When it comes to shedding stubborn belly fat after 40, it can be difficult, and of course, the wine does not help. So with Spring in the air, I decided that I needed to take my workout to the next level.
Aside from going to the gym a few times a week, I started implementing a pilates routine into my regimen. I read somewhere that to lose one pound a week, you need to cut your calories by 500 calories per day. Depending on your diet this could be easy. For me, I already eat healthy, so it was harder to cut that many calories from food, but the wine is my culprit, so that is what I cut out! Combining that with pilates, I can burn anywhere from 4-8 calories per minute when doing a moderate-intense pilates workout. YEAH!!!
While Pilates has become synonymous for lean, toned bodies, I am looking to strengthen my abdominal muscles; as not only do I hate crunches but with a past back injury, crunches can flare up the injury. However, with pilates, you are always working those abs, and it isn’t as harsh like with ab crunches. And what is even better is that you are also working your obliques and deep abdominal muscles like the transverse abdominous. You also learn how to hold your spine stable, so no back pain.
But the bottom line for women over forty to have a slimmer waistline, we need to active. So now that I got the workout in place, I need to make sure my pilates gym bag is also ready.
Everything You Need In Your Pilates Gym Bag
For this post, I have partnered up with Tucketts. Tucketts manufactures toeless pilates grip socks for barefoot workouts that completely retain the barefoot sensations of connection, freedom, and balance, with the added comfort and stability of a gripping sock.
Jump In Feet First With Tucketts Socks
Since I do Pilates at home, I have a wood floor, and regular socks are scary, as I have fallen a few times. But with Tucketts you don’t have to worry about slipping with their toeless grip socks! The elastic gives you the support you need, the grippers provide a slip-free surface area, and the open toe design helps you balance.
Nude for Everyone; Tucketts Toe Free Nude Sock Style
These socks are very versatile, and I love that they come in many colors. Another thing I like about this brand is that each season they review their customer’s requests for inspiration for new, unique designs.
Their newest line is an open toe sock in a nude shade, not just one nude shade but they wanted their toeless socks to appeal to every skin tone, so now everyone can go nude!!!!
Exercise Matt
Even though I do Pilates at home a yoga mat is a must and for those of you doing Pilates outside of your home, having your clean yoga matt is best, as no amount of spray can get rid of some of those hidden bacteria found on shared matts. YUCK!
Water Bottle
Keeping hydrated is very important; unfortunately I am bad at this, as I only eat when I am hungry and drink when I am thirsty, and I am rarely thirsty. However, when you exercise, you lose water through sweat. Hence you need to replace this water to maintain and get the best workout, so don’t forget the water.
Towel
Believe it or not you do sweat during a Pilates class, so having a fresh, clean cloth is essential as no one wants your sweat on them!
Work Out Wear
Pilates requires a wide range of movement, so aside from my Tucketts socks, having some form-fitting workout attire, like tights or lycra pants or shorts is a must.
Foam Roller
When you are first starting a foam roller can be a savior for sore muscles. They work great to strengthen and to stretch your sore, tight muscles.
Beauty Items
If you are going to work out immediately after work, you need to make sure you have packed some beauty essentials in your pilates bag, see some of my musts below.
- Hair Tie
- Cleansing products to remove your makeup and prevent breakouts
- Deodorant, as no one wants to be stinky
- Hand Sanitizer
Post Workout Nutrition
Protein is excellent to consume right after your workout as it helps your sore muscles to recover. So make sure you pack a protein shake or a protein bar.
20% Discount On Tuckett Socks… Freedom For Your Toes
After spending all the money getting your Pilates workout bag ready, saving money is a must, which is why Tucketts was gracious enough to offer my readers a discount. I love that these socks are fun and colorful, but their packaging is sustainable, it 100% tree-free. Yes, you read correctly! They aim to use the least amount of paper and instead use packaging that is made from 100% Sugar cane fiber. These amazing grip socks are also totally free of harmful dyes, and are biodegradable and recyclable, now how cool is that?
These socks have been a life saver for me and are a must to add to my pilates workout and can be yours too as you can now get 20% off using coupon code BARBIESBEAUTYBITS at checkout. Click here to start shopping.