Maya Jama has shared a low-intensity workout that’s perfect for anyone who hates getting ‘drenched’ in sweat. The 30-year-old TV star, who’s currently hosting then new series of Love Island: All Stars, previously shed light on her very rigorous workout routine.
Although this includes burpees, cycling and a hefty number of weights, there’s just one form of training that she doesn’t need to talk herself into doing. It may come as a surprise to know that such an exercise is Pilates, involving a sequence of precise movements.
“I do one-to-one sessions with Marsha Lindsay at Nobu London and it’s great because it’s a lighter workout but you’re using every single muscle,” she told Women’s Health last year. “You can also do it at midday, and it doesn’t leave you drenched with sweat.
“It’s the only form of exercise that I don’t have to talk myself into doing, and that’s a big thing for me!” Even though Pilates is frequently confused with yoga, the latter is often slower and focused on holding stances, while Pilates is more about core strength and muscle toning.
Doing Pilates is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to shed pounds or tone up, though it may help in the recovery of certain health problems too. Back pain, scoliosis and arthritis are among the conditions that certain Pilates-style exercises are recommended for, with the NHS sharing several example tutorials on its website.
Yet, advice from the heath authority stresses that ‘more research is needed’ on the subject and it’s worth speaking to a doctor before following classes in these cases. “More research is needed, but there is some evidence to suggest that Pilates can be helpful for people who have lower back pain,” the NHS explains.
“Regular Pilates practice can help with posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility. It can also relieve stress and tension.”
Aside from its physical benefits, Maya previously shared with Stylist that exercise is crucial for her mental wellbeing. During an interview in 2021, she said: “I just think [working out] helps your mental health so much anyway – there’s a difference in how I feel if I go out and do some exercise versus just staying in bed all day. I notice how it impacts my brain and how I’m feeling.”
Maya is not alone in this belief either. Additional advice from Mayo Clinic echoes that Pilates is widely associated with improved wellbeing.
“If you allow the breath coaching you get in a Pilates class to spill over into your daily life, you may find yourself better able to handle difficult situations and emotions,” its guidance states. “While not a high-intensity workout, Pilates gets your heart pumping, and combines strength and resistance training with deep stretching. Think of Pilates as complementing — not replacing — any mental health support you’re already receiving.”