Pilates flex-full Demonstration
www.exyu-fitness.com
By: lazic
Pilates Ring Benefits
If you're looking for a good workout without having to store a bulky machine you'll want to try a Pilates ring.
With today’s society becoming more and more body-conscious, people are scrambling for gym memberships and looking to sign up for various workout regimens. However, there are some who wish to exercise in the privacy of their own home, but do not want to have to buy expensive equipment. Thus, an excellent and simple way to reduce stress and tone muscles at the same time is to purchase a Pilates ring.
Those who are familiar with the endurance bands that resemble jump ropes will note that the Pilates ring is along the same idea. It is a stretchable rubber circle that is on average about 14 inches in diameter. It can, however, come in slightly smaller or larger diameters, depending on what muscles are to be strengthened.
 Pilates Super Ring by Bally Total Fitness Dia 12 in.  US $5.99
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 Winsor Pilates Body Sculpting Ring and Workout DVD US $7.99
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 Pilates Ring - Light Resistance US $16.49
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 Cap Barbell 1 Pair Pilates Arm Rings US $14.99
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 PILATES RESISTANCE RING - DOUBLE HANDLE 14in PLUS US $.99
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 PILATES RESISTANCE RING - DOUBLE HANDLE 14in PLUS US $2.99
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 AeroMAT Deluxe Pilates Ring in Purple US $27.95
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 WINSOR PILATES RESISTANCE RING US $2.25
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 PILATES RESISTANCE RING - DOUBLE HANDLE 14in PLUS US $2.99
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 Pilates Ring PILATES MAGIC Fitness Circle 14in PLUS US $4.99
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The Pilates ring was designed to sculpt core muscles which include the abdominal, the pelvic floor, and the buttocks. The key to sculpting the core lies in tightening them through endurance stretching, and the Pilates ring is a safe way to accomplish this.
An added bonus of the Pilates ring is that it can tone not just the core muscles but other hard-to-tone muscles in the legs. An example of an exercise in which leg muscles are tightened is when one lies down on a mat and places the equipment around their ankles and, lifts their legs up and down gradually to feel the resistance.
Arm muscles are also something that many people want to tone, and a Pilates ring can help with that also. An exercise that people can do that tightens their arms is one in which, in a standing position, the arms are raised straight over the head with the ring around the wrists and the arms slightly widened.
As with any other exercise equipment, one should use the Pilates ring in a safe manner by not trying to strain the muscles too hard, which can lead to injury. Also, these rings come in different resistance types, so it is best to start at the lowest resistance level and build up gradually. Prices vary according to the size, resistance, place of purchase and manufacturer. Have a look at the examples on this page for some ideas of what is available.
Pilates Core Workout
A free online exercise and fitness Pilates total abs and core workout video you can do in five minutes! This is the best Pilates core workout video available on YouTube. It's also the hardest! Special Thanks to Paula @ www.bpilatesstudio.com.
By: diethealth
The Pilates Performer Range of Equipment
Pilates and yoga are great ways to keep in shape both mentally and physically. These simple yet extremely powerful and efficient ways to keep healthy have helped to create a keen interest in alternative medicine, as well as philosophies of life and way of living that yoga and Pilates advocate.
Though both these workout styles have totally different backgrounds, their philosophy and style of promoting and maintaining the overall fitness of the mind and body are almost the same. Both advocate concentration on inner happiness rather than external stimuli; both advocate a certain discipline in one’s life style with regard diet and exercise; both promote meditation as a way to happiness and contentment.
 Stamina The Stand for Pilates Premier Performer 3 cord US $129.00
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 Stamina The Stand for Pilates Premier Performer 4 cord US $129.00
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 AERO PILATES performer 298 brand new no box US $235.00
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 Stamina Aero Pilates 296 Performer Station w/ Mat & DVD US $399.99
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 Stamina Aero Pilates Performer 286 w/o Rebounder US $249.99
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 Pilates Performer by Stamina US $49.00
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 PILATES PERFORMER REFORMER 4500 JP US $79.00
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 New Aero Pilates Deluxe Anniv. Performer with Rebounder US $275.00
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 Pilates Performer- 298- with Rebounder +Workout CD US $347.50
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 PILATES PERFORMER 55-4300 - BY STAMINA US $99.99
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There is a slight deviation in Pilates though. While yoga does not need any equipment at all, leaving out a mat and maybe a towel to wipe out the sweat; the Pilates needs very sophisticated, made for certain purposes machines. Initially, these moves were done with the help of springs and ropes whereby the person practicing Pilates would learn to stretch and exercise with the help of such props. Today, these are substituted quite successfully by equipment such as Pilates performer.
