The TV presenter has a rigorous fitness routine – including burpees, cycling and lots of weights – but there’s only one form of training that she doesn’t have to talk herself into
Maya Jama swears by one low-intensity exercise that uses ‘every single muscle’ in the body without leaving you ‘drenched with sweat’. The 30-year-old TV presenter, who recently set off to film a new series of Love Island: All Stars, previously shed light on her rigorous fitness routine.
Press-ups, burpees, cycling and a lot of weights are all part of her regular workouts, but there’s only one form of training that she doesn’t have to talk herself into doing. You may be surprised to know that such an exercise is Pilates, involving a series 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!” Although Pilates is often confused with yoga, the latter is generally slower and focused on holding positions, while Pilates is more about muscle toning and core strength.
Taking part in Pilates is especially beneficial for individuals looking to lose weight or tone up, though it may help in the recovery of certain health problems too. Arthritis, scoliosis and even back pain are among the conditions that certain Pilates-style workouts are recommended for, with the NHS sharing several example tutorials on its website.
Though, experts at the health authority assert that ‘more research is needed’ on the topic and it’s worth speaking to a GP 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.”
Beyond its physical perks, Maya previously told Stylist that working out is very important for her own mental health too. 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 certainly isn’t alone in this either. Further advice from Mayo Clinic also suggests that Pilates is associated with better 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.”