Creating a Pilates Movement Ritual for the New Year
As 2025 approaches, it’s natural to start setting goals around health and wellness, often with big ambitions for the new year. Pilates has become a buzzword lately and for good reason. If your goal in 2025 is to start or deepen your Pilates practice, here’s what you need to know to set yourself up for success.
Pilates is all about moving with intention and control, finding awareness and strength within your own body. Before setting a goal around Pilates for the new year, think about your own personal intention for your practice. Thankfully, Pilates offers many benefits, so there’s no shortage of options. You may want to improve your overall mobility, build strength, or dedicate time to mindful movement that enhances your mind-body connection. Your goal also may be more specific- like recovering from an injury or tackling your low back pain, both are which Pilates is a great tool for (Cleveland Clinic 2023). Having a strong reason behind why you’re practicing will help keep you motivated.
Once you’ve established your intention, take some time to think about what kind of movement brings you joy. This will help you determine which style of Pilates suits you best. The more you enjoy the movements, the more likely you are to continue with your practice. Maybe you love adding strength components with props like dumbbells and Bala Bangles, or perhaps you prefer the flow of classical mat Pilates. If the Reformer is your favorite, you might want to focus on studio Reformer classes. It’s perfectly fine to try a variety of styles to discover what feels best for you and fills your cup.
Pilates is a practice rooted in consistency. Try scheduling your classes in advance to hold yourself accountable, treating them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way—whether it’s improved posture at your desk or mastering a teaser for the first time. These milestones are worth acknowledging, and a small reward, like a new pair of grip socks, can make your progress even sweeter.
One of the beautiful things about Pilates is that it’s a movement practice that adapts to every stage of life. Once you start, you might find yourself wanting to share the experience with others. Invite friends or family to join you and having an accountability buddy can keep you both motivated. Don’t hesitate to lean on your Pilates instructors for guidance, whether it is help with modifications, support for injuries, or tips for movements you can practice at home.
Pilates truly is for everyone, and the Pilates community welcomes you with open arms. As 2025 begins, we hope to see you in class and support you on your movement journey.
Sources:
Cleveland Clinic. (2023b, March 10). Pilates 101: What it is and its health benefits. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/everything-you-want-to-know-about-pilates