Pilates is a holistic exercise meant to bright balance and strength back to your body. A key part of that journey towards flexibility and fitness can be found in your diet. Proper nutrition is essential if you want to hit your health and fitness goals, which is why we wrote about ‘What & When to Eat Pre-Pilates Class’.
While a well-balanced diet is the key to nutrition, there are other ways that you can meet your nutritional needs. One of those methods includes supplementation. Below, we’ve listed out five supplements from natural sources that can help you improve your body and Pilates practice. Check them out below.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a little-known chemical that can have huge benefits for people practicing Pilates or yoga. Sourced from shellfish and cartilage, it can help you combat joint pain and improve your flexibility, which is always a plus for Pilates.
Experts recommend Zenwise Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate, as it’s specially formulated to help with exercise recovery. With the addition of hyaluronic acid, which helps cushion and lubricate the joints, it’s great for people who need quality, consistent results.
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy yeasts and bacteria that improve the condition of your gut. Your gut is the center of your health, as a healthy gut allows you to better absorb the nutrients from your food, as well as provide immune defense against harmful bacteria, viruses, and organisms.
Plus, with better digestion you feel lighter and more able to do your Pilates workouts. Brightcore’s ACV gummies are a great source of probiotics and are sourced from organic apples grown in the USA. They’re also great for lowering your blood sugar levels and boosting your energy. And with no dairy, gluten, soy, or artificial binders, you can be sure that you’re getting safe, natural nutrition.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is pretty important for your overall health. It’s well known as an immune booster, and performs a variety of roles in the body. For people practicing Pilates, vitamin C is particularly important because it helps the body produce collagen. Collagen is necessary for healthier joints, bones, and better flexibility, so be sure to put this on your list.
Nature’s Bounty Vitamin C is a clear favorite because it’s affordable but still sourced from quality ingredients. It’s free of major allergens and artificial flavors and sweeteners, making it a great choice for people with dietary restrictions. Additionally, this supplement is pure vitamin C, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Vitamin D
Another vitamin that’s pretty well known is vitamin D. It’s widely regarded as a great mood booster, and has been known to improve bone health and muscle strength. This is particularly important for people who do Pilates, as strong bones and muscles help with form and fitness.
While vitamin D can be found in natural food sources, and even from the sun, supplementation is a good idea if you want to keep your intake consistent. NatureWise Vitamin D3 softgels are affordable but quality, and use cold-pressed organic olive oil for better absorption. Unfortunately, these capsules aren’t vegan, but they are free of major food allergens like soy, dairy, wheat, corn, fish, and much more.
Calcium
And finally, there’s calcium. Pilates is a type of exercise that’s been shown to have beneficial effects on bone health. Taking in more calcium is one way to help boost that. Calcium isn’t just necessary for bone and teeth health, either— it also plays a role in muscle movement and in your nervous system.
Calcium can be sourced through a wide variety of whole foods, including dairy products and vegetables. If you choose to go the supplement route, try Care/of Calcium Plus. While a little on the pricier side, it’s a high quality calcium supplement that’s formulated with other nutrients to provide the best cocktail for bone health. The brand also offers personalized subscription plans, so you can work on specific health and nutrition goals.
