Beat the Heat with Pilates This Summer

As summer temperatures increase, staying active and cool can be challenging. If you’re looking for creative ways to beat the heat this season, consider Pilates! This versatile and low-impact workout can be adapted to help you stay comfortable during warmer months. You can modify movements and tailor your routine to suit your environment. It’s important to understand that sweating more does not necessarily lead to greater weight loss. Actual weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you consume. While intense workouts that make you sweat can help you burn more calories, simply sweating more—without increasing the intensity of your exercise—won’t produce the same results.

This month, we are providing our favorite tips for practicing Pilates in warmer weather! 

1. Choose the Right Environment: Hot weather can drain your energy, so consider taking your Pilates practice indoors. When temperatures rise, our bodies work harder to keep cool. To stay comfortable while you work out, try practicing Pilates in an air-conditioned studio or in your living room with fans on. If you prefer to work out outside, consider early morning or late evening sessions when the temperatures are cooler. You can also enhance your practice by enjoying an outdoor session during sunrise or sunset. Regardless of the environment you choose, start your practice with gratitude for the ability to select what works best for you!
2. Stay Hydrated: Before, during, and after your Pilates sessions, make sure to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you feeling good throughout your workout. If you’re practicing intensely, consider adding electrolytes to your water. Make it fun by choosing a feel-good, reusable water bottle that benefits both you and the environment. You can also enhance your hydration by adding your favorite fruits for extra nutrients. It's important to give your body time to hydrate in the hours leading up to your Pilates session. Unsure how much water you should drink? The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends an adequate daily fluid intake of about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women.
3. Dress for Success: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to help keep you cool as you sweat. While looking good is important for self-esteem and confidence, it's equally vital to wear clothes that promote movement and flexibility. Remember, the goal is to keep your body cool so it doesn't become fatigued from trying to regulate its temperature. Support your body by selecting the most supportive styles and fabrics.
4. Modify Your Routine: Summer is the perfect time to experiment with your Pilates practice. Focus on exercises that incorporate breathing techniques to keep your body cool, such as the "Mermaid" and "Spine Stretch." These moves are gentle yet effective and help you maintain your flow without overheating. If you're traveling and can't access your Frame Reformer at home, check out our YouTube channel for some of our mat classes. Be creative! Do what you can, wherever you are!
5. Listen to Your Body: Always pay attention to how your body feels. If you experience excessive fatigue or dizziness, take a break. Summer workouts should be enjoyable, so avoid overexerting yourself in the heat. Adjust your routine based on how you feel, and appreciate the beauty of Pilates as you celebrate what your body can do! 

Incorporating these tips into your Pilates routine can help you stay cool while still enjoying all the benefits Pilates offers. Stay active this summer and embrace the refreshing feeling that comes from maintaining a balanced and cool body!