Why Pilates is the Ultimate Workout for Dee Why Locals

Looking for a fitness routine that fits seamlessly into your busy life while delivering results? Pilates is fast becoming one of the most popular exercise choices for people in Dee Why, and it’s easy to see why. At Ambition Studios, we’ve witnessed first-hand how Pilates can transform not just bodies but lives.

Here’s why Pilates should be your next fitness obsession:

1. Full-Body Workout in Less Time

Pilates is a highly efficient workout that targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Whether you want to tone your core, improve flexibility, or enhance overall strength, a single Pilates session can deliver it all.

For Dee Why locals juggling work, family, and beachside living, the ability to get a comprehensive workout in under an hour is a major win.

2. Low-Impact, High-Reward

Unlike high-impact workouts that can strain joints, Pilates is gentle on your body while still delivering incredible results. This makes it perfect for all fitness levels, whether you’re recovering from an injury, starting out, or looking to push your limits.

At Ambition Studios, we tailor our sessions to suit individual needs, ensuring you get the most out of every class.

3. Support for Posture and Back Pain

If you’re spending long hours at a desk or commuting, you’ve probably felt the toll it takes on your posture. Pilates focuses on strengthening your core and improving alignment, which can alleviate back pain and help prevent future issues.

Our Dee Why clients often tell us they feel taller, stronger, and more comfortable after just a few sessions.

4. A Chance to De-Stress and Re-Energise

Life can be hectic, but Pilates provides a much-needed escape. With a focus on controlled movements and mindful breathing, Pilates sessions help you feel grounded and re-energised.

After a class at Ambition Studios, you’ll leave not only physically stronger but mentally refreshed—ready to take on whatever the day throws at you.

5. Convenient Location for the Dee Why Community

Located in the heart of Dee Why, Ambition Studios is perfectly situated for locals looking for a welcoming space to prioritise their health. Whether you’re coming from work, home, or a beach stroll, our studio is easy to access and designed to make you feel right at home.

Why Choose Ambition Studios?

At Ambition Studios, we’re not just about Pilates—we’re about community. Our expert instructors bring years of experience and a genuine passion for helping you achieve your goals.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Pilates enthusiast, our personalised approach ensures every session is tailored to your needs.

Ready to Start Your Pilates Journey?

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of Pilates, we’d love to welcome you to Ambition Studios in Dee Why. As a special offer, new clients can enjoy a trial pass to explore our classes and see how Pilates can work for you.

Book your first session , https://www.ambitionstudios.com.au , and take the first step towards a stronger, healthier, and more balanced life.

Ambition Studios is proud to be a part of the Dee Why community, helping locals prioritise their health and well-being.

Do you find it challenging to engage your muscles effectively?

Perhaps it's time for a form reassessment.

Your form and technique are foundational in achieving mastery in each position, facilitating efficient and effective movement, and ushering in transformation within your body. To begin, let's delve into the five fundamental positions designed to optimize muscle recruitment and refine your overall technique. These fundamental stances can be applied to a variety of movements and exercise sequences. Once you've mastered them, you'll experience deep muscle engagement, increased strength and tone, and the fulfillment of your long-term fitness goals.

Exercise 1: Maintaining a Neutral Spine

A neutral spine represents the optimal alignment for your pelvis and spine, the way our bodies are naturally designed to support themselves. Achieving this posture allows the surrounding stabilizing muscles to engage and activate correctly.

The beauty of a neutral spine is that it can be maintained in various movement planes, whether you're lying on your back, front, or side, or even standing. It's essential to keep in mind the importance of preserving a neutral spine during every movement.

With a neutral spine, your lower abdominal muscles, hamstrings, and glutes will function and strengthen more efficiently.

Exercise 2: Perfecting the Pelvic Curl

The primary purpose of the pelvic curl is to promote mobility in the lower spine. Modern lifestyles, characterized by sedentary jobs and extended commutes, often lead to tightness in the hip flexors and lower lumbar region. This tightness can impede movement and compromise spinal health.

