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About Pilates

Untitled Document

About Pilates

 

Pilates (English pronunciation: /pɨˈlɑːtiːz/, German: [piˈlaːtəs]) is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany, the UK and the USA. As of 2005, there were 11 million people practicing the discipline regularly and 14,000 instructors in the United States.

Pilates called his method Contrology (from control and Greek -λογία, -logia), because he believed that his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The Pilates method seeks to increase the strength, flexibility and control of the body. Pilates is a body conditioning routine that helps to not only build flexibility, but also strength, endurance, and coordination.

 

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Action Plan for Diabetes by Darryl Barnes and American College of Sports Medicine NEW 168 pages Get other Fitness books here Get other Action Plan books here About Action Plan for Diabetes Take control of your blood sugar with Action Plan for Diabetes. This complete guide to managing and preventing complications associated with the disease can significantly decrease your chances of needing insulin injections. This exercise-based plan can be tailored to your body’s needs to boost your energy level help you lose weight and make you feel stronger than you have in years. A complete effective program that allows you to enjoy a healthier more active lifestyle Action Plan for Diabetes explains how to build strength flexibility and endurance while monitoring and maintaining appro extra info.....

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Pilates Illustrated by Portia Page NEW 248 pages Get other Fitness books here About Pilates Illustrated Pilates Illustrated is your guide to lengthening and strengthening muscles while improving posture flexibility and balance. Renowned instructor Portia Page shows you how to perform the essential movements exercises and mat work routines. You’ll also learn to incorporate equipment such as a stability ball stretch band and Pilates ring to isolate muscles for targeted results. Pilates Illustrated’s straightforward highly visual approach and 13 predefined routines (including those for perfecting posture low back care morning energy evening relaxation and total-body strength) offer the quickest and most effective way to experience the physical and mental benefits of Pilates. Throughout you’ll also find execution cues modifications and variations allowing you to immediately perform each exercise regardless of experience or skill level. With detailed instructions and hundreds of full-color photos Pilates Illustrated will accompany you step by step on the path to improved health strength flexibility energy and relaxation. This is the exercis extra info.....

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Fitness Illustrated by Brian Sharkey NEW 328 pages Get other Fitness books here About Fitness Illustrated Tired of the same old fitness advice? You know the drill: Eat less exercise more and life will be grand. Sounds easy enough so why don’t the results follow? And most of all what can you do to achieve your fitness goals? Fitness Illustrated allows you to see exercise and activity from a whole new perspective. In this one-of-a-kind guide author Brian Sharkey takes you inside each type of activity to show you what works what doesn’t and why! You’ll go beyond the basics to see how your body changes with increased activity. From how muscles gain size and strength to the effect of aerobic activity on heart and lung function this is fitness as you have never seen it before. Straightforward explanations expert advice and hundreds of full-color illustrations and photogra click here.....

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Fit for Duty by Robert Hoffman and Thomas Collingwood NEW 208 pages Get other Fitness books here About Fit for Duty In the world of law enforcement there are no time-outs no halftime breaks and no substitutions! If you’re a police officer sheriff’s deputy state patrol officer federal agent or detention officer you know that you need strength and stamina to perform your job effectively especially when critical situations arise. Fit for Duty Second Edition will help you prepare for the rigors of your work. You’ll learn how to develop an individualized fitness program that not only improves your physical readiness but also helps you lead a healthier lifestyle. Founded on 40 years of law enforcement fitness experience and field-tested research involving more than 200 agencies Fit f click here.....

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Performance Massage by Robert King NEW 160 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Performance Massage Now effective high-energy massage techniques are easy for anyone to learn! In Performance Massage Robert K. King former National President of the American Massage Therapy Association explains massage therapy for athletes dancers and other physically active people. Coaches and fitness professionals will also find this book to be a valuable reference. Even if the reader has never given or received a massage this book makes it easy to do! The book is loaded with over 150 color photos that guide the reader step-by-step through all of the skills needed to do Performance Massage with a training partner. Performance Massage is different from popular relaxation or medical massages in several ways. First it features a unique combination o more details.....

