Pilates incorporates stretching during the exercises, but unlike yoga we don’t sit and hold a stretch for a long period of time. Holding a stretch can be helpful, so if you’re taking Pilates and you’d like to stretch more at home, here are some insights about stretching that can help you stretch most effectively:

Two young women exercising on the beach

  • A stretch is most effective when held 15 to 30 seconds. Research suggests that holding for a longer period does not increase results.
  • A stretch should be repeated 2 to 4 times for best results.
  • People should stretch a MINIMUM of 2 to 3 days per week, but stretching everyday is not necessarily a bad option.
  • While there are lots of different types of stretching, all forms have been show to be effective.