Like anything in life, you get out of something what you put into it, so why not apply this to your next Pilates workout? By taking on board these few points you will come out of each and every workout feeling not only restored but knowing that you have your moneys worth from every class and are keen and motivated for the next.

1. Proper Hydration: As the summer months are approaching, being properly hydrated is very important. Dehydration has a number of negative affects on the body including headaches and nausea, not to mention the inability for you to reach your full workout potential. Make sure before every class that you have had enough water and continually sip throughout. On average, we lose approximately 500ml of water just through insensible loss. So in those approaching summer months when your workouts kick up a few notches make sure you always have water on hand.

2. Suitable exercise clothes:  I see this all the time in the studio, someone comes in wearing something overly loose and revealing only to fidget the entirety of their workout not thinking about the exercise, rather if something is about to make a cameo that shouldn’t. By wearing clothes that are comfortable, suitable and stylish, not only will you go into your Pilates workout knowing that everything is going to stay in place but chances are you will be feeling a lot more body confident. I love abi and joseph's Cap Sleeve Fitted Tee that has ample bust coverage for this reason, and it’s also suitable to wear from Pilates to wherever the day may take you.

3. Doing homework your teacher recommends: I can’t stress enough that if you only do one Pilates workout that is one hour out of your entire week where you are focussed on body conditioning. For that reason, it is imperative that if you have a pressing body issue that needs addressing that you do any exercises your instructor gives you as homework. This means that every time you come to class you are able to progress your workouts further and condition your body a lot quicker.

4. Continually push yourself and goal set: If you keep doing the same thing over and over would you really expect to change in terms of your body shape and how well you do an exercise? Each and every workout you should strive to push out one to two more perfect repetitions or adjust your spring tension if you are using the Pilates equipment. By also having goals such as perfecting your teaser by Christmas, chances are you will put more effort into perfecting each and every exercise that will help you get to your goal. Your goal can be anything from touching your toes to sculpting your ultimate toosh!

5. Have fun and enjoy yourself: Exercise is vital if you want a healthy lifestyle so go into every workout knowing that you are treating your body! Pilates workouts should be a fun and rewarding experience, knowing that every time you complete a workout you are closer to your fitness, health and body related goals. It’s a great way of getting scheduled you time in your life – enjoy that!

About Peta Serras: Polestar Pilates trained Peta Serras founded her studio Pilates Evolution Now in East Maitland in 2009. She holds her Diploma in Professional Pilates through Polestar Australia and Certificate III in Fitness through the Australian Institute of Applied Sciences. Pilates Evolution Now also works in conjunction with a number of Massage Therapists, Physiotherapists and other health professionals to ensure that all clients receive the most effective health and wellness benefits. To learn more about Pilates Evolution Now, visit their website or become a fan on facebook