Breathe Better, Move Better: The Power Breath in Pilates and Everyday Life

Core strength, no back pain

When you think of Pilates, you probably picture graceful movements, deep focus, and controlled strength—but there’s one element that’s always flowing quietly in the background: your breath. Breathing might seem automatic (and it is), but how you breathe can have a powerful impact on your physical and mental well-being—especially when it comes to Pilates and core activation.

Let’s take a moment to inhale some knowledge and exhale some clarity on why breath matters so much.

Breathing in Pilates: More Than Just In and Out

In Pilates, breath isn’t just something that happens alongside movement—it’s an integral part of the practice. Proper breathing patterns help:

• Support and stabilize the core

• Enhance focus and body awareness

• Coordinate movement more efficiently

• Release tension and promote relaxation

Joseph Pilates himself said, “Above all, learn to breathe correctly.” And with good reason—your breath is a bridge between your mind and body. When you breathe fully and intentionally, you fuel your movements with energy and control.

In Pilates, you’ll often hear cues like “inhale to prepare, exhale to engage.” That exhale? It’s your secret weapon for switching on deep core muscles and protecting your spine.

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Let’s Talk Core: It’s More Than Abs

Many people hear “core” and immediately think “six-pack.” But in Pilates, the core is a much deeper and more interconnected system of muscles that help stabilize your spine and pelvis. Think of it as your body’s powerhouse.

Your core includes:

• Transverse abdominis (deep abdominal muscle)

• Multifidus (deep spinal stabilizer)

• Pelvic floor muscles

• Diaphragm (yes, your breathing muscle!)

• Internal and external obliques

• Erector spinae (back extensors)

When you breathe mindfully—especially diaphragmatic or lateral breathing—you naturally recruit and engage these muscles. This kind of core support helps improve posture, prevent injury, and give you that effortless, controlled movement Pilates is known for.

Why Oxygen Matters: For Muscles and Mind

Breath is our natural oxygen delivery system—and oxygen is vital. Here’s what it does:

For the Muscles:

• Delivers nutrients: Oxygen helps break down glucose into usable energy (ATP) for muscular contraction.

• Aids in recovery: Better oxygen flow means quicker removal of waste like lactic acid, reducing soreness.

• Improves endurance: Efficient oxygen use helps you move longer with less fatigue.

For the Brain:

• Boosts mental clarity: More oxygen means better concentration, memory, and alertness.

• Reduces stress: Deep, steady breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” mode), calming your mind and body.

• Enhances mood: More oxygen = more serotonin production, which supports emotional balance.

So whether you’re holding a Pilates teaser at www.madetomove.co.uk

or trying to get through a long workday, that deep breath is doing more than you think.

So next time you’re on the mat, or even just at your desk, take a moment. Inhale fully. Exhale slowly. Feel the shift.

Your body—and your brain—will thank you.