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Jump Rope Training by Buddy Lee NEW 224 pages Get other Fitness books here About Jump Rope Training The world’s best-selling jump rope training guide returns and it’s bigger better and more complete than ever! In Jump Rope Training Second Edition former U.S. wrestling champion Buddy Lee presents his jump rope training system used by over 25 U.S. Olympic teams. Workouts for a variety of sport skill and fitness components are included such as endurance strength and power speed agility and balance. This second edition also includes the latest on rehabilitation of sport injuries and optimizing body composition for athletic performance. And to get you started immediately Jump Rope Training presents sample sport-specif more information.....

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Untitled Document Delavier's Stretching Anatomy by Frederic Delavier Jean-Pierre Cleamenceau and Michael Gundill NEW 144 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Delavier's Stretching Anatomy Get an inside view of the muscles in action during every stretch you perform! Delavier’s Stretching Anatomy is your guide for increasing flexibility improving range of motion toning muscles and relieving pain and discomfort. The very best stretches for shoulders chest arms torso back hips and legs are all here and all in the stunning detail that only Frédéric Delavier can provide. With over 550 full-color photos and illustrations you’ll go inside more than 130 exercises to see how muscles interact with surrounding joints a more details.....

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Action Plan for Menopause by Barbara Bushman Janice Clark-Young and American College of Sports Medicine NEW 232 pages Get other Fitness books here Get other Action Plan books here About Action Plan for Menopause Reduce menopausal symptoms promote bone health and decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease with Action Plan for Menopause. Based on the latest research this exercise-based plan will help you live more comfortably and take control of your diet fitness level and health. Learn the best and safest exercises for perimenopause menopause and postmenopause and how diet medication and exercise interact to affect symptoms. Use one of the sample programs provided or tailor a program to your own needs with workouts to gain strength flexibility and stamina. Developed in cooperation with the American College of Sports Medicine Action Plan for Menopause is the healthy way to manage menopause. Take action now to feel and function better and add quality years to your life. About Barbara Bushman Barbara Bushman is certified as a prog more information.....

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Pilates Anatomy by Rael Isacowitz and Karen Clippinger NEW 216 pages Get other Fitness books here Get other Pilates books here About Pilates Anatomy This is Pilates as you’ve never seen it before. With detailed descriptions step-by-step instruction and stunning full-color anatomical illustrations Pilates Anatomy takes you inside the exercises and programs that will tone the body stabilize the core improve balance and increase flexibility. Using the original mat work of Joseph Pilates you’ll see how key muscles are used how variations and minor adjustments can influence effectiveness and how breathing alignment posture and movement are all fundamentally linked. Choosing from over 45 exercises you can target a particular body region and delve deeper to stretch strengthen and finely coordinate specific muscles. You’ll also find techniques for breathing concentration and self-awareness for a unique exercise experience that enhances your mind and your body. Whether you are just beginning to explore the beauty and benefits of Pilates or have been practicing for years Pilates Anatomy is a one-of-a-kind resource that you’ll refer to again and more.....

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Untitled Document Morning Pilates Workouts by Cathleen Murakami NEW 232 pages Get other Pilates books here About Morning Pilates Workouts A Pilates routine for every morning schedule! You already know that morning workouts are the best way to exercise regularly manage weight and energize your day. Morning Pilates Workouts makes it easy to maximize the benefits of your early-day routine no matter what your energy level is or how much time you have to spare. Nine workout options include light moderate and high-effort routines lasting for 20 40 and 60 minutes. Numerous poses warm-up options and breathing techniques allow you to reduce stress and improve flexibility. Along with nutrition advice and tips to improve your environment Morning Pilates Workouts provides all you need to reinvigorate your morning routines. Morning Pilates Workouts is part of the Morning Workout series books designed to help you g more details.....

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.style3 {color: #660066} Yoga Anatomy Second Edition by Leslie Kaminoff and Amy Matthews NEW 288 pages Get other Yoga books here About Yoga Anatomy The best-selling anatomy guide for yoga is now updated expanded and better than ever!  With more asanas vinyasas full-color anatomical illustrations and in-depth information the second edition of Yoga Anatomy provides you with a deeper understanding of the structures and principles underlying each movement and of yoga itself.  From breathing to inversions to standing poses see how specific muscles respond to the movements of the joints; how alterations of a pose can enhance or reduce effectiveness; and how the spine breathing and body position are all fundamentally linked.  Whether you are just beg click here.....