To master the pelvic curl, start with knees bent and feet hip-width apart on the mat, while your arms extend alongside your body. Inhale deeply as you gently tilt your pubic bone toward your spine and roll up into the bridge position, ensuring a continuous connection between your bottom ribs and hips. As you roll back down to the mat, visualize each vertebra of your spine settling onto the mat one by one, with your tailbone being the final point of contact.

Executing the pelvic curl in this controlled manner facilitates effective lower spine mobilization, enhances torso stabilization, and sets the stage for a successful workout each time.

Exercise 3 : Mastering the chest lift

The chest lift can be a somewhat misinterpreted exercise. If you were to instruct someone to perform a chest lift, their immediate reaction might be to fold their body in half, attempting to touch their forehead to their knees.

To achieve a successful chest lift, it's essential to uphold a neutral spine position and concentrate on smoothly sliding your ribs toward your hips as you lift your shoulders off the mat.

Begin this exercise in the same position as you would for a pelvic curl. Position your hands behind your head with your thumbs running down the back of your neck – this technique creates a kind of supportive hammock for your head as you move. While lifting, your head should feel substantial in your hands, ensuring that you rise as you simultaneously slide your ribs toward your hips, all while maintaining a neutral position.

Having your head feel somewhat weighty in your hands is instrumental in engaging your abdominal muscles correctly, thus preventing your neck muscles from assuming the lifting responsibility. To safeguard your neck, maintain your line of sight directed towards your knees during the entire exercise.

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Breaking the Myths: Debunking 4 Common Misconceptions About Reformer Pilates

In the ever-evolving world of fitness, misinformation seems to be everywhere.  Misinformation can deter us from exploring new avenues that could genuinely revolutionise our well-being. 

Imagine being **obsessed** and eager to get to your next gym class. So much so that you’re 10 minutes early and doing every exercise and rep to its fullest. Instead of dragging your heels, rest before the last rep is done and simply box-ticking with your workouts! 

Plus it's a substantial workout that’ll leave you feeling strong!  

Yes – It's POSSIBLE. 

Reformer Pilates is a dynamic and holistic workout regimen. Unfortunately, it has been touched by several misconceptions. If you dig past the misconceptions, you’ll uncover the brilliance behind this transformative practice. 

It’s time to debunk some myths that’ve been holding you back from breathing new life back into your workouts.

Ambition Reformer Pilates Studio is a small specialized gym located in Dee Why on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Unlike larger studios with 20+ reformer beds, Ambition Studios has 7 beds. A small number of beds means instructors can offer tailored assistance throughout each class. With larger studios, it’s impossible for the instructors to keep an eye on and correct your form. 

Stay till the end to see how you can attend your first reformer pilates class at Ambition Studios. 

Let’s dive in and debunk these four myths about reformer pilates!

Myth #1:  Reformer Is Only for the Fit and Flexible

Let’s dispel this stubborn myth straightaway. 

Reformer Pilates is an all-encompassing practice, tailored to individuals of varied fitness levels. 

The root of this myth can be traced back to the false notion that Pilates exclusively caters to experienced Pilates students, athletes or dancers. Also, reformer Pilates is a more advanced version of mat Pilates. 

We’re here to tell you that neither of these are true.  

It’s easy to see where this has come from. For instance, it’s common to see images and videos of reformer pilates classes depicting students holding advanced poses. Poses that often look like you need a high level of flexibility or core strength. Certainly, a quick way to turn newcomers off.  

In reality, Reformer Pilates is a welcoming space that nurtures individuals, enabling you to advance at your own pace. You don’t need to be highly flexible, fit, a dancer or have done mat pilates to do reformer Pilates. You do reformer pilates to improve your flexibility and core strength. 

If you are brand new to all types of fitness all you need to do is tell the instructor before your class, and they’ll keep an eye on you for assistance.

