Lean muscle is somewhat of an elusive concept – the “unicorn” of the fitness world, so to speak. Does it exist? Are there even different types of muscle at all?
By focusing less on heavy weight training, and more on performing endurance-based and functional isometric-type exercises (like the examples below), you can target your slow-twitch muscles and improve stamina, performance, and increase strength without significantly gaining muscle mass. There are a variety of low-impact ways to achieve this, offering a lower risk of training-related muscle and joint injury. Whichever method you choose – be sure it’s right for your needs, your body, and your abilities.
the key differences is that yoga is largely practiced while standing, whereas pilates is predominantly performed on the floor. Many of the positions in pilates involve balance, and focus on the centre of your body. Control, flow, and precision are key elements with pilates, and concentration is of utmost importance. Deep concentration is required to position the body properly and maintain poses, all while focusing the mind on breathing patterns. It’s no surprise then that it can have major benefits to memory and cognitive functions, as it’s what some refer to as “the thinking person’s exercise”. Pilates is great for people who enjoy yoga, but are looking for a more vigorous work out.
FUNCTIONAL ISOMETRIC TRAINING PROGRAMS
Functional training programs are great if you like to work out at a gym, or enjoy having a quick set of exercises you want to be able to do when you’ve got some spare time at home. Isometric training is essentially working out without actually moving. Sound easy? Well, not exactly. Think planks, bridges, lunges, and squats. Now picture holding them for 30 seconds, or a minute, at a time. Holding these static poses can help increase strength, flexibility, and mobility. They can build tendon and ligament strength, and holding a single position can also help to teach your body proper form for day-to-day repetitive movements. There are many unique ways to get fit – often encompassing great additional mental health benefits. Finding the right program for you, one you enjoy and benefit from, is the most important part of the whole process. Enjoying your exercise routine is the best way to keep your momentum going – and your mind at ease. So be sure you love what you do – it may be the key to your fitness goals.
YOGA
Yoga brings a variety of health benefits - offering a physically intense full body workout, as well as a reduction in stress and anxiety. The low-impact nature of yoga is great for all ages and abilities. It incorporates a variety of muscle groups simultaneously, and can be very physically challenging to the body. The mental health benefits are an added bonus, especially when practiced regularly over a longer period of time.
BARRE
Barre is fairly new to the scene, and incorporates small isometric movements that can build strength without putting strain on tendons or ligaments. With a focus on the repetition of small movements, it can strengthen and tone without increasing bulk. Barre improves posture, and results can often be seen quicker than with yoga or pilates. By incorporating music it can be fun and upbeat, and give a cardiovascular element to your workout that neither yoga nor pilates offers to the same extent.
PILATES
Pilates has a large emphasis on core and back strength, and is often likened to an amped-up version of yoga. People often ask the difference between the two, and while there are many, one of
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