The Pilates performer is not one piece of equipment but rather, a series, which can be used and adjusted to as many as 50 different Pilates workouts. Pilates works on the principle of maintaining total body balance and its workouts consist of strengthening the muscles of the body towards this end. The market answered to the great demand for these types of exercises and came out with the advanced model of a Pilates performer.
With this machine, one can work as a total beginner as well as an expert. Most of the Pilates performer machines are foldable which solves the problem of their storage. They also come with different levels of elastic chords for the different types of exercises, as well as an adjustable headrest and soft shoulder pads (made of foam) for more comfort.
The beauty of the Pilates performer is that in spite of all the qualitative inputs it offers, it is still very much within a reasonable budget. This is why it has found its way into the homes and Pilates studios of many people and grows increasingly popular.
The Advantages of Pilates Videos
Pilates is an exercise technique invented by Joseph Pilates, a German National, who when he was arrested in France during the first world war for being an enemy alien, invented a low resistance type of exercise which was later nameed after him. Joseph Pilates used springs from beds to make the first machine for his workouts. He later moved to The United States and opened his own Studio. Ever since then Pilates has become increasingly popular and now there are a variety of Pilates videos that teach you at home rather than at a studio.
 FLATTEN YOUR BELLY WITH PILATES - VHS VIDEO US $5.47
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 DENISE AUSTIN Exercise Video PILATES MAT Workout US $.99
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First of all the advantage of any Pilates video is its adaptability. You can do it anywhere that has a DVD player and a television. Especially for those people who don't like going to the gym, the video or DVD is really in improvement for those that want to exercise in the comfort of their own home.
The disadvantages however, are its lack of a tangible instructor. The instructions given on the DVD can hardly be enough of a substitute for an actual certified Pilates instructor. All the troubles, all the questions and the probable injuries cannot all be covered by a single video. Only a real instructor can do that.
So if you really want to use a Pilates videos at home, it is advisable to first consult with an instructor, or probably take gym Pilates classes, just to orient yourself with the procedure. Then go ahead to practice at home.
Winsor Pilates is one of the derivations of this form of exercise that can be found on video. IT is a form, modified by Mari Winsor and claims to give results in 1 month, provided that you use it three times a week. Most people who have used it actually claim that it gives results in just two weeks.
Winsor Pilates is popular, because, like other Pilates Videos it can be done in one's own home. One satisfied user, after using following it intermittently for 2 years, testifies to a healthier core, and higher body strength, although no weight loss was observable.
The other good thing about Pilates videos is that, as you progress, you tend to memorize all the routines as you go. So when you've memorized all the routines, you don't really have to strain you neck so much by looking at the TV. They are also very economic. You won't have to pay monthly payments or gym memberships. All you need is the video and you can use it for as long as you want, or until you want to move on to another form.
Most Pilates videos and exercises are low intensity. You can't expect anything too strenuous from something that can be done for physical rehabilitation! For most people, low intensity workouts with great results is a great deal.
Intro to the Pilates Mat
Most Pilates workouts involve mat work of some sort which can be considered to be the cornerstone of Pilates exercises. It is possible for numerous exercises as well as many modifications to be performed either in group sessions or in personal sessions on the mat. The best Pilates mat will be thick and durable and can be used in gyms, homes or studios as it is mostly designed for protecting and cushioning the spine throughout the mat work routines.
 NIP Yoga Pilates mat bag carrier strap ~~ PINK FLORAL US $5.99
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 YOGA AND PILATES FITNESS KITS - MAT, BLOCKS, 6' STRAP US $4.99
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 Strap Sling for Yoga Pilates NO MAT bag ~~NIP~~ FOREST US $4.99
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 OM Yoga Mat Cotton Yogi Mat Purple Black 72x24 Pilates US $19.99
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 Premium Yoga / Pilates Mat (Brand New) - FREE SHIPPING US $12.00
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DENISE AUSTIN Exercise Video PILATES MAT Workout US $.99
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Types of Pilates Mats
The thicker style Pilates mats are ideal for Pilates exercises. They should also have ribbed, closed cell structures to impart a soft touch to the user as well as provide firm support.