Myth #2:  Reformer Pilates Is Not a Real Workout

Just **Wow.** 

On one side of the coin, you have some who think Reformer is difficult. Then on the other side, some believe it's too easy. Whoever believes this mix-up certainly hasn't tried a reformer pilates class at Ambition Studios. 

This needs immediate debunking. 

The misunderstanding likely arises from the false notion that an exercise session must induce sweat and physical strain to be productive. On top of that, the reformer machine makes it too easy. 

Both of these are untrue.  

Sweat has more to do with an individual's biology than the quality of exercise and calories burned. The amount of sweat doesn’t equate to how effective your workout is. 

The reality is that Reformer Pilates is grounded in deliberate movements. It targets your muscle engagement. This results in a harmonious and effective workout that’s gentle on your joints.

Myth #3: Reformer Pilates Is Just for Women

Reformer Pilates is often wrongly stereotyped as a workout exclusively tailored for women. The belief that it's a practice reserved solely for women is a narrow view that deserves debunking.

While it's true that Pilates can help women improve posture and flexibility, it's equally beneficial for men. Through Reformer Pilates sessions men can experience: 

• Improved muscle tone 

• Better athletic performance

• Injury prevention

Think of Reformer Pilates as a balanced approach to fitness, much like a well-rounded diet. Just as a balanced diet ensures optimal health, Reformer Pilates ensures a balanced body. Men can benefit immensely from regular practice. It focuses on core strength, stability, and flexibility. All of which are critical for overall health and fitness.

For many of our male Ambition clients, we liken reformer to the game of golf. Just as golfers strive to master a set series of moves on each hole of their favourite course. Pilates students work through a prescribed set of exercises on the Reformer bed.

It focuses on enhancing the subtle improvements, the journey towards par or better. It strengthens core muscles, enhances flexibility, and boosts overall body control. All benefits that any person, regardless of gender, can appreciate. 

So, let go of the misinterpretation that Reformer Pilates is just for women. Discover how this practice can help you refine your physical mastery, just like a golfer perfecting their swing.

Myth #4: Reformer Pilates Is Similar to Yoga

This is a tricky one as they do share some similarities but they are certainly not the same and share many key differences. 

Both practices emphasize flexibility, mindfulness, and body awareness. But their approaches and objectives diverge. 

Yoga focuses on static poses, stretching, and meditation, often leading to increased flexibility. However, this hyper-flexibility can be counterproductive without balanced strength training. 

**Enter Reformer Pilates.**

Reformer is a dynamic practice that marries flexibility with strength, engaging core muscles and building lean muscle mass. Combining Yoga and Reformer disciplines can create a harmonious synergy.  Preventing over-flexibility and promoting a balanced, resilient body. 

Instead of viewing them as interchangeable, consider the idea that Reformer Pilates and yoga can complement each other perfectly. They offer a well-rounded path to health and fitness. 

Let’s Embracing the Authenticity of Reformer Pilates

Unfortunately, Reformer Pilates has been plagued by several misconceptions, which we've dismantled one by one. From dispelling the myth that it's only for people who are already fit and flexible. We've brought clarity to this transformative practice by proving it’s a real and effective workout. 

The potential of Reformer Pilates invites you to try it and see for yourself. Whether you're stepping onto the fitness path for the first time or you're a seasoned enthusiast. This is a means to fortify your body strength and deepen your connection with yourself.  

As you consider your fitness journey, remember that breaking free from these myths can open the door to a stronger, more balanced, and resilient you. 

Discover Reformer Pilates and the transformative power it holds for your overall well-being.

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The Benefits of Reformer Pilates: Why It's Worth Trying

Are you tired of uninspiring workouts that leave you feeling disconnected from your own fitness journey?

Imagine a space where you're not just a number, but an integral part of a community that cares about your progress. With seasoned qualified Pilates instructors that are in tune with you and your body. 

