As a lifelong athlete, training has always been a part of who I am. But over the years, I’ve noticed something when I work with women: many clients don’t see themselves as athletes. They’ll say things like, “Oh, I’m not athletic,” or “I was never good at sports.”
But here’s what I always remind them: you don’t have to play on a team or run marathons to train like an athlete. In fact, some of the most important reasons for training like this have nothing to do with competition.
What Training Like an Athlete Really Means
When you picture an athlete, you might think of someone sprinting toward a finish line or training for hours daily. But the reality is, athletes train with one primary purpose: to keep their bodies moving at their best.
That means building strength and stability, improving mobility, preventing injuries, and developing the stamina to keep going day after day.
Does this sound like something that could help in everyday life? Absolutely. Whether it’s picking up kids, carrying groceries, or navigating a long workday, training like an athlete prepares you for life, not just for sport.
Pilates: An Athlete’s Secret Weapon
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that Pilates is “gentle” or “just stretching.” The truth is that Pilates is one of the best tools athletes use to move better, get stronger, and stay injury-free.
It builds deep core strength, improves posture, and creates the balance and mobility that every body—athletic or not—needs. Professional athletes, from dancers to football players, swear by it.
And for women who don’t consider themselves athletes, Pilates is the perfect place to start. It’s approachable, doesn’t require fancy equipment (yes, we have equipment, but Mat work is still highly effective and can be done ANYWHERE), and can be adapted to your level.
The Athlete Mindset Shift
Here’s where the magic happens: when you start thinking like an athlete, you stop training for how you look and start training for what your body can do.
Athletes know it’s about:
- Consistency over perfection: Show up, even if it’s not perfect.
- Function over appearance: Focus on strength, mobility, and capability.
- Recovery as part of training: Rest and movement both matter.
- Longevity: You’re not training just for today but for the decades ahead.
You’re More of an Athlete Than You Think
At the end of the day, you don’t need a medal or a jersey to claim the word athlete. If you move your body with intention and train to be strong and resilient for the life you want to live, you already are one.
Pilates can help you step into that mindset. It’s not about becoming someone different; it’s about unlocking the strength, balance, and confidence within you.
So next time you catch yourself thinking, “I’m not an athlete,” remember: you don’t have to be one to train like one. You just need to start.
If this sounds good to you, let’s chat!
