This Multitasking Morning Pilates Workout Will Supercharge Your Brain All Day

Good morning, sunshine! Okay, wow, sorry to be a LOT first thing. But if you were not ready for that energy, may I suggest a new 22-minute morning Pilates workout from East River Pilates trainer Brian Spencer?

"This is guaranteed to wake you up and get you feeling energized for your day," says Spencer.

Exercise feels so great first thing in the morning because it increases blood circulation, which sends oxygen to your brain and throughout your body, naturally helping you wake up and get going. It also helps you improve brain function because it stimulates the release of proteins and hormones responsible for nerve development and plasticity in the brain.

Spencer keeps those brain-boosting benefits at the forefront with a workout that challenges both your body and your mind. Right away, you’ll work through poses lying down, featuring classic Pilates moves like tabletop legs and glute bridges. But Spencer throws in some compound movements and coordination to get your noggin’ in on the action, too.

“We’re getting that brain to work a little bit to help us wake up for our day,” Spencer says while leading single arm, single leg extensions. “I know we’re all busy multitaskers, so starting your day with a little multitasking in your body, you can’t go wrong.”

Other moves such as a “double rainbow,” which involves tapping opposite corners of your mat with your extended arm and leg while on hands and knees, and squat to lunges, continue the multitasking action.

Of course, if that’s a bit too much so early in the day, Spencer includes plenty of modifications that take the “rub your tummy and pat your head” factor out of the Pilates equation. Overall, it’s a workout that will get your blood pumping, your brain working, your spine lengthening, and your muscles awakening. Good morning, sunshine! We know you can handle it.