If you want to develop long, lean muscles and a strong core, yoga and Pilates may be your best bet.
Being low intensity and low impact, yoga and Pilates are accessible to people of any fitness level and complement other forms of exercise. While they share similarities, they are quite different disciplines, however.
Yoga originated in India thousands of years ago, with the physical practice of holding and moving through a series of poses being one element of a larger discipline that also includes breath control and meditation, with the ultimate aim of focusing the mind.
Pilates, on the other hand, is only a century old and was originally developed to help rehabilitate bed-bound patients. By targeting the deep core muscles and building strength and stability, it helps prevent and recover from injury. Cayman has plenty of studios offering a variety of styles of yoga and Pilates, with some also hosting multi-day retreats.
BLISS
With a full schedule of classes running from 6 am to 6 pm or later daily, and over a dozen teachers offering everything from dynamic disciplines such as vinyasa and hot yoga to soothing restorative and meditation classes, there is something to suit every ability and fitness level.
www.blissyogacayman.com
BODYWORKS
Comprised of a spa, retail store and yoga studio, Bodyworks is dedicated to nourishing and cleansing body, mind and soul. Beginner, intermediate and mixed-level classes aim to prepare the body for meditation through gentle stretches, breathing and deep relaxation.
www.bodyworkscayman.com
FLOW
Set among fruit orchards and a plant nursery, Flow offers a nourishing respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Anti-gravity (also known as aerial) yoga classes are performed using hammock-like silks that provide support in inversions and counter the effects of gravity.
www.flow.ky
ALIGN
At Align, Pilates classes are taught by a certified physiotherapist, making them particularly suited to those with existing injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. The mat-based sessions are limited to eight participants to ensure plenty of time for corrections, with beginner, intermediate and advanced classes offered.
www.align.ky
ENERGY
Energy’s varied Pilates-inspired classes are all founded on the principles of natural alignment and core-based movement, some making use of weights, fitness circles, stability balls or Boshu balls, and others using the ultimate piece of Pilates equipment: the Reformer. Private personal training and partner packages are also offered.
www.energycayman.com
THE PILATES STUDIO
This small Pilates studio offers a variety of progressive classes to build up strength and stamina, with slower-paced classes being ideal for those with injuries or back problems. Mat work, reformer and chair/tower group classes are offered, as well as private, partner and golf-specific training.
www.pilates.ky