Outdoor Pilates

Outdoor Pilates involves exercises performed while power walking and standing. So-called “standing Pilates” complements and extends Pilates as a practical form of fitness training following the same Pilates principles: perception, balance, breathing, centering, control, concentration, flow, efficiency, harmony, and precision. Practicing correct posture while standing upright – in other words, balance – is highly applicable in everyday life.

Classical Pilates training as we know it is generally carried out while lying on the back or stomach, as the muscles can best be strengthened when they work against gravity. We have a better sense of perception and control over correct positioning when in contact with the floor. At the same time, many everyday activities are performed while standing or walking. For this reason, it is important that participants understand how they can integrate what they have learned in their daily life.

Outdoor Pilates focuses on both of the above-mentioned points: first, correct posture while upright, which additionally promotes good balance, and second, classical training on the mat, which is an efficient way to build up core supporting muscles – the deep musculature structure. Additionally, aerobic and anaerobic training meld together beautifully in outdoor Pilates.

The aerobic part of the training serves to burn fats, promote weight loss, and increase endurance. Anaerobic exercise increases performance and builds muscles. These two processes of energy generation should be seen as complementary rather than in opposition. Both forms generally occur together in practical application while doing sports. Depending on the intensity of the exercise, the body switches back and forth between aerobic and anaerobic phases. That is precisely what we aim for in outdoor Pilates.