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Untitled Document Beth Shaw's Yogafit by Beth Shaw NEW 288 pages Get other Yoga books here About Beth Shaw's Yogafit Whether you are a fitness buff searching for a new challenge or a yoga enthusiast looking to supplement your exercise routine Beth Shaw’s YogaFit will help you reach your ultimate physical potential! This cutting-edge fitness program combines tough aerobic exercise with strength- and flexibility-building yoga to create a total-body workout. With YogaFit you’ll experience not only increased overall health energy and vitality but also a stronger and leaner body reduced stress and tension better posture improved concentration and a higher level of fitness. Written by Beth Shaw an internationally renowned exercise expert who has trained more than 75 000 fitness instructors on six continents this book presents more than 85 YogaFit poses organized into workout routines that you can use every day. The text includes information on using YogaFit as a training tool for sports and creating personalized routines to meet your own needs. Join the millions of people who have already tried extra info.....

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Qigong Illustrated by Christina Barea NEW 168 pages Get other Fitness books here About Qigong Illustrated Strengthen your body. Strengthen your mind. Each year millions of people worldwide discover qigong and the incredible healing power of qi. Now with Qigong Illustrated you can too. Qigong Illustrated is a step-by-step guide complete with detailed instructions and full-color photo sequences of the most effective movements exercises and traditional routines including Daoist Five Eight Silk Brocade and Turning and Winding the Belt Vessel. Centered on the three essential components of qigong (body mind and breath) Qigong Illustrated’s straightforward highly visual approach is the quickest and m more here.....

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Untitled Document Energy Every Day by Ron Woods and Chris Jordan NEW 248 pages Get other Fitness books here About Energy Every Day There's a worldwide energy crisis that has nothing to do with fossil fuels or nuclear and solar power. It's a crisis of personal energy. You’re working longer hours sleeping less and spending less time being active. But this is one trend you don’t have to accept. In fact the solution is in your hands. Energy Every Day is the result of Human Performance Institute’s decades of research into the lifestyles of the world’s busiest people. Whether you’re a student or CEO athlete or small-business owner you’ll learn how to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine for better health and increased energy. In Energy Every Day you’ll create a personal energy plan specific to you—your goals your needs your schedule. Evaluate your lifestyle identify opportunities and add energy-boosting activities to your extra info.....

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Fit in 5 5 10 and 30 Minute Workouts for a Leaner Stronger Body by Greg Whyte NEW 192 pages Get other Fitness books here About Fit in 5 Build fitness into your lifestyle with 5- 10- and 30-minute workouts that can be done anywhere anytime! Fit in 5 explains how to maximize your time meet your goals and reap the rewards of exercise. Select from a variety of exercises and workout options to create a customized exercise program targeting strength flexibility and endurance as you work toward your goal of 150 minutes of exercise per week. Choose from a wide range of exercises: • Core strength and stability • Glutes abs and thighs • Strength and power • Resistance bands • F extra info.....

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Action Plan for High Blood Pressure by Jon Divine and American College of Sports Medicine NEW 200 pages Get other Fitness books here Get other Action Plan books here About Action Plan for High Blood Pressure Lower blood pressure boost energy and reduce or eliminate the need for medication with Action Plan for High Blood Pressure. Based on proven research this exercise-based plan will help you take control of your diet and your health. Learn the best exercises for controlling blood pressure; correct exercise technique; and how diet medication and exercise interact to affect blood pressure. Use one of the sample programs provided or tailor a program to your own needs with workouts to gain strength flexibility and stamina. Developed in conjunction with the American College of Sports Medicine Action Plan for High Blood Pressure is the healthy way to manage hypertension. Take action now to feel and function better and add quality years to your life. About Jon G. Divine Jon G. Divine MD MS FACSM is currently associate professor in the department of pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati Medical Cent more information.....

