| Pilates is based on 6 main principles; Control, | | | | at specialized studios but also at gyms, health clubs, |
| Breathing, Concentration, Precision, Centering and | | | | spas, rehabilitation clinics, senior facilities and |
| Flow. With regular Pilates workouts the benefits you | | | | community centers around the world. |
| can expect are to develop strength and mobility by | | | | Many exercises can be performed in a reclining or |
| performing breath and movement with precision and | | | | sitting position on a mat or carpet with literally |
| control, enabling your body to move the muscles, | | | | hundreds of beginner to advanced moves available in |
| joints and bones in the most efficient way. | | | | the repertoire for a well-rounded workout on the |
| In addition to muscle toning, stretching and relaxation, | | | | floor. |
| Pilates develops core abdominal strength, so that | | | | For those a little more advanced there is highly |
| whatever the activity is, the skeleton is supported | | | | specialized equipment that can be graduated to as |
| and the spine is protected. Pilates techniques work | | | | your level of strength and mobility progress. There |
| deep abdominal muscles to provide a "powerhouse" | | | | are five major pieces of specialized Pilates equipment. |
| of strength to support the spine. If you are bulky in | | | | Some Pilates equipment, like the classic Pilates Circles, |
| certain muscle groups, it is likely that they will get | | | | offer spring resistance, others like the Pilates Spine |
| leaner as you do Pilates, without losing any strength | | | | Supporter, offer support , and a variety of unique |
| because Pilates is known for developing long, lean | | | | exercises for the total body can be performed on |
| balanced muscles. | | | | each piece. Again, a purely mat-based routine is an |
| Regular practice (20 minutes 2-4 times per week) will | | | | authentic and effective Pilates workout by itself, but |
| help you to gain flexibility and build strength, while | | | | if you have the opportunity to explore some Pilates |
| improving your balance and coordination and you'll see | | | | equipment under the guidance of a trained |
| tangible results in about one month. If your goal is to | | | | professional, I highly recommend you do so! |
| lose weight and tone adding biking, swimming or the | | | | There is no shortage of information available to you |
| elliptical trainer (or a combination) with Pilates is a | | | | from DVD's, Books, Equipment and Clothing. |
| must. Pilates helps shape and tone muscles and will | | | | If you are looking for a low impact way to stay in |
| get you standing taller, feeling stronger, and will give | | | | shape and help sculpt your body, then Pilates may be |
| you a flatter belly. With regular workouts you will | | | | the right fit for you. With regular Pilates workouts |
| change the shape of your body. | | | | you will experience the benefits of maintaining a |
| Because of its effectiveness, this exercise system | | | | healthy, well balanced body. As with any lifestyle |
| became popular as a conditioning routine for athletes, | | | | change, you should start by making an appointment |
| actors, and models as well. As Pilates grows in | | | | with your primary healthcare provider to be cleared |
| popularity, Pilates classes are being offered not only | | | | for any exercise program. |