Why, if I teach Pilates, would I be interested in Exeter gyms? The answer is fairly simple. Whilst Pilates caters for a big part of your health; it doesn’t make you sweat!  Not unless of course, I’m in a particularly sweaty mood, but to be fair that happens rarely.  I make it a point to ‘glow’ rather than sweat even on my 10-mile runs! The point is that the cardio effect is missing from your Pilates sessions.  And as I have taught and worked in most of the gyms, in and around, Exeter over the last 20 years I am in a good position to know what my clients are looking for in a gym.  My Pilates clients are always asking me to recommend gyms and workouts; so I thought it would be easier to write a blog.

Being healthy and fit for life has always been my number one priority and ensuring that my clients reach their full potential, greatest fitness and optimum energy levels are what I care about most.  Whatever method you choose to get healthier and fitter I want to help you get there.   So whether I am talking about a gym membership, yoga, CrossFit or Pilates classes, your best health is what matters.  Whilst Pilates covers the strength and mind-body stretching aspect, cardio is not something that Pilates focuses on and therefore finding the best gym in Exeter to help with this level of fitness supplements my client’s journey into health and wellbeing which is why I put together this post to find the 3 best gyms in Exeter.

The 3 types of exercises that are needed to have a good level of overall fitness: cardio, strength and stretch. When participants stick to their favoured exercise whether that is yoga, cycling, tennis, running etc they will get strong in one area. This is not advantageous for overall health, fitness or flexibility. Focusing on one sports discipline means you get strong and powerful in one area, not all three.

What are the 3 types of exercise needed for great health?

For the best levels of fitness, exercise needs to work across 3 different disciplines – cardio, strength, and Pilates mind-body stretching.

• Cardiovascular aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and requires you to use more oxygen. It is referred to as aerobic exercise or cardio for short.
• Strength or resistance training is where you build and maintain muscles with the use of either weights or resistance bands as we do in Pilates. Strength training is incredibly important for maintaining muscle mass throughout your life, plus it helps to keep your bones robust, and in good health.
• Stretching, lengthening and aligning your muscles will create a limber, more flexible body which will make your daily life easier. Plus improving your flexibility will prevent injuries, reduces muscle tension, increases circulation, and improve your posture. This often the element of fitness that is ignored and which Pilates caters for the most.

These three elements are required in every ‘body’s fitness regime, which is why talking about Exeter’s best gyms will help to give you a range of alternatives and accompaniments to your Pilates workouts.

Why are the benefits of using a gym?

The benefits of using a gym can range from ease of use, flexibility and accessibility plus like you would in a Pilates class, that strong feeling of community.  Having access to a wide range of fitness equipment; varies your workouts.  Plus if you also invest in a personal trainer you’ll be using these sophisticated machines safely and more efficiently. You’ll be able to get the results you want quicker.

Here are my top 3 best gyms in Exeter, I’d be very interested to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave feedback in the comment box below.

What are the best gyms in Exeter?