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YMCA Healthy Back Book by YMCA of the USA NEW 120 pages Get other Fitness books here About YMCA Healthy Back Book If you're troubled by back pain you're not alone. This problem affects over 70% of all adults at some time in their lives. The suffering can range from a periodic twinge that makes it difficult to perform everyday tasks to excruciating pain that makes it impossible to get out of bed. Now you can beat the odds and learn how to overcome back problems with the YMCA Healthy Back Book. Developed by the world leader in back care education this medically sound and easy-to-follow back program will help you • understand the causes of back pain and various treatment options • learn how to exercise to help prevent painful back problems and • discover ways to reduce back pain when it occurs. This book contains the most up-to-date practical information available from the YMCA--an organization that has helped over 300 000 people find relief from back pain. The book features more than 8 find out more.....

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Precision Heart Rate Training by Edmund R. Burke NEW 224 pages Get other Fitness books here About Precision Heart Rate Training Over the past 20 years heart rate monitors (HRMs) have gained widespread popularity among fitness enthusiasts and elite athletes. These wireless devices monitor the body`s levels of cardiovascular and physiological stress during exercise so users can adjust their training intensity for the safest most effective workouts. While more people are buying HRMs few know how to maximize their use. Precision Heart Rate Training is the best most complete resource for anyone who wants to use an HRM to get optimal results. Written by prominent authorities from a variety of sports and fitness activities and backed by Polar Electro the leading manufacturer of HRMs Precision Heart Rate Training fully explains why and how to train with a heart rate monitor. Editor Edmund R. Burke a former Olympic coach who began working wi more.....

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ACSM's Complete Guide to Fitness and Health by American College of Sports Medicine NEW 408 pages Get other Fitness books here About ACSM's Complete Guide to Fitness and Health You know the importance of good health but how do you achieve it? And how do you maintain it through the years as your body and lifestyle change introducing obstacles to physical activity and optimal nutrition? In ACSM’s Complete Guide to Fitness Health you will find the answers and much much more. The American College of Sports Medicine the largest and most-respected sport science and medicine organization in the world has created the ACSM’s Complete Guide to Fitness Health to strip away common fads myths and misconceptions and provide you with the latest research sound advice and age-specific recommendations that you can trust.  You will learn these str extra info.....

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ACSM Fitness Book by American College of Sports Medicine NEW 184 pages Get other Fitness books here About ACSM Fitness Book Start where you are and go wherever your goals take you. No other guide offers a more comprehensive plan for developing a personal fitness program and sticking with it. Developed by the American College of Sports Medicine ACSM Fitness Book offers the total package from one of the most respected organizations in the field. In its first two editions the ACSM Fitness Book sold more than 100 000 copies. Now the classic has been enhanced and expanded with the tools you need to succeed. From simple step-by-step instruction to new insights on nutrition weight control motivation and overcoming set more.....

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Untitled Document Athletic Abs by Scott Cole NEW 224 pages Get other Fitness books here About Athletic Abs Attain the essential core strength that will result in rock-hard abs without doing endless crunches! Scott Cole the fitness celebrity made famous on the Abs of Steel video presents his revolutionary program to develop and maintain a sculpted midsection. This workout can be done at home and no expensive equipment is necessary! Rather than focus on endless repetitions of painful crunches this program uses your entire body to condition your core. Athletic Abs combines principles found in sport training martial arts gymnastics and yoga to isolate and develop the four abdominal regions. Not only will these exercises result in a chiseled look they’ll also increase your overall strength flexibility and balance. Plus a special section combining nutrition and interval training will help you burn fat and showcase your abs. In addition to starring in the bestselling Abs more.....

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Untitled Document Women's Home Workout Bible by Brad Schoenfeld NEW 336 pages Get other Fitness books here About Women's Home Workout Bible Shed unwanted weight sculpt your physique tone muscles reduce joint pain or simply be healthier and more fit. Women’s Home Workout Bible will show you how—all in the privacy and comfort of your own home. In Women’s Home Workout Bible best-selling author and renowned personal trainer Brad Schoenfeld shares his secrets on the perfect at-home workout. Step by step you’ll identify the home gym setup and workouts for your fitness goals schedule and budget. You’ll learn how to set up your personal gym for as little as 0 or expand your options with more equipment for 0 00 or more than 00. Whatever your budget with over 160 more details.....

