BODYBALANCE is a motivating blend of Tai Chi, Pilates and Yoga that will help improve your mind, your body and your life.
Check out our Holistic Workouts episode of The Everyone Active Podcast:
What is BODYBALANCE?
BODYBALANCE™ comprises scientifically-developed combination of some Tai Chi and Pilates elements, combined with Yoga moves. All set to calming music, it’s easy to forget that throughout the session, you’re setting both your body and your mind a series of challenges that have been specifically developed to make you both more flexible and stronger, too.
Is it Good for Burning Calories?
Although you’ll burn more calories during a BODYBALANCE session than if you’re at home watching TV, it’s not the main focus of the discipline. Instead, the classes concentrate on improving joint mobility, core strength, making you feel calmer and improving your sense of well-being. With that in mind, instead of worrying about burning calories, embrace the fact that you’ll feel more flexible, stronger and less stressed as a result of attending these classes.
What Exercises do you do During BODYBALANCE?
The classes start with breathing exercises that are inspired by Tai Chi, followed by warrior sequences, hip openers, invigorating sun salutations, twists, and some Pilates-inspired core training. To finish up, you’ll enjoy some relaxation exercises.
Does BODYBALANCE Really get Results?
BODYBALANCE is great for building both physical and mental strength. Roehampton University published a study that showed that, as well as all the well-being benefits, if you take part in BODYBALANCE classes, you’re much more likely to reduce your body fat percentage, improve flexibility, ease certain mental health issues and increase your back strength the class can help reduce body fat, increase back strength, improve flexibility and ease anxiety. Additionally, these classes have also been shown to be capable of driving significant improvements in both gait speed and your balance, a great indicator of increased vitality.
How Experienced do you Need to be?
You don’t need any experience at all to enjoy the benefits BODYBALANCE can bring you. Follow your instructor and they will show you all of the appropriate options – don’t worry about what others are doing, just do what feels good for you. When you’re just starting out it’s a good idea to just do the first three or four tracks. And commit to a few sessions from the start, as it can take a few classes to feel comfortable with all of the moves.
How Often Should you do BODYBALANCE?
Just one class a week is all it will take for you to start enjoying the benefits of the classes. If you’re able to make time for three classes a week you’ll see the physical and mental benefits really shine.
What do you Need for a BODYBALANCE Workout?
You can use a Yoga mat if you fancy, but you don’t need one. You also don’t need any shoes. Simply wear comfortable workout clothes, and ideally have something warm to put on during the final relaxation track.
Can you do BODYBALANCE While Pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, regular BODYBALANCE sessions can be great for helping maintain core control and muscle balance. But before you begin we recommend talking with your doctor or midwife who will advise you appropriately, as they have the best knowledge of your medical history. It’s also important to let your Instructor know you’re pregnant so they can suggest some modifications for you throughout the class.
This piece originally appeared on lesmills.com.