Learn about Pilates

For anyone with even a remote interest in Pilates, the equipment used for training is extremely interesting. With exciting names like the Reformer and the Cadillac, how could one not be interested? While there are literally dozens of individual pieces of equipment and props for use in Pilates training, we will be focusing on two of the more popular ones.

The idea for the Reformer was born when the founder of the Pilates system, Joseph Pilates, was interned in England during the First World War. He spent much of his internment training investigators from Scotland Yard in the Pilates method, and working to find ways to help rehabilitate bed-ridden patients suffering from the 1918 influenza epidemic. The first prototype was actually created using bits and pieces of old hospital beds.

The Reformer is comprised of a series of springs attached to a sliding platform supported by a frame. In some ways, it is very similar to rowing machine. The platform can be moved in two ways; by pulling on the pulleys, or by pushing off of the foot bar. It can be challenging for some people to get used to the sensation of moving the platform and maintaining balance at the same time. There are dozen of exercises that can be performed on this piece of equipment, but please consult a professional instructor before attempting these exercises on your own.

The Cadillac is another popular piece of Pilates training equipment. It has been said that the Cadillac resembles some form of medieval torture equipment, and has earned the nickname of “the rack”. Be not afraid. The Cadillac is one of the most ingenious and effective types of fitness equipment ever designed. It has a platform and posts on each of the four corners. It is not unlike a bed, in some ways. The corner posts support various levers and pulleys, which provide resistance during your workout.

Joseph Pilates, and his legion of protgs, have designed well over 80 individual exercises that can be performed on the Cadillac. Each group of exercises is designed to focus on a specific group of muscles. Many of the exercises have a particular focus on developing core strength in the abdominal region. As with other types of exercise equipment, do not attempt to use the Cadillac without a proper demonstration from a certified professional.


About the author:

Natalie Brown is a certified Pilates instructor from Canada. When she is not consumed with her busy class schedule, she writes for http://www.pilatesinsight.com – a site that offers information about pilates equipment like the Reformer and the Cadillac.

Written By: Natalie Brown

Body Harmonics Pilates, located in Toronto, Canada is an internationally recognized leader in Pilates training and instruction. It was founded in 1996 by Margot McKinnon, a well respected leader in the Canadian health and fitness industry. What distinguishes Body Harmonics from other studios is that it also functions as a Pilates teacher training facility. The primary motivation behind the establishment of Body Harmonics was to make Pilates accessible to everyone, and to train the next generation of teachers in the best practices available.

Body Harmonics has three main areas of specialization; Pilates for general health and wellbeing, post-rehabilitative exercise, and performance enhancements for athletes and dancers. They offer over 40 courses to new and experienced students and teachers alike. They offer three levels of Mat training, and extensive workshops dedicated to individual pieces of equipment such as the Reformer and the Cadillac. Body Harmonics has trained Pilates instructors from all around the world, and remains one the best facilities of its kind in Canada and beyond.

Studio director, Margot McKinnon, has a long and proven track record as an educator and a top-notch Pilates instructor. She has worked as a Pilates instructor since 1994, when she earned her first certification. She became a Master Teacher Trainer for The Pilates Method in 1996, and shortly thereafter launched her company. She has had the benefit of training and developing relationships with some the best and brightest mind in her industry. Margot is renowned for her inspiring teaching style, and her intricate knowledge of the theory behind the practice of Pilates.

Aside from the standard courses offered at Body Harmonics, there are also a number of specialized courses designed for people that might not associate Pilates training with other sports. Body Harmonics offers courses of particular interest to golfers, skiers, runners and rowers. They also offer courses for other health care practitioners, such as physiotherapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. Regardless of your area of specialization, there is no doubt that you can benefit from the mind/body connection you will make at Body Harmonics. If you are serious about Pilates and you are considering professional certification, take some time to learn more about Body Harmonics.


About the author:

Natalie Brown is a history student and Pilates enthusiast. When she is not consumed with her studies, she likes to stretch and stuff. She also writes for pilatesinsight.com – a site that offers information about Pilates, Pilates Equipment, Pilates Chairs and more.

Written By: Natalie Brown

1. Feel younger – “days go by so quickly”, “time flyes”, Do you find youself thinking and feeling this way? Slow down take some time to yourself to feel younger.

2. Less stressed – Do you ever feel like you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulder? Let me show you how to release some of the burden and give it to someone else.

3. More rejuvenated – Do you ever feel sluggish do to lack of sleep or energy? Re-energize with some soothing music, a good nights sleep and a calming voice to encourage you to move very sutlely.

4. Stand taller – Do you feel like you have lost height even from when you first started your day? Let Pilates encourage your body to build the strength and relaxation into your body to assist with standing taller.

5. Walk with the grace of a dancer – Ever notice the way you are walking? Would you like to walk with ease and economy? Pilates can relieve pain in the hips and legs to support your body and walk easier.

6. Toned body – Would you like your pants to fit a little looser? Pilates will help move things in a way to assist with your toning goals.

7. Focused mind – Would you like to do more of the things you like? Pilates encourages you to be in the now and will calm the brain so you can focus on one thing at a time.

Sharon says, “after 3 weeks of doing Pilates with Karen my shoulders feel great.”

Kevin says “after 6 weeks of Pilates I am able to walk with no cane. I have MS and have found Pilates of great benefit.”

“I like Pilates. I think you do an awesome job! I like that you’re able to help us adapt to the challenges we have.You’re very encouraging with us beginners. I plan to rejoin when the 12 wks. are up.
Thanks!” Grace

Two seniors upon visiting their doctors for their annual visit were told they have increased 1″ in height from doing Pilates.

Can you imagine the experience of moving your body to relaxing music in a subtle way. Image feeling taller, more relaxed, younger, rejuvenated, sharp mind and walk with the grace of a dancer.

All you have to do is decide to feel this way. Make the choice to have your body feel great! Soft soothing music, soft voice inspiring you to move in subtle ways to release a days worth of stress. Decide to feel the way you felt as a youngster or better. Decide to commit about 18-20 minutes of your time when you come home from work or play to listen and be guided through movement.


About the Author

Enjoys health and wellness, using the Pilates method. Produced 2 Pilates for relaxation video’s as well as a downloadable MP3. www.stretchyourlife.com

Written By: Karen Toth

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,

Written By: Harriet Spinzer