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Untitled Document Sport Stretch by Michael Alter NEW 232 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Sport Stretch This new edition of Sport Stretch is a complete guide to flexibility for both weekend warriors and elite competitors. It features more stretches than the first edition a new user-friendly layout and more background information on the hows and whys of stretching. The centerpieces of this comprehensive book are its illustrations and step-by-step guidelines for 311 different stretches. The stretches can be used individually or grouped with other stretches to form a personalized flexibility program. Athletes looking to use the stretches to improve performance in a specific sport will love the book`s Stretching Program section. It`s full of handy tables that detail the most effective exercises for individual sports. There are sample programs for 41 sports in all! Sport Stretch also provides a selection of "All Star" stretches. These include the single best stretches more details.....

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Untitled Document Pilates by Rael Isacowitz NEW 360 pages Get other Pilates books here About Pilates Strengthen lengthen and sculpt your muscles with the full range of Pilates exercises. In Pilates world-renowned Pilates expert Rael Isacowitz shows you the same repertoire that he has used to train 10 Olympians including U.S. figure skater Sasha Cohen and diver Wendy Williams as well as an elite group of professional instructors who work with celebrities and athletes around the world. Starting with the foundation for all the exercises Pilates presents an in-depth treatment of mat work including photo illustrations and detailed breathing instruction to help you perform the movements correctly. A unique set of challenging exercise sequences allows the movements click here.....

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Diabetic Athlete's Handbook by Sheri Colberg-Ochs NEW 296 pages Get other Fitness books here About Diabetic Athlete's Handbook Don’t let diabetes slow you down. Whether you’re a recreational exerciser or a competitive athlete the Diabetic Athlete’s Handbook has the training and performance advice you need to remain active and at the top of your game. Renowned researcher and diabetes expert Dr. Sheri Colberg has developed a practical guide specifically for athletes of all ages with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The Diabetic Athlete’s Handbook provides you with the most up-to-date information on insulins and other medications glucose monitors blood sugar management nutrition and supplements injury prevention and treatment and mental strategies for maximizing performance and optimizing health. Featuring more than 100 sport-specific training guidelines for fitness endurance power and outdoor activities the Diabetic Athlete’s Handbook is the one resource you can’t afford to be without. Rely on it to stay healthy be more active train smarter and reach new levels of athletic success. About Sheri R. Colberg Sheri R. C click here.....

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.style2 {color: #660066} Full-Body Flexibility Second Edition by Jay Blahnik NEW 272 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Full-Body Flexibility Improve flexibility balance and strength in three steps! Only the Full-Body Flexibility system blends the best stretching methods from yoga Pilates martial arts and sports training into stretching sequences for your every need.  In this updated edition you’ll find 175 stretches and 23 routines that will help you take these steps: Strengthen muscles to support your body and maximize your entire range of motion. Enhance flexibility by challenging your muscles with multiple techniques. Balance muscles in opposing muscle groups on both sides of your body. Use the book's step-by-step instruction and detailed full-color photo sequences to enhance your body’s natural movement reduce muscular tension strengthen joints improve posture and take your athletic performance to new heights. Whether you’re seeking to improve overall fitness or simply searching for a more effective way to stretch  Full-Body Flexib more here.....

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Your Personal Trainer by Douglas Brooks NEW 264 pages Get other Fitness books here About Your Personal Trainer Are you struggling to develop an exercise program? Having trouble sticking with your current program? Dissatisfied with the results you`re seeing-or not seeing? Your Personal Trainer gives you customized expert training advice that will help you get the results you want. And it does so at a fraction of the cost of hiring your own trainer! Douglas Brooks-one of the top personal trainers in the United States-shares his no-nonsense results-oriented approach to training. He offers no quick fixes but what he does offer are proven effective exercise programs and techniques similar to those he prescribes to his clients every day. Your Personal T find out more.....

