Learn about Pilates

You’ve probably been hearing about “core” exercises and Pilates for quite a while and are probably doing it once to thrice a week, you’ve probably used different DVD’s, different styles techniques and different equipment just to get that great body that everybody is drooling about. Hearing of all this, you’ve probably heard of the Ever present Pilates Ring, the non bulky, and cheaper alternative to all of those bulky machines.

The Pilates ring of course, as its name says, is used in the practice of Pilates, specifically for Winsor Pilates. Winsor Pilates makes use of low intensity workouts that work on the “core” of the body. By core it means the muscles in the abdomen, back and pelvis. As these are low intensity, these can be done even by those who are of weak health status. But just because it is low intensity doesn’t mean it’ll take a long time for results, or won’t have results, in fact Winsor Pilates promise results in a month, when it is used three days a week. Wisnor Pilates is distributed on DVDs.

A Pilates ring however, aside from being used to tone the buttocks and the abdominal and pelvic muscles can also be used to specifically target muscles in the leg, pecs, lats, triceps and biceps. It is an all around exercise accessory that everyone should have. To change position, you can reposition the ring in either your arms or your legs, whatever location it is that you want to tone and improve, and basically and squeezing it. But there is more to a Pilates ring than merely squeezing; anything done wrongly can cause injury, especially when exercising, so before you start, try to consult a certified Pilates instructor.

Pilates rings also have different brand names, and depending on the manufacturer, different resistances. Some manufacturers offer a line of different resistances; some offer just one line with one resistance. It is suggested that you get those that have varied resistances so that you’re your body has been used and toned at a certain level; you can further increase your workout by increasing the resistance of the Pilates ring. Some rings have a stronger resistance for a harder workout; some have lighter resistance for a lighter workout. Just remember, make sure that you can take the resistance before rushing into it. Anything, no matter how foolproof can be dangerous if used incorrectly, in short, you might get injured if you use too much resistance. Again, try to consult a certified Pilates instructor before changing resistances.

Pilates rings, boast of foam padded grips for the comfort of the user, these are the parts that make actual contact with the part of the body, making the exercise more comfortable than if done without one. Pilates rings are made of lightweight material, and may be brought with you anywhere, to the gym or at home or during travel.

The Pilates ring is only one of the few accessories, or if you must, equipment that Winsor Pilates incorporates into its program for a better workout. However, you don’t really need a Pilates program to be able to use a Pilates ring. Although the ring was made especially for this program, the Pilates ring itself can be incorporated into any other type of exercise program that you currently have, providing that you consult with your instructor.

About the author:

Gabae Weight Loss – The premiere free weight loss publication on the web. Updated daily with fresh feature packed articles.

Written By: Michael Bens

At one time, Pilates was a specialized form of exercise limited to a handful of professional practitioners. In recent times, Pilates has become one of the biggest exercise fads in America. Almost every town and city across this great country has a professional Pilates studio, staffed by certified instructors. Pilates, however, is not just another passing fad. Pilates is here to stay.

Practitioners of Pilates can experience countless benefits including improved posture, flexibility, and balance. This presents a remarkable opportunity for an aging population to perform a series of exercises that are both safe and effective. According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the stretching and strengthening of core muscles through the practice of Pilates is an effective strategy for combating the effects of aging.

Aside from the benefits noted above, Pilates can also help with relief from stress and mental tension. It can also have a direct impact on maintaining strength and range of motion, both of which are especially important for our aging populace. Studies have shown that Pilates can also provide relief from back pain and other physical injuries, which are often a primary cause of pain and discomfort.

The wonderful thing about Pilates, and the reason it is so effective for people getting on in age, is that it is a highly effective form of soft exercise. Pilates can be performed at a pace dictated by the strength and stamina of the individual. It is not goal driven, in the way that traditional weight training or body building is. With Pilates, the effectiveness of the exercise is determined by the overall impact on the health of the practitioner. Pilates is all about achieving long term, tangible results.

The key to the effective practice of Pilates is to make the connection between mind and body. Concentration plays a significant role in Pilates. One of the core principles of Pilates is to establish control of the body through discipline and focused thought. Much like Yoga, controlled breathing plays a pivotal role in achieving results in Pilates. Pilates teaches a form of breathing called Lateral Breathing. This is performed by inhaling deeply through one’s nose, and allowing the inhaled air to expand one’s ribcage. This form of breathing is also called Thoracic Breathing.

Pilates is a highly effective approach to maintaining health and vitality, regardless of one’s age or stage in life. While the practice of Pilates is beneficial for many people, it is especially important for our aging population. Aging individuals often lose control of their coordination and muscles, and this can lead to a sense of frustration and mental anguish for people that have grown accustomed to their sense of independence. Pilates can provide people with the tools and techniques they need to age with dignity and a sense of well being. Pilates isn’t for everyone, but it could be ideal for you.


About the Author:

Natalie Brown is a certified Pilates instructor. When she is not stretching and stuff, she writes for http://www.pilatesinsight.com a wonderful online magazine with information about Pilates training, Pilates equipment, Pilates DVD’s and more.

Written By: Natalie Brown