leg raises, and bicycle crunches.
What made this session particularly noteworthy was its emphasis on slow and focused movement. This approach, the author realised, was not only beneficial for improving form but also for reducing stress. It served as a gentle reminder that exercise doesn't always have to be intense to be impactful.
In the days following the session, the author experienced delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) around the abs, a testament to the session's effectiveness. It's worth noting that this session, like any exercise, should be approached with caution. It's recommended to watch the video and copy Valant's form to get the most from the session and avoid injury.
Pilates, it seems, offers more than just a quick workout. It can help boost circulation and raise blood pressure by developing the core, making it a valuable addition to any fitness routine. Even those who, like the author, may have previously favoured core strengthening exercises over Pilates might find themselves reconsidering their choices.
For the author, this 10 minute mail session was a refreshing change from their usual routine. It served as a reminder that exercise can be slow, focused, and effective, offering value beyond just physical benefits. And who knows? Perhaps this could be the start of a new fitness journey for many.