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28-Day Body Shapeover by Brad Schoenfeld NEW 248 pages Get other Fitness books here About 28-Day Body Shapeover In just one month make the mirror your best friend—by giving your body a shapeover! 28-Day Body Shapeover provides real sustainable results with the fastest way to shape the body you’ve always wanted. You’ll be taken step by step through four weeklong stages of workouts and menus that are set up to fit practically any lifestyle. The key is the structured yet highly flexible plan which features the following: Concise workouts just 30 to 40 minutes in length A choice between daily workouts or three workout days per week A variety of exercises that can be performed at home or in the gym Menus that list everything you need to eat for 28 days and allow you to substitute your favorite foods And once you have finished the first 28 days and are looking your best the plan doesn’t stop there. Author and fitness authority Brad Schoenfeld shows how to adjust the plan so that you can use it over and over again to shape your body to its fullest potential! Abou more.....

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Untitled Document End Back and Neck Pain by Vincent Fortanasce David Gutkind and Robert Watkins NEW 224 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About End Back and Neck Pain If you suffer from back and neck pain you want answers. You want relief. Now there is one book that brings you both: End Back Neck Pain. In End Back Neck Pain the leading names in back health join together to provide the latest research professional insights and proven programs to prevent and relieve pain and discomfort. You’ll get straight answers to questions such as these: Why does my back or neck hurt? What can I do now to alleviate my discomfort? How do I prevent my pain from returning? Could I have a serious or debilitating condition? Is my more.....

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The Health Fitness Handbook by B. Don Franks Edward Howley and Yuruk Iyriboz NEW 208 pages Get other Fitness books here About The Health Fitness Handbook One of the most difficult aspects of getting fit is knowing where to start. Few people know how to take that first step on the road to a more active healthy lifestyle. And with all the quick fixes and instant "experts" in the market today it`s difficult to know who to trust to guide you in the right direction. The Health Fitness Handbook is the answer. This no-nonsense information-packed guide combines the latest research with sound medical advice. Together the authors have 95 years of experience researching prescribing teaching and writing on fitness and other health-related topics. They offer honest reliable answers to your fitness questions in easy-to-understand language. Inside this book you`ll find everything you need to start a safe effective fitness program or to make your current program even more beneficial. Franks Howley and Iyriboz help you: • understand what`s important for your own health and fitness • eval more details.....

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Massage for Sport Performance by Michael McGillicuddy NEW 192 pages plus DVD Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Massage for Sport Performance Train harder recover quickly and improve performance! Today’s top athletes rely on sport massage to stay healthy at the top of their game and a step ahead of the competition. With Massage for Sport Performance you can too. In this special book and DVD package renowned sport massage therapist Michael McGillicuddy demonstrates the same techniques he has used to train and prepare the world’s elite track and field athletes for Olympic competition. Massage for Sport Performance will show you how to perform both self-massage and partner-assisted massage; administer the most effective routines for pre- and postcompetition; stretch warm up and activate primary muscles; treat critical muscle groups for elevated performan more.....

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Fitness After 50 by Walter Ettinger Brenda Wright and Steven N. Blair NEW 256 pages Get other Fitness books here About Fitness After 50 It’s never too late to get fit! Fitness After 50 shows you exactly how to get there addressing all of your questions about exercise—and more. Whether you are completely new to exercise or are looking to fine-tune your existing program this information-rich book will show you how to get started stay on track and have fun as you meet your fitness goals. This easy-to-understand manual also serves as a self-paced workbook which teaches you what to ask your doctor about physical activity how to exercise safely and how to fit activity into your busy schedule. If you have an existing medical condition such as heart disease osteoporosis or diabetes you will also find ways to adapt your activity level to your condition. Sample aerobic muscular fitness and combination programs are provided along with lifestyle strategies for fitting activity into your daily routine. Fitness After 50 offers rel extra info.....

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First Steps Your Healthy Living Journal by Active Living Partners NEW 168 pages Get other Fitness books here About First Steps Do you want to eat better and become more active but are unsure about where to even begin? Then get on the path to lasting lifestyle change with First Steps: Your Healthy Living Journal the one tool you need in order to overcome bad habits permanently and shape the healthy life you want. Both a journal and guidebook First Steps presents a simple four-step process to improving your health habits: Build awareness of your starting point desired results and obstacles. Create solutions to your barriers to healthy living. Boost your confidence in order to achieve your goals. Sustain commitment to your new healthy lifestyle. First Steps: Your Healthy Living Journal allows you to track your progress according to your goals preferences and fitness level and it is based on the life-changing principles of Active Living Partners. Active Living Partners programs are offered in hospitals fitness centers worksites colleges and communities in the United States and abroad. About Active Living Partners Active Living Partners a division of Human Kinetics produces ed more.....

