Why Pilates Is the Best 10 Minutes of My Day

I’ve been exercising regularly for more than 30 years, and for the last decade, running has been my go-to. I love how simple it is: I can lace up my shoes, head out the door, and be done in half an hour. But as I’ve gotten older, I started to notice that running alone wasn’t enough. My body felt stiff, my flexibility was decreasing, and I was carrying tension in ways I hadn’t before.

After I had my two children, I wanted something that would help me feel stronger and more in control of my body again. That’s when I discovered Pilates. At first, I started with a very simple floor routine, but within two months the results were undeniable. My core felt stronger, my posture improved, and I noticed changes in how my clothes fit. Most importantly, I felt better in myself.

Since then, I’ve gone through busy periods where I’ve let it slip, but every time I return to Pilates I have the same realization: this really works for me. Running keeps me moving, but Pilates makes me feel strong, balanced, and supported from the inside out.

One thing I love about Pilates is the flow. My routine moves smoothly from one exercise to the next, with little rest in between. That continuous movement creates a surprising aerobic effect - my heart rate stays elevated, but I’m also deeply engaging my core. It reminds me of the image of a swan: graceful and calm on the surface, but working hard underneath. That’s how Pilates feels: elegant, but also powerful.

Research backs this up too. Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method, believed his exercises built not just strength but also control, posture, and balance. Today, studies show Pilates improves flexibility and mobility, strengthens the core, enhances balance, supports posture, and even helps with stress relief. For me, it’s the combination of all those benefits that makes it so valuable. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about moving through everyday life with more ease.

And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or hours in a gym. Ten minutes a day is enough to feel a difference. That makes Pilates accessible for everyone - whether you’re career-driven, balancing family life, living in a remote area, or simply don’t want the cost or hassle of a gym membership. It’s about building a habit that’s realistic and sustainable.

That’s why I created The 10-Minute Fitness Formula: a simple, flexible online program designed for busy people like me (and maybe like you). It’s built around three different 10-minute routines: one for core strength, one for gentle strength and mobility, and one for stretch and release. You can start with just one, and add more as you feel ready.

Pilates has become the one form of movement I know I’ll keep coming back to, no matter what stage of life I’m in. If you’ve been thinking about adding a little more balance and strength into your routine, maybe this is the start you’ve been waiting for.

👉 Explore my course [The 10-Minute Fitness Formula] and see how 10 minutes a day can help you feel stronger, more flexible, and more at home in your body.