You might be used to seeing Phil Heath pumping massive weights in that gym. The seven-time Mr. Olympia has maintained his physique even though he hasn’t competed in years. However, you might not guess that Phil Heath is also a massive fan of Pilates. The bodybuilding icon shared a clip of himself practicing the discipline earlier.

The bodybuilder uploaded a clip on Instagram where he was on a contraption commonly used in Pilates gyms. The former Mr. Olympia was performing a movement that focused on the core. However, while writing about the results of practicing Pilates in the caption, Heath made a surprising comment.

Phil Heath got better results than bodybuilding?

The champion bodybuilder crafted his physique for decades in the gym. Heath’s genetics and dedication earned him seven Mr. Olympia titles and the nickname The Gift. However, the bodybuilding icon said, “My abs have never been better,” in the caption. Heath even showed off his abs post-pilates in the clips.

Nevertheless, it was only a glimpse, and we’ll have to take the former champion’s word for it. In the video, Heath did what looked like a cross between leg press and crunches. The Gift did the movement while lying down on the contraption called a reformer. The Reformer is a spring-based machine that offers resistance to various Pilates movements.

Pilates is a low-impact fitness approach that focuses on complex movements, unlike traditional weight training. These movements require a person to focus to execute them properly. It also improves balance while strengthening muscles. Combined with mental health benefits, the mind-body exercise is certainly helping Phil Heath. However, bodybuilding also has similar benefits.

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The mental benefits of working out

Whether it’s Pilates or a workout session in the gym, exercising has mental health benefits. Extensive research has shown that bodybuilding and strength training, in general, help alleviate signs of depression and anxiety. Even those who suffer from depression have shown improvements after hopping onto a routine of regular exercise.

Not just bodybuilding or Pilates but other forms of aerobic exercise like jogging, cycling, swimming, and even dancing have helped people reduce stress and depression. According to a 2006 study, these improvements happen because of an increase in blood circulation to the brain.

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While Phil Heath has lifted massive weights for decades, his latest reel shows that even low-impact workouts like Pilates can show results. Would you be willing to try Pilates? Tell us in the comments.