Learn about Pilates » exercise systems

How to Find the Best Pilates Instructor in Town

admin — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 14:29:40 +0000

The Pilates Method of body conditioning, which strengthens both the body and mind, has been around since the 1920s, but in just the past couple of years, interest in the method has grown by leaps and bounds. As a result, so have the number of instructors. But according to Kevin Bowen, co-founder of the Miami, Fla., based Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), the national not-for-profit trade association of Pilates professionals, not all of them are qualified to teach Pilates.

The Pilates Method is safely taught only by teachers comprehensively trained in the Pilates Method and the use of Pilates equipment, both of which differ significantly from other exercise systems, says Bowen.

Developed in the 1920s by German-born Joseph and Clara Pilates, the Pilates Method is an exercise system that focuses on precise, controlled movements and breathing, using a special spring-driven apparatus. Pilates training improves strength, balance, posture, and flexibility. It also helps to achieve elongation of muscles. Among the first to use the Pilates Method were dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine. Today, many athletes use it as well. They include basketball star Jason Kidd and figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi.

To help you choose the safest Pilates alternative, the Pilates Method Alliance recommends the following guidelines for evaluation of Pilates instructors:

* Make sure the Pilates studio, gym or health club you choose has at least one comprehensively trained Pilates teacher on staff at all times when the facility is open for business.

* If you choose a studio with Pilates equipment for private lessons, you should receive a comprehensive physical assessment and initial training session prior to beginning the Pilates program. The assessment should include your personal fitness goals and medical history, including injuries, plus a clear, measurable assessment of your muscular strengths, weaknesses and imbalances.

* If you choose a group class with Pilates equipment, the PMA recommends there be no more than six participants per comprehensively trained instructor. Participants should receive physical assessments first, as above, and constant supervision while using equipment. Drop-ins should be prohibited without appropriate screening.

* For Pilates mat classes, the PMA recommends that no more than 10 to 12 participants are assigned to one comprehensively trained teacher. Classes should be defined with appropriate levels for the clientele and should include mandatory pre-screening for health related issues, as above.

The PMA also recommends that all programs teaching the Pilates Method of exercise provide the following information to clients:

* The names and various parts of the Pilates apparatus.

* The names of each Pilates exercise.

* The appropriate sequencing of the exercises, repetitions, and use of resistance.

* The appropriate set-up of the Pilates apparatus for each exercise, including all possible safety issues.

* Proper spotting and verbal cuing techniques for each exercise.

* The components of each exercise.

* The objectives of each exercise.

* The design of the clients specific program. Why a particular apparatus is used for a particular exercise.

* How to effectively modify, break down and/or adapt an exercise for your personal Pilates regimen.

The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is the international, not-for-profit professional association dedicated to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. The PMAs mission is to protect the public by establishing certification and continuing education standards for Pilates professionals.

About the author:

Contact www.pilatesmethodalliance.org to find a trained Pilates teacher in your area.

Courtesy of ARA Content

Written By: ARA

Winsor Pilates, a Great Addition to Your Exercise Routine

admin — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 12:52:19 +0000

If you turn on the television after midnight you’ll notice that the infomercials for diets, fitness equipment and exercise tapes are becoming more and more popular. Do any of these systems really deliver what they promise? Winsor Pilates is one of the many exercise systems advertised through infomercials, and one of the biggest sellers. With celebrity endorsements from the likes of Daisy Fuentes and Madonna, it’s hard to resist the infomercial and not pick up the phone.

Pilates was developed as a rehabilitative program for injured dancers by Joseph Pilates. The basic premise is that by strengthening the core muscles and increasing flexibility the body will become toned and more coordinated. Dancers have used the system for years, and it is now catching on with the rest of the fitness community. Most users report increased flexibility, coordination, a lengthening of muscles and a much stronger “core”.

The floor exercises featured in the tapes all work together to strengthen the abdominal muscles and back, called the “core” in this system. Each movement involves these important muscle groups, and the results are fantastic. Not only do the abdominal muscles become more toned, but the entire midsection is strengthened. The results are less likelihood of injury and increased performance in other fitness activities. A stronger back is a less painful back. The pilates moves are also good for toning the legs and buttocks.

The moves are slow and deliberate, requiring not only physical exertion but concentration as well. Ensuring that you are performing the moves correctly actively involves the mind, causing us to focus on the movements of our bodies. This inevitably reduces stress. In this way, pilates is similar to yoga. Many users report feeling refreshed and relaxed after the workout, not tired.

Mari Winsor’s presentation of the pilates system is excellent. She is careful to explain each move in great detail so that the beginner can follow along and do the movements in proper form. Most beginners will be discouraged after their first session, but after the second or third the movements will not seem so difficult.

The exercises are useful and effective for core strengthening. You won’t see pounds just melt away, however, unless you combine the workouts with a sensible eating plan. Mari includes one for your reference, but you can use this system with the weight loss program you’re already on to help accelerate results.

Of course, you may want to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program. However, Winsor Pilates is non-aerobic but effective in toning and strengthening the core of your body and may help you lose inches as well. Winsor Pilates is well worth a try.

About the Author

Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.pilatesreviews.info a website specialized on Winsor Pilates, resources and articles. This site provides updated information on Winsor Pilates. For more info visit his site: Winsor Pilates

Written By: Jay Moncliff

Pilates and You

admin — Sat, 04 Nov 2006 12:21:04 +0000

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