Instead of waiting for flowers or valentines this February, shower yourself with love! The most powerful way to show self-love is by practicing self-care — starting with your heart. The heart is vital in pumping blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells. In 2023, heart disease was the number one cause of death worldwide, a statistic that shows how important it is to care for our hearts. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of heart disease is to begin exercising. Pilates is a powerful, low-impact exercise that allows users to ease their way into a workout routine without putting strain on the heart. This month, we have prepared a list of heart-healthy exercises to do on your Frame Reformer:
- Footwork: Footwork is a foundational exercise that benefits your heart by increasing your heart rate. As your heart beats faster, you train your body to move oxygen and blood to your muscles more effectively. Using your Frame Reformer, lay on your back and press against the foot bar to move the carriage. This exercise can help improve circulation and increase blood flow to the muscles.
- Long Stretch: Long Stretch is a dynamic exercise that involves holding a Plank position while moving the carriage back and forth. This exercise can help improve cardiovascular endurance and strengthen the upper body.
- Side Lying Leg Work: Side Lying Leg Work is a low-impact exercise that engages our easy-to-use push-button resistance springs to target the muscles of the legs and glutes. This exercise can help improve circulation and build strength in the lower body.
- Spine Stretch: Spine Stretch is a seated exercise that uses our push-button resistance springs to strengthen the back muscles by stretching. This exercise can help improve overall flexibility and mobility, circulation, and heart health.
This month, reduce your risk of heart disease by incorporating these exercises into your Frame Reformer routine!
