How to Unlock Your Inner Child Through Play

July is here and that means it is time to have some fun. Every July we break out of our routines, let go, and focus on play. This year we have a special guest to join us and guide us as we play.  Kara Latta is the Chief Fun Officer at The Playful Warrior and …

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If you’ve been playing the Pilates vs. weight training game (Which one is better? Which one should I choose?)—I have good news: you don’t have to choose. Even better, when you combine Mat Pilates (Pilates without a reformer, which is what we do at Lindywell) with weight training, you reap the benefits of both. 

When you look closely, it’s easy to see how the two are very similar: both target the musculoskeletal system to develop strong, resilient muscles, joints, tissues, and bones. In addition, both forms of exercise can be classified as resistance training: 

• Weight workouts utilize weights for added resistance
• Pilates mat workouts primarily utilize body weight for resistance

This means that combining the two can provide a well-rounded workout routine that not only builds strength but also improves mobility, reduces stress, and increases mindfulness.

I’m often asked, “Which is better?” and I’m here to tell you that they both have benefits. 

What I’ve seen, however, is that not all weight training programs are created equal. It’s imperative to bring what we know about Pilates in terms of proper movement mechanics into our weights workouts to reduce the risk of injury and actually benefit from the workouts.

Let’s ditch the Pilates vs. weight training mindset. Here’s what you need to know to get started with both!