Pilates & You

If you are looking for an exercise program that will help you build core strength, flexibility, and balance, then look no further than Pilates

Pilates is a wonderful system of exercise and strength training developed by Joseph Pilates. In recent years, it has become one of the most popular exercise systems in the world. Pilates studios have opened in cities all over America and beyond. Pilates training consists of over 500 individual exercises, all designed to help the individual develop core strength, flexibility, and balance.

There is also a system of philosophy that is integral to Pilates practice, known as mind/body fitness. It is very similar to Yoga or Tai Chi, in that it promotes a system of overall wellness based upon developing health from the inside-out. The purpose is to learn how to develop one’s mental ability in order to effectively control movement, and therefore achieve balance in body and mind.

The Pilates system teaches that effective exercise is based upon quality and not quantity. Each of the exercises is designed to focus on a core set of muscles. Most of the movements are performed slowly and with focused intent. Students are taught to view their bodies as integrated systems comprised of interrelated parts. In the practice of Pilates, focus is placed on coordinating muscles and improving joint flexibility. Pilates teaches the individual to work with their body, as opposed to against it.

Pilates exercise can benefit most anyone. Exercise can be adapted to accommodate people, regardless of their current physical state. Most students begin with an introductory mat work course. This course can be done in private, semi-private, or group classes. As the student progresses, exercises become more focused and advanced. There are also a number of equipment classes available for advanced students. These classes teach the proper use of equipment such as the Reformer or the Cadillac.

If you are looking for an exercise program that will help you build core strength, flexibility, and balance, then look no further than Pilates. People of all ages and physical conditions can benefit from these exercises. Pilates has helped countless people achieve balance in their lives. It comes highly recommended by physical therapists, athletic trainers, and fitness experts as a highly effective training and rehabilitation method. The future of your health is now.

About The Author

Harriet Spinzer is a history student and Pilates enthusiast. When she is not consumed with her studies, she likes to stretch and stuff. When she is not tangled up in her "Reformer" she likes to write freelance articles for websites such as pilatesinsight.com - an independent Pilates resource with information about Pilates Certification, Treadmills, The Pilates Studio, and more.

Free Pilates Report

To learn more about Pilates get my FREE Report titled: "Your True Age Lies Not In How Old You Are, But By The Degree Of Natural And Normal Flexibility Of Your Spine."

After reading the report you will:

Understand the 6 principles of the Pilates method
Read excerpts in Joe s own words from his 1934 book titled "Health"
Have an insight into the life of a man that was 5 decades ahead of his time

Pilates Report

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Yoga has been shown to alleviate many conditions commonly experienced during pregnancy, such as back pain, sciatica, swelling and heartburn. Prenatal Yoga in particular focuses specifically on the pregnant woman's needs, allowing expectant mothers to learn breathing techniques and postures that help sooth the challenges of pregnancy. By helping expectant mothers build strength, focus and flexibility through a gentle practice, Forrest Pilates' prenatal yoga classes prepare expectant mothers for both delivery and postpartum recuperation. At the same time, this serene group experience also cultivates a deeper awareness and joy at the natural changes that occur in the body during these nine months. Designed especially for the pregnant woman, our prenatal yoga classes combine active, flowing poses with restorative poses that relax and re-energize the body, mind and spirit. Moms-to-be can interact with one another and benefit from a supportive community energy, while also being reminded to turn their attention inward and deepen their connection with their bodies during this magical time. Whether you are a veteran yogi looking to modify your current practice or a first-timer, Forrest Pilates' prenatal yoga classes foster a sense of confidence in your body and your ability to give birth, as well as trust in the inherent wisdom of the female anatomy. Benefits of Prenatal Yoga: The strength developed through yoga is needed in the lower body to carry the added weight of pregnancy. Post-pregnancy, upper body strength is required to hold and care for your baby. Prenatal yoga strengthens the muscles that support the weight of the uterus, taking pressure off the lower back and thereby relieving or helping you avoid pain. Inversion poses help create space in the pelvis, which reduces irritation of the hip joints. Yoga’s focus on the breath is particularly relevant during pregnancy. Regular practitioners will likely find it easier to learn Lamaze or breathing techniques, and breath control is a valuable pain reduction tool during labor. The balancing poses in prenatal yoga assist pregnant women in adjusting to the natural shift in their body's center of gravity.