Get better posture, stronger muscles and improved balance using nothing but a wall.
That's the promise of an emerging fitness trend — wall Pilates. It's easy to be skeptical of these instructional videos on social media that recently skyrocketed in popularity.
"I was starting to just see it all over TikTok," said certified Pilates instructor Kayla Brugger. She saw the demand for wall Pilates content and started incorporating the practice into her YouTube Channel and studio, Pilates Body by Kayla.
"Who doesn't have access to a wall?" Brugger said.
Wall Pilates makes traditional Pilates more accessible by nixing expensive equipment like reformers.
Brugger said that when done correctly, the moves mimic a reformer's smooth sliding, with presses and lifts being performed off the wall instead.
In a sea of wall Pilates challenges online, Brugger filmed her own versions and uploaded them for free online.
"I have 7, 10 days, 21 days and this 28-day wall Pilates challenge was going to fill that gap," Brugger said.
In addition to being more cost effective, wall Pilates adapts advanced moves, making them easier and safer for a beginner.
"It's really hard to get into our deep abdominals because with the weight of our legs, we tend to arch our back," Brugger said. "The wall now is limiting your range of motion."
Brugger recommended finding videos online that are led by a certified instructor. Watch carefully before trying out new moves, as she said this can minimize the risk of neck and shoulder strain.
"Every form of exercise has a way that you could do it wrong," Brugger said.
That's why Britney Magdal began following Brugger's videos
"I started probably about a month or so ago," Magdal said. "I'm on Kayla's 21 day challenge."
A former gymnast, Magdal is used to exercise, but wanted an easier workout she could do at home.
"I'm like, stronger even after 10 days," Magdal said. "I can feel my form has become sharper and stronger."
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