Looking for information on Pilates.?

Question

I am thinking about doing pilates with my friend. What exactly is it about. i know its like yoga, and that it helps you lose weight. Is it very difficalt, and is it exspensive?

Answer 1

Pilates is a system of exercise designed to strengthen and lengthen the core muscles (abdominals, back, hips). Some of the positions may be similar to yoga, but are not held as poses. They are fluid and dynamic movements. It is a mind/body exercise focusing on neutral alignment of the bones and coordinated with breathing. When done properly, simple movements such as leg lifts become difficult because you are working from your core. Private lessons can be expensive. Check into your local YWCA or gym for a less costly option.

Answer 2

Pilates (pronounced "puh-lah-teez") is a system of over 500 controlled exercises that engage the mind and condition the total body. It is a balanced blend of strength and flexibility training that improves posture, reduces stress and creates long, lean muscles without bulking up.
Pilates works several muscle groups simultaneously through smooth, continuous motion, with a particular concentration on strengthening and stabilizing the core (the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region, sometimes referred to as the "powerhouse").
The focus in Pilates is on quality of movement rather than quantity, which makes one feel invigorated rather than exhausted after a session. Pilates takes a balanced approach so that no muscle group is overworked and the body works as an efficient, holistic system in sport and daily activity.
Ideally, Pilates is practiced in a Pilates studio under the careful supervision of a certified Pilates instructor, either one-on-one or in small group sessions. These professionals are highly trained specialists who know how to tailor a Pilates program to meet individual needs and abilities, monitoring movements to ensure correct form for optimum results.
As Pilates grows in popularity, Pilates classes are being offered not only at specialized studios but also at gyms, health clubs, spas, rehabilitation clinics, senior facilities and community centers around the world.
There are also plenty of Pilates videos on the market, - such as the Winsor Pilates, Stott Pilates and the Gaiam Living Arts Series - that allow you to experience the strengthening, stretching and toning techniques right at home.

Answer 3

I go to a combined class the incorporates yoga pilates and tai chi, its the best excercise ive ever done, gives you great body tone, flexibility and posture, and a great sense of well being, the pilates is a bit more strenuous than yoga as it focuses on your core muscles and as does yoga requires controlled breathing to be effective but it is well worth it. Check your local sports centre most will do Pilates classes and it wont be any more expensive than an ordinary excercise class.