6 Bollywood actresses who trust the power of pilates for fitness

A rigorous workout plan may make you feel tired and reluctant to exercise. But imagine a workout that combines core-engaging traditional exercises with the fluidity of dance. That is exactly what Pilates does. Whether practiced on a mat or specialized equipment, Pilates offers a versatile and comprehensive workout to enhance the body and mind. But this low-impact exercise is not just a trend for fitness enthusiasts, it is also a staple in the fitness routine of Bollywood actresses. From Alia Bhatt, and Deepika Padukone to Kareena Kapoor Khan, Bollywood beauties have embraced the power of Pilates to enhance their physique and overall wellness. Here are six Bollywood celebrities who do Pilates to stay healthy and fit.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a low-impact exercise, which has several health benefits. It follows a standard set of exercises, focusing on precise movements, controlled breathing and muscle engagement to enhance muscle tone and stability. Unlike yoga, which emphasises mind and body connection, Pilates puts greater importance on improving core strength through structured exercises. It can be performed using several pieces of equipment, including resistance bands, reformers, foam rollers, barrels, bars, mats or blankets. Pilates can help improve posture, and flexibility, provide relief from pain, enhance balance, and coordination and improve overall mental well-being. A study published in Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal states that Pilates uses a combination of repetitive exercises to create muscular exertion and build endurance.

Bollywood celebrities who do Pilates to stay fit

Here are some celebrities who do Pilates to transform their fitness:

1. Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt rules over the Hindi Film Industry. From bringing the ‘Poo’ era back with her film, Student Of The Year to winning the National Award for performance in Gangubai Kathiawadi, the actress has etched her name in the hearts of millions. Besides giving exceptional performances, she is also known for her fitness. She often drops glimpses of her fitness sessions on her social media, attributing her lean and strong physique to Pilates. Her trainer, Yasmin Karachiwala has crafted a solid program for Alia, which helps to keep her in top shape for her demanding roles.

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2. Deepika Padukone

Bollywood actress, Deepika Padukone, who is expecting her first child with husband Ranveer Singh is a firm believer in Pilates. She regularly engages in a rigorous fitness routine, which includes Pilates formulated by her trainer, Yasmin Karachiwala. She has embraced Pilates as a regular practice to enhance her core, flexibility and strength. There is no doubt that Deepika’s dedication to her workout plan and diet is the secret of her fitness.

3. Kareena Kapoor Khan

Along with redefining fashion with her character ‘Poo’ in Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kareena Kapoor Khan often stuns her fans with her workout sessions. The 43-year-old actress gives tough competition to her counterparts when it comes to fitness. She is a true Pilates girl and her trainer, Namrata Purohit often shares glimpses of her workout routines on social media platforms. To enhance her core strength, and arm muscles and tone her body, Kareena focuses on a mix of Pilates exercises, including mat exercises and equipment-based Pilates. Indeed, her transformation and fitness have been an inspiration for millions of women in their 40s.

Also Read: Veteran actress Helen does Pilates at the age of 85! Know if it is safe

4. Sara Ali Khan

The princess of the Pataudi family and Bollywood actress, Sara Ali Khan’s transformation journey is an inspiration and a source of motivation. She bravely fought PCOD and reduced her weight from 96 kilograms to 45 kilograms by following a rigorous workout plan, which included Pilates. She is one of the celebrities who do Pilates regularly to stay ahead in the fitness game. Under the guidance of her trainer, Namrata Purohit, Sara incorporates a mix of Pilates exercises in her workout routine to enhance her flexibility and strength. Undoubtedly, her fitness journey is proof that adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve your overall health.

Also Read: 8 ways to improve your Pilates practice and gain better results

5. Janhvi Kapoor

Following in her mother’s (Sridevi) footsteps, Janhvi Kapoor is known for her dedication to fitness. The actress swears by Pilates to enhance her overall health and wellness. It has helped her build a strong core, improved posture and flexibility. Janhvi, under the guidance of celebrity trainer Namrata Purohit, has performed a single-leg deadlift on the reformer, which strengthens your muscles,, enhances core strength, improves balance and establishes a deeper connection between the mind and body.

6. Malaika Arora

How can we not mention the OG Malaika Arora when it comes to fitness? She is synonymous with fitness and her age-defying looks are a result of a well-balanced fitness and diet plan. Along with being a pro at yoga, the diva also swears by Pilates for maintaining her flexibility, strength and toned physique. From mat exercises to doing Pilates on a machine, she adopts different exercise techniques to enhance her overall fitness.

Also Read: 5 effective Pilates reformer exercises for a full-body workout

What are the benefits of Pilates?

First introduced by Joseph Pilates, a physical education advocate, Pilates may offer several health benefits.

1. Improves body awareness

Pilates emphasise controlled movements, precise alignment and mindful breathing. This makes you focus on how your body moves and feels during exercises. It promotes a deeper connection between the mind and body, leading to better movement efficacy, improved posture and flexibility. According to the journal, Sports Health, the “mind over matter” concept is an important element of this exercise, which helps improve body awareness.

2. Strengthens the core

Pilates includes shoulder and hip girdles for core strengthening and emphasises posture as an integrated whole-body activity as per a study published in Sports Health. The core muscles, including the abdominals, power back and pelvic floor are an important part of Pilates. By strengthening these muscles, Pilates help improve posture, reduce pain and enhance stability.

3. Improves flexibility

Pilates incorporate a range of stretching exercises, which help improve flexibility. Exercises like controlled muscle stretches can help enhance flexibility and mobility in joints. It helps maintain a range of motion, allowing you to move freely and comfortably.

4. Enhances posture

A good posture is essential for overall health and performing Pilates can help maintain it. By focusing on alignment and strengthening the core, Pilates can help alleviate back pain, and neck pain and contribute to a more enhanced posture.

5. Reduces stress

Besides physical benefits, Pilates can also help improve mental well-being. It can help reduce stress and promote mental clarity. A study published in the journal, Social and Behavioral Science states that Pilates can help improve mindfulness and body awareness through its breathing exercises and controlled movements.