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What Kind Of Diet Should I Be On When Doing Pilates?
By
Patricia | October 21, 2008
Pilates is a body-mind approach to fitness. It was developed in the 1920’s and focuses on corrective and conditioning exercises for the body. It aims to strengthen the body by working and developing the core strength of the body, it’s abdominal and pelvic floor muscles.
While there is no specified diet plan accorded to the practice of Pilates, it is important to remember that a good diet plan will only enhance the effects of the fitness regime. There is very little wisdom in doing an hour’s worth of Pilates and then gorging on cheese burgers and fries; the sculpted look will elude you. On the other hand back your session with a healthy balance diet and the effects will be visible, even if you practice only for 40 minutes!
It is a common misunderstanding that eating healthy means eating disgusting, tasteless food. On the contrary, healthy nutritious foods will fill you up and will also stop those unhealthy cravings for processed foods.
Diet Plan For Pilates Exercises
When chalking up a diet plan, it is best to consult a nutritionist who will consider your dietary restrictions and general health and come up with the best options. However, if you are interest in the broad strokes, this is what you need to see on your plate:
Eat – The most important part of a Pilates or any other diet for that matter is to actually eat. Starving yourself only harms the body. If you aren’t receiving the required nutrients, a work out can lead to severe injuries. Learn to nourish your body the right way. Start with breakfast and follow up with two healthy meals and two small healthy snacks through the day for best results.
Fresh Vegetables, Fruits and Juices – These are the simplest and most basic components of any healthy diet plant. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and high in essential nutrients. This means you can eat bigger portions without worry. They also make you feel full for longer, which helps you stay off unhealthy processed foods. Remember greens don’t mean just broccoli, there is a whole produce section to choose from. Mix things up and discover new recipes.
Protein Rich Foods – It is helpful to add protein rich foods like fish, eggs and pulses to the Pilates diet. These foods provide the body with nutrients needed to build and strengthen the muscles of the body, and more importantly in building the core muscles (abdominal and pelvic floor muscles).
Calcium – Calcium is very important for strong bones. Considering Pilates workouts focus strongly on the spine and the back during the workouts, calcium becomes an important part of the Pilates diet.
Water – Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day. It helps your body metabolize fat faster. It also creates a feeling of fullness, which helps you avoid unhealthy snacks. But remember not to drink up too close to your practice!
It goes without saying that it is best to avoid junk food. Also make sure you don’t eat just before a Pilates session.