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Untitled Document Stretch to Win by Ann and Chris Frederick NEW 264 pages Get other Flexibility and Stretching books here About Stretch to Win Leave the old static stretches muscle tightness and movement restrictions behind. Stretch to Win presents a complete flexibility training system—a proven winner for today’s athlete. This is the new way to both loosen up and perform your best. Learn the dynamic exercise techniques that most closely represent the movements and loads that will be required of your body on the court field course track or mat or in the water. After you complete a simple self-evaluation a special science-based stretching matrix enables you to tailor a program specifically for your body your sport your position or your event. Authors Ann and Chris Frederick have trained many elite and aspiring athletes to achieve optimal muscle and joint function. Now you can stretch to win and enjoy the same results champions in all sports have achieved through this modern customized flexibility tr more.....

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Untitled Document Morning Yoga Workouts by Zack Kurland NEW 232 pages Get other Yoga books here About Morning Yoga Workouts A yoga routine to fit every morning schedule! You know that exercising in the morning is the best way to maintain a regular exercise schedule manage weight and energize your day. Morning Yoga Workouts makes it easy to find a way no matter how you sleep what your energy level is and how much time you have to spare. Nine workouts include light moderate and intense sessions that last for 15 to 20 minutes 30 to 40 minutes and 50 to 60 minutes at home or in a studio. Poses include an in-depth exploration of the sun salutations and the full range of yoga asana and breathing techniques which appeal to all levels of yoga experience for building strength and flexibility improving postural alignment and stabilizing the inner core. Warm-up routines are included so you can use your yoga practice to prepare for other activities and visualization and meditation mantras improve the mind-body connecti more details.....

History

Pilates was designed by Joseph Pilates, a physical-culturist born in Germany in 1880. He developed a system of exercises during the first half of the 20th century which were intended to strengthen the human mind and body. Joseph Pilates believed that mental and physical health are inter-related.

He had practiced many of the physical training regimes which were available in Germany in his youth, and it was out of this context that he developed his own work, which has clear connections with the physical culture of the late ninteenth century such as the use of specially invented apparatuses and the claim that the exercises could cure illness. It is also related to the tradition of "corrective exercise" or "medical gymnastics" which is typified by Pehr Henrik Ling.

Joseph Pilates published two books in his lifetime which related to his training method: Your Health: A Corrective System of Exercising That Revolutionizes the Entire Field of Physical Education (1934) and Return to Life through Contrology (1945). In common with early C20 physical culture, Pilates had an extremely high regard for the Greeks and the physical prowess demonstrated in their Gymnasium.

The first generation of students, many of them dancers, who studied with Joseph Pilates and went on to open studios and teach the method are collectively known as The Elders and the most prominent include: Romana Kryzanowska, Kathy Grant, Jay Grimes, Ron Fletcher, Mary Bowen, Carola Treir, Bob Seed, Eve Gentry, Bruce King, Lolita San Miguel and Mary Pilates (the niece of Joseph and Clara). Modern day pilates styles, both "traditional" and "contemporary", are derived from the teaching of these first generation students.

The method was originally confined to the few and normally practiced in a specialized studio, but with time this has changed and pilates can now be found in community centers, gyms and physiotherapy rooms as well as in hybrid practice such as yogilates and in newly developed forms such as the Menezes Method. The “traditional” form still survives and there are also a variety of “contemporary” schools, such as Stott Pilates, which have adapted the system in different ways.

 

Method and apparatus

The Pilates method seeks to develop controlled movement from a strong core and it does this using a range of apparatuses to guide and train the body. Joe Pilates originally developed his method as mat exercises (his 1945 Return to Life teaches 34 of these), but, in common with many other physical culture systems from the first part of the twentieth century, he used several pieces of apparatus to help people "get the method in their bodies". Each piece of apparatus has its own repertoire of exercises and most of the exercises done on the various pieces of Pilates apparatus are resistance training since they make use of springs to provide additional resistance. Using springs results in "progressive resistance", meaