The Beginning of the Problem
It was my second-to-last year of university, right in the middle of exams and internships. Like many students, I spent entire days in front of the computer, from 8 AM to 6 PM, often even on weekends. Working remotely for my internship allowed me to stay glued to my desk without ever getting up, to the point that I sometimes skipped lunch or ate something quick and not very nutritious.
After months of this routine, I started experiencing severe pain in my lower back. Sitting for so many consecutive hours without movement had stiffened my muscles and compromised my posture. The pain was so intense that it scared me, making even the simplest movements difficult. That was when I realized I needed to make a change.
Discovering Pilates
I didn't know where to start, but I knew I needed a physical activity to counteract the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. While searching on YouTube, I discovered the Move with Nicole channel, which offered Pilates sessions accessible even for beginners.
I started with 15-20 minutes a day, without expecting much, but after just one week, I noticed an improvement. My back pain had lessened, and my posture had improved. After a month of consistent practice, my body felt stronger, and the pain had almost disappeared. I finally felt better.
The Role of My Dog in My Recovery
Besides Pilates, I made a decision that completely changed my routine: I adopted a chocolate Labrador. I wanted a reason to go outside and move more. Taking him for a walk at least four times a day helped me find balance and prevented me from sitting all day.
Over time, the combination of Pilates and walking transformed both my body and mind. I also decided to follow a more balanced diet to support my energy and overall well-being. By summer, I had regained vitality and strength, and most importantly, my back pain had completely disappeared.
What I Learned from This Experience
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Movement is essential – Sitting for too many hours can have serious consequences on the body. Even just 20 minutes of Pilates a day can make a difference.
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Listening to your body is crucial – Ignoring pain or delaying change is never a good strategy. Taking care of yourself should always be a priority.
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A dog can be a great health ally – Having a reason to go outside every day helped me not only physically but also mentally.
Pilates Is Still Part of My Life
After that experience, I never stopped practicing Pilates. It has become my personal wellness time, three times a week, helping me relax and feel stronger. If you also spend many hours sitting and suffer from back pain, I highly recommend trying it. Pilates can truly make a difference.
And you? Have you ever suffered from back pain due to a sedentary lifestyle? Have you tried Pilates to fix it? Share your experience in the comments!
For those who practice Pilates at home, comfort is essential: the Fitnexfly mat, with its natural cork upper layer and rubber base, provides the ideal grip and stability for every exercise. Learn more at Fitnexfly.it.