Pilates mats come in a variety of styles and in order to get the best ones, you should check out their sizes, thicknesses, densities, colors, textures as well as materials used in order to get the best buy for you. Typical prices for a Pilates mat ranges from US$25 to US$45. If you want to carry the mat to different locations make sure that it has attached handles and can be folded and that the texture is light.
The Pilates Express Mat is much thicker than a yoga mat and provides ample protection to the spine. It is made of Velcro straps that enable an individual to roll and go and is the ideal mat for toting to the gym or studio. Its high quality closed cell foam allows the individual to experience maximum as well as optimized comfort. In addition, it is also very durable. This Pilates mat is available in green and blue colors.
Another useful Pilates mat is the club quality mat that can easily be rolled and is ideal for using in multi-use facilities. The Deluxe Pilates mat is made of closed-cell foam which provides plenty of comfort to the user and can also withstand repeated use.
There is also the Professional Raised Mat which is can be used in studios and has dense foam padding plus a surface that supports the individual and also gives proprioceptive feedback.
It is available in many colors and can be customized to suit the facility’s design. You can create a special look using any of the 75 custom colors and the price is very affordable as well.
The Pilates Workout Ball – essential to Your Pilates Routines
Pilates is a relatively simple exercise routine that you can do at home on your own or in classes or in a gym or fitness center. Certain pieces of equipment are considered to be essential to any Pilates routine, however, no matter where you are exercising. One such piece of Pilates equipment is the Pilates workout ball.
 BENDER BALL PILATES DVD BENDER METHOD OF PILATES NEW !! US $.99
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 Fitness Sports Gym Body Pilates Exercise Ball 75CM US $12.90
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 Workout DVD Lot Bender Ball- Weight Watcher- Pilates US $5.74
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 Gold's Gym 65cm Stay Ball w/ DVD Pilates Exercise NEW US $.99 |
The Pilates workout ball is important primarily because it is a piece of exercise equipment which is used in many of the Pilates routines helping with a variety of factors. Using the Pilates workout ball helps you gain better balance, for example, as well as helping you increase the intensity of your routine overall.
Where to Purchase a Pilates Workout Ball
If you are wondering where you can go to purchase this ball then rest assured that there are many options available to you.
Basically you should be able to find a selection of these balls at any store that sells other forms of Pilates equipment since they are a basic requirement. If you can’t find a Pilates workout ball locally then a good idea is to go into your local gym and ask a professional where they would recommend.
There is also the internet of course which can be used to conduct research to find out what types of Pilates balls are available and how they differ in price, size etc.
You could also use the internet to determine where the closest store to you is so that you can go there to make your purchase or simply buy your Pilates ball online.
Just remember to not get frustrated if you cannot find anything at first because there truly are limitless options in regards to where you can go. However, it may be more difficult to find a suitable store in your area especially if you live in a really small town, for instance.
Even before spending cash in a shop why not ask your family and friends because exercise equipment is often bought and discarded. Perhaps one of them already has a Pilates workout ball and don’t use it. Or maybe they can give you some advice on where they bought theirs and whether or not they ar happy with their choice.
No matter where you obtain your Pilates workout ball now you understand the importance of this simple piece of equipment you can get out there and be ready to start. And soon you will learn how incredibly rewarding your Pilates workouts can be.
Introduction to Pilates
If you are looking for an exercise routine that will burn fat while helping you create a longer, leaner physique consider pilates. The program is design to help increase your strength and flexibility as well as burning calories. This approach to exercise is one of the best ways to start on the road to good health.
Many personal trainers suggest using some sort of weight resistance when trying to burn fat. The weight helps your body to build muscle. That muscle actually burns calories even when you are at rest. Building a lean muscle mass is the key to turning your body into a fat-burning machine.
However, some of us who have tried adding weight to our workout routines find ourselves feeling stiff and tight. We lose flexibility and range of motion when we work out with weights too much.
Pilates is designed to stretch and lengthen the muscles of the body. You will swear that you have grown an inch in height after a few weeks of working out to pilates DVD’s on a regular basis. I felt longer and leaner after spending a few dedicated weeks practising my workout.