Hello Brunna and Kelly here, owners and pilates Instructors at Ambition Studios. We’ve been studying health and fitness and teaching Pilates for over 20 years. We work with clients every day to achieve their health and fitness goals.

The world of Reformer Pilates is a workout that goes beyond the physical, improving both body and mind. It's a low-impact, high-intensity workout that calls for you to be in the moment to practice effectively. Those that have tried it know well that it's time carved out of your day to focus on YOU. 

We’ll explain the mind-body connection that Reformer offers further on.     

People of all ages and fitness backgrounds can enjoy the benefits of Reformers Pilates. Women and men particularly those aged between 50-75 are noticing the positive differences regular Reformer classes make to their bodies. It allows them to move more freely and be more mobile than they have been in years. 

Aging doesn’t need to mean less mobility! 

At Ambition Studios, we offer a small boutique welcoming space with the latest equipment, where you're not just another face in the crowd. Unlike fitness giants that often prioritise quantity over quality. Our focus is on providing a comfortable environment that fosters personalised transformation. 

We’ll get to know you and how your body moves – Its nuances. 

Stay till the end to realise how you can become a part of a Reformer Pilates studio that gives a tailored perspective. To ensure you are developing and improving in each session. 

By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll have a thorough understanding of, 

• What Reformer Pilates is. 

• The physical and mental benefits it brings.  

• How it provides aligned posture and an energised focus mindset. 

Understanding Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates might sound like a foreign concept to beginners. But it's a hidden secret that's gaining traction for all the right reasons. 

Originally developed in the 1900s by Joe Pilates, it's a modality that focuses on core strength, poor posture and flexibility. Not to mention it increases muscle and pelvic floor strength. 

At its centre, Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise that utilises a specially designed machine to enhance your workout experience. The Reformer machine might seem intimidating, but don't let its appearance fool you – it's a **versatile** tool that can be adjusted to accommodate various fitness levels. It includes a system of pulleys, springs, straps, cables and bars, which are integrated with a  moving carriage. The carriage also has a headrest and shoulder blocks. Perfect for alignment and posture. 

What’s great about Reformer Pilates is that you’re functionally working your muscle. This means you work your muscles both eccentrically and concentrically. 

Eccentrically means the muscle is activated and lengthened. Like in a bicep curl when you lower the weight back toward your waistline. Whereas concentrical movements occur when your muscle fibres shorten. Again like in a bicep curl but when you curl your arm back up toward your shoulder. 

Ok but what’s the difference between Reformer and other types of Pilates? 

Let’s put it into context. 

How Reformer Pilates Differs From Traditional Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is the foundation of the Pilates system. It entails a sequence of 34 exercises performed in a specific order on the mat. During a typical mat class, you’ll work on your legs, stomach and upper back. Body weight and gravity will provide the resistance that’ll make the workout a challenge. 

A primary difference between mat and Reformer Pilates is that working against resistance is an essential element in Reformer Pilates. It’s not just working against body weight and gravity like mat pilates. 

The Reformer machine lets you regulate the amount of resistance used in the workout. You do this by adjusting the straps, springs and cables. This means that each exercise can be modified to suit each person’s current capabilities. This can be done in mat pilates with the use of equipment but is limited. 

In my experience, I’ve found that beginners can often perform certain exercises that otherwise they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to do without the Reformer machine. Also, more advanced students can increase the intensity of their practice by adding or decreasing the resistance.  

Reformer Pilates has remarkable physical benefits! 

The Physical Benefits of Reformer Pilates

Say **goodbye** to those days of dreading your workout. Reformer Pilates keeps you engaged and excited about your fitness journey.

Through a series of controlled, precise movements, this workout targets your core, enhances flexibility, and builds lean muscles. Unlike traditional exercises that often leave you feeling drained, Reformer Pilates leaves you invigorated and energized. 

