Pilates: Is It for You?

I am not a fitness enthusiast who jumps on the bandwagon of every new craze sweeping the fitness world, so when a coworker repeatedly raved about the exercise class she had been taking for the past four months, I didn't take much notice. . . until the day that she explained some of the exercises and their focuses.

Pilates is driven by a philosophy in which I strongly believe, one that you don't hear about very often. Its focus is on the process of movement as opposed to just doing. You work with your body and as such your goal is obtained naturally.

I had to try it, so I bought a video tape and anxiously got started. What I found was a fitness routine that uses slow, controlled movements where awareness is on the whole body at all times. It improves coordination, flexibility, muscle control and gives you long, sexy muscles while strengthening and toning.

Though Pilates appeared to hit the fitness world with vigor only recently, it has actually stood the test of time and has come out standing on both feet (with great posture I might add). Pilates is a method, based on the teachings of Joseph Pilates. It began in the 1920's and like the birth of many new ideas it came about because of a need. In order to overcome his disabilities, Pilates established a philosophy by combining yoga, breathing, weight training and gymnastics. His goal was to craft and sustain a structurally fit body.

For years Pilates was considered the exercise for the dancer. It wasn't until recently that people from all different fitness backgrounds and levels starting getting involved. Pilates is a great addition to any fitness regime. When you notice you're standing taller and appear leaner, you'll be glad that you stopped fighting your body and started working with it.

-Tracy Provo
Personal Trainer and GH Fitness Editor

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