While strength training is still a great way to stay in shape and to build bone mass it does require some balance. Pilates helps to create a balance for you. The weight exercises tighten and shorten muscles while the Pilaties lengthens them. The result is a lean, fat-burning physique that is also flexible and relaxed.
The only complaint I have about the program is the lack of logical advancement. Many DVD’s are designed for beginners who are not in the best of shape. Of course, this is the ideal place to start in any routine. However, the advanced DVD’s seem to jump to an almost professional level.
Adding ankle or wrist weights is a viable alternative that will help provide some challenge to the workout. The problem is that the added weights can easily throw you off balance. The idea behind pilates is a natural flow of motion. Sometimes adding weight restricts your range of motion and you are doing little more than working out with weights.
All and all, the pilaties approach to fitness is wonderful. It is a safe, effective exercise program that suits nearly everyone. Finding one that provides reasonable challenges can be a challenge in itself.
Improve Your Health with a Pilates Exercise Routine
The Pilates exercise routine is a fitness program that works the core postural muscles and promotes good back health. It keeps the body balanced whilst providing spinal support. Pilates exercise routines increase awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and, as mentioned, help to strengthen the deep postural muscles and so alleviate back pain.
Developed in the early 1990s
Named after its originator, the Pilates exercise program was a system that was developed in the early 1990s with the aim of improving health as well as for supporting the health of those who were World War I internees. This was followed by incorporation of springs into programs for rehabilitation used on hospitalized patients and was further translated into machines and finally unique equipment was created that is now used in the Pilates exercise system.
There are a few important principles that are included in all Pilates exercise programs and some of these are using mental focus to improve efficiency of movement as well as controlling muscles, being aware of neutral spine alignment or proper posture while exercising, developing the deep muscles of the back and abdomen in order to support such posture and using breathing to promote mental focus as well as centering. The Pilates exercise program also creates length, strength as well as flexibility in the muscles.
In the beginning, Pilates exercise was mainly used by professionals such as dancers who found these exercises worthwhile for improving strength, balance as well as flexibility and in the 1980s the Pilates exercise was rediscovered and is presently a very popular form of exercise for those who need health benefits. There are two formats of the Pilates exercise and these are using the one of kind Pilates’ equipment in private or semi-private sessions and group mat classes that does not require equipment.
An example of Pilates equipment that uses the resistance of springs in order to create effort is the Reformer which has a sliding platform anchored at one end of its frame. This Pilates exercise platform is able to be moved by pushing off from a stationary bar or pulling on ropes. In contrast, mat exercises which are normally taught in group classes have less scope than that of Pilates exercise machines. They tend to focus on the spine as well as the hips but can be just as effective.
Whether you choose to use machines or just basic equipment in you Pilates exercise routine your health will improve considerably, both in mind and body.
Pilates Teacher Training
Where to Earn Your Certification in Pilates Teacher Training
More and more American's are choosing Pilates as their favorite way to stay in shape. Although Pilates has been around for a long time, it's popularity has grown steadily over the past decade.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, over the next few years the demand for employees in the fitness field will increase more than for any other job.
Facilities and studios in cities all across America are now offering Pilates teacher training. The course for Pilates certification is usually offered in two separate parts - comprehensive instruction and mat instruction.
Classes to become certified in mat instruction are often given at health clubs. The classes are usually completed over the period of two weekends, but more intensive classes will be done in one weekend. The fees for these courses will vary, but normally run from $100 to several hundred dollars.
To achieve certification in Pilates, comprehensive teacher training will require a lot more time, anywhere from twelve to eighteen months. During that period you will need to work around 900 hours as a teacher apprentice and have to complete basic psychology and anatomy classes.
For some schools you will need a minimum of one year of prior Pilates training and will have to have attended a set number of private lessons. The basic rates charged for comprehensive training will be between $2,000 and $4,000.
A career in Pilates can also be targeted towards specialized areas such as injuries, spinal care and osteoporosis. Teacher training is also included in the comprehensive course.
If for some reason you don't have a place nearby where you can take Pilates teacher training, or don't have the time needed you can do it online. The rates usually run from $50 up to a few hundred and can be done at a slower pace than at a studio.