As you progress, you'll notice,

• Improved posture and alignment. 

• Reduced tension in your muscles. 

• Increased joint mobility. 

You’ll often, if not during most sessions, complete exercises laying flat on your back on the spring-loaded carriage. This helps calms the nervous system because it's not the typical posture you do when you exercise. Your brain relaxes and your body becomes curious. 

The spring resistance still allows you to receive the same benefits you’d get from similar standing exercises. You’re still VERY much working your abdominals, glutes and the muscles that help you stay straight. 

How Reformer Pilates Forges Your Mind-Body Connection

At Ambition Studios, we believe that a holistic approach to wellness encompasses both physical and mental well-being. Reformer Pilates isn't just about toning your muscles; it's a practice that encourages mindfulness and self-awareness. 

It can be and is often referred to as physical therapy. 

For GOOD reason too. 

To really drop in and feel the benefits you need to quiet your mind and focused on the controlled movements. Each exercise requires concentration and precise execution, allowing you to tune out the noise of daily life and be present in the moment. 

The 6 principles of Pilates are what give Reformer its undoubtedly triple threat status– physical therapy, mindfulness and muscle-building practice. The pilates method moves with a combination of centring, control, precision, flow, concentration and breath.  

What other exercise do you know packs this combo?

Maybe yoga but the sophistication of the Reformer machine certainly gives it an edge. 

As you flow through each movement, you'll discover an enhanced mind-body connection that not only benefits your workouts but permeates every aspect of your life.

Can Reformer Pilates Improve Posture and Alignment?

In a world dominated by screens and sedentary lifestyles, poor posture has become a ubiquitous issue. Reformer Pilates comes to the rescue with its focus on strengthening your core and aligning your spine. 

There are a lot of reasons why Reformer Pilates is a fantastic practice for improving posture and alignment. Too many to go over today. We’ll focus on some of the obvious ones for now. 

When you are laying down on the carriage the shoulder block and headrest work to help you align yourself correctly. You press your shoulders against the blocks to gauge if you a positioned evenly on both sides. 

A major perk to having a smaller studio is that the instructor can keep a constant eye on each student. They can easily keep instructing and correct people’s alignment to ensure they’re doing the exercise properly. With larger studios, it can be near impossible for instructors to do this.  

Many of the exercises you’ll work through in each class have been tailored to mitigate posture and alignment issues like forward shoulders, flared ribs and a forward head. For instance when you are engaging in exercises using the straps. 

As you engage in each exercise, you'll find yourself becoming more mindful of your body's alignment. Over time, this mindfulness transcends the studio, leading to improved posture in your everyday activities. Stand taller, walk confidently, and say goodbye to discomfort caused by slouching. 

Reformer Pilates empowers you to embrace a more aligned and balanced life.

Your Reformer Pilates Journey Begins With Ambition Studios 

Reformer Pilates isn't just a workout; it's an invitation to transform your body and mind in a welcoming and supportive environment. 

Experience the benefits of improved flexibility, enhanced mind-body connection, and better posture as you embark on this empowering journey. Once you try it you’ll see how effective and versatile it is. 

You’ll leave with every muscle hurting in the best way possible! 

Take the leap and join Ambition for a Reformer Pilates class. Discover the transformative power that awaits. A healthier, more vibrant you is closer than you think.

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ABOUT US :)

If you're looking to enhance your physical and mental well-being, improve your core strength, and achieve a balanced lifestyle, you've come to the right place. We invite you to explore the world of Pilates and discover the unique offerings and benefits of our studio, designed to transform your body and rejuvenate your spirit.

Pilates is a holistic approach to fitness that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. Through a series of controlled movements, Pilates targets deep muscles, improves posture, and enhances body awareness. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, recovering from an injury, or seeking stress relief, Pilates offers a low-impact, yet highly effective, workout suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

At our boutique Pilates studio in Dee Why, we pride ourselves on providing a personalized and intimate experience for our clients. Unlike large fitness centers, we maintain small class sizes to ensure individual attention and a sense of community. Our highly skilled instructors are passionate about Pilates and committed to helping you achieve your goals, whether it's improving flexibility, toning muscles, or enhancing overall fitness.

Our studio is equipped with Balanced Body apparatus, including reformer, Tower, Barrel, chair and spine corrector. These specialized pieces of equipment offer resistance and support, allowing for a wide range of exercises that target specific muscle groups. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, our studio provides the perfect environment to challenge yourself and achieve optimal results.

We offer a range of classes tailored to suit various needs and preferences. Our classes suits all fitness levels and goals. We also offer private sessions for pre and postnatal clients, as well as rehabilitation programs for those recovering from injuries or managing specific conditions. Our class schedule is designed to accommodate busy lifestyles, with options for early mornings, lunchtime sessions, and evening classes.

Our boutique Pilates studio is conveniently located in the heart of Dee Why, making it easily accessible for residents of Sydney's Northern Beaches. Whether you live in Dee Why, nearby suburbs, or are visiting the area, our studio is just a short drive or walk away. Joining our Pilates community offers you the opportunity to improve your well-being.

Are you ready to embark on a Pilates journey? Visit our boutique Pilates studio in Dee Why, Sydney, and experience the benefits of this exceptional method. With our dedicated instructors, top brand equipment, diverse class offerings, and a welcoming environment, we are committed to helping you achieve your fitness goals and rejuvenate your mind and body :)

Top tips for staying healthy while in self-isolation

1. Stick to a routine

Plan out a routine and stick to it. Having structure in your day gives you a sense of stability and peace of mind. For example, get up and go to bed at the same time you usually would and have your meals at the usual time. Make sure you get your normal amount of sleep. Plan different things for your weekend or day off so you can get a break from your routine, just as you normally would. 

2. Get a daily dose of fresh air

Go outside for a walk or run – it’s good for your physical and mental health. Again, plan it into your schedule so you are doing it every day. Getting out of the house will make you feel better and reduce cabin fever.

3. Eat healthy food

Make sure you’re getting your 5 plus a day of fruit and vegetables to stay healthy. Avoid unnecessary snacking which is easy to do when you’re at home. Keep your eating habits as close as possible to what you would usually do. An excess of alcohol is especially risky at this time, so keep to standard drinking advice and find other ways to relieve stress.

4. Stay in touch

A lack of face to face contact with others is tough. However, there are lots of other ways to stay in touch. Pick up the phone, video call friends or family and stay in touch online. Start an online neighbourhood group to keep an eye on each other. You could also throw a virtual party where a group gets together online and connects that way. There are also lots of resources and ideas on the internet to keep you occupied and connected.

5. Exercise regularly

Set aside time each day or week to exercise inside, in the garage or in the garden. It could be pilates, weights, dancing or other forms of exercise. There are many websites offering free virtual exercise classes. It’s also a great time to get stuck into the garden, mow the lawns, clean the house and trim the hedge.

6. Have fun

If you've suddenly find yourself with time on your hands, remember to do something you enjoy. Watch a movie, do some puzzles, play some board games, write that novel, read, redecorate, play charades, start to learn language or do anything else that will put a smile on your face.

7. Have a digital break

While it’s important to stay connected digitally, make sure you do have a break from it and balance your use. Plan times to be digitally connected and times when you switch to 'do not disturb' and become fully present to life in your bubble. 

8. Healthy balance of news

It’s tempting to keep checking all the latest updates about COVID-19 but don’t let it rule your life. Keep informed but also a have a break from the constant flow of information. Have set times where you check the news, maybe morning and night to keep a healthy balance.

9. Meditate

Meditation is proven to have many mental and physical benefits. As does practising mindfulness. They are both free to do and will improve your health and help you stay calm and centred.

Article from: www.healthnavigator.org.nz