Intense exercise changes the body and muscles at a molecular level in ways that milder physical activity doesn’t match, according to an enlightening new study. Though the study was conducted in mice, the findings add to growing scientific evidence that to realize the greatest benefits from workouts, we probably need to push ourselves.

For some time, scientists and exercise experts have debated the merits of intensity in exercise. Everyone agrees, of course, that any exercise is more healthful than none. But beyond that baseline, is strenuous exercise somehow better, from a physiological standpoint, than a relative stroll?  Read more

Raved about by celebrities and endorsed by sport stars across the globe, Pilates has become a staple workout for many due to its wide-ranging benefits. Maria Tracey rolls out her mat and hops onto the reformer to discover the perks. 

Are you a Pilates virgin? If so then you might associate it with impossible poses and smug celebrities. However, if you thought their toned tums and pert posteriors were entirely down to Photoshop then you'd be entirely wrong: Pilates is popular among the body beautiful for a reason: it works. 

In fact, once embraced, Pilates can make a significant difference to a person's health without taking a toll on their body as it involves conscious breathing, and proper alignment. Created by German-born Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s, Pilates helps develop a strong core, lengthens and stretches all the major muscle groups in the body in a balanced fashion, improves sports performance and prevents injuries.  Read more

This week I tried something new. I went to a Pilates class.

It’s not that I dislike yoga or Pilates, I just don’t feel the benefits as much as I do with a high-impact class. I love the feeling of my heart pounding inside my chest and fatigued muscles as I leave a studio on wobbly legs drenched in sweat.

But I also know Pilates is great for your core muscles. And as my personal trainer at Equinox James Mearns keeps reminding me: ‘In all forms of running, whether it be short, mid or long distance, the core muscles are constantly being engaged.’

Not only that but Pilates teaches breath control and activates the muscles used for respiration. Perfect for any of the Race for Life events. Pilates also helps to improve overall flexibility, strength and balance, promotes good posture, and helps correct body alignments in the hips, knee, ankle and foot.  Read more