I was an avid Pilates-goer for five years straight.
Part of me just didn’t want to start the journey to learn something new.
I also had the commonfear that I’d grow muscles bigger than I wanted.
However, I decided to take the leap and experiment with weight training six months ago.
Here’s an account of my transition, results, and tips I wish I had known earlier.
Why swap weight training for Pilates?
The workouts started to bore me, which made me less motivated to engage in exercise at all.
In addition, I wasn’t feeling much stronger or noticing increased muscle definition.
Simply being able to keep up with daily activities and balance are worthwhile reasons to lift weights.
In fact, a2022 study1found that strength training can help prevent sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss.
And the longevity benefits don’t stop there.
All this expert guidance had me sold on a new routine.
They also checked my form on basic workouts like squats and bicep curls.
But still, it’s all about what works best for you.
After my intro session, I made a few buddy-system visits to the gym.
Here’s what that entails.
Per expert recommendations, I kept most exercises to three sets of 10 repetitions.
Once I could do the exercise with ease, I’d bump up the weight.
Ialwaysbegin and end my workout routine with stretching.
I’ve skipped it once or twice, and I could definitely feel it the next day.
But for me, these simple workouts have been the most effective and the most enjoyable.
Everyone’s ideal workout routine will look different, and this is just what works for me.
The top benefits of my new routine
Now to the fun part: my results.
However, that time was packed with other benefits that were even better.
No, of course not.
The experience taught me how much independence I’ve gained since starting my new gym routine.
I find myself approaching new machines and new movements with curiosity, not insecurity.
