image: canstockphoto
The benefits of Pilates are well-documented: a stronger and more stable core, improved flexibility, and reduced back pain to name a few. But here’s a secret we Pilates instructors don’t usually share in our classes: practicing Pilates can improve your sex life.
Curious? Read on…
4 Ways Pilates Can Improve Your Sex Life
1. Stronger Pelvic Muscles
image: canstockphoto
Pilates focuses on activating the entire cylinder of core muscles as a unit. Those muscles include the Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFMs). Picture these muscles as a sling or hammock connecting the front, back and sides of your pelvis from underneath. In Pilates, we use our PFMs in conjunction with the other core muscles to help stabilize the core.
But off the Pilates mat, these muscles play an important role in sexual functions. The PFMs are the muscles that contract during orgasm — so the stronger they are, the stronger the contractions. As if we needed another reason to do Pilates!
Developing this stamina means you can explore creative positions in bed without tiring
To activate your pelvic floor, sit cross legged with your spine in a neutral position. Imagine your pelvic bones (the ones you’re sitting on) as a clock, with 12 at the front and 6 at the back. Pull together the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock points, like four corners of a square scarf, and draw them together and inward like a drawstring. This is also known as a Kegel exercise.
A male friend suggested this cue for guys: Imagine walking into ice-cold water up to your hips.
2. Improved Stamina
Control is a fundamental principle of Pilates. In fact, Joseph Pilates originally named his system “Contrology”. It’s not about how fast or hard you do it, it’s about how well and how precisely you use your body. Sound familiar?
Many Pilates exercises require muscular endurance — for example, The Hundreds, which require you to stay in an Upper Abdominal Curl for 100 breaths. Developing this stamina means you can explore creative positions in bed without tiring too quickly.
3. Awareness of the Present
Doing Pilates exercises requires all your concentration. You can’t really think about anything else while doing it. Practicing regularly may help you develop your ability to focus, allowing you to put aside your mental “To-Do” list or anything else that’s on your mind. Not only can this help you relax, but it could also deepen the bond between you and your partner.
4. Healthy Body Image
Almost everyone can do some form of Pilates. Regardless of your size, gender, weight or age, it will help you learn how to move your body with grace and fluidity.
Feeling taller, stronger and leaner will make you feel beautiful and confident. And there’s no aphrodisiac more powerful than that.
I’m convinced 😉
Great article, Christie!