TV presenter Gabby Logan has expressed her fondness for a particular exercise that she believes is ‘key to a pain-free body’. The 51-year-old shared that she’s been participating in this low-intensity workout for several years, which she feels provides a solid foundation for engaging in other sports and training.
“As you know I love a bit of movement, but I am always dashing so never really post about it,” she said on Instagram. “I asked @emilyrogersfitness to film a few moves today so I could say thanks to her for being such an excellent teacher and also to extol my love of Pilates.
“I also do mat and classes @yatta_pilates but Emily has given me such good foundations over the last few years. It’s the key to a pain-free body for me and then I can do all the other sport and training I love. (This is in Emily’s studio not my reformer for those asking).”
While Pilates is often confused with yoga, the former focuses more on core strength, whereas the latter is typically slower and centred around holding positions. Pilates can be particularly beneficial for those aiming to lose weight or tone up, and may even aid in the recovery from certain health issues.
Conditions such as scoliosis, arthritis and back pain are among those that certain Pilates-style workouts are recommended for, with the NHS providing several example guides on its website. However, it’s advisable to consult a GP before attempting these.
“More research is needed, but there is some evidence to suggest that Pilates can be helpful for people who have lower back pain,” the NHS explains. “Regular Pilates practice can help with posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility. It can also relieve stress and tension.”
Gabby isn’t the only high-profile figure to sing the praises of Pilates. Former Top Gear host, Jeremy Clarkson, shared his own experience with a low-intensity Pilates routine following life-saving heart surgery.
Writing in his column for The Sunday Times, he said: “I’m always surprised when I wake the morning after a session to find my legs are stiff, because it doesn’t really feel like I’ve done very much at all. My instructor assures me, though, that I really have. And that makes me happy because so far I’ve relied on luck to keep me alive.”
In addition, Maya Jama from Love Island also explained that Pilates is the only form of training that she doesn’t have to talk herself into doing. “I do one-to-one sessions with Marsha Lindsay at Nobu London and it’s great because it’s a lighter workout but you’re using every single muscle,” she told Women’s Health last year.
“You can also do it at midday, and it doesn’t leave you drenched with sweat. It’s the only form of exercise that I don’t have to talk myself into doing, and that’s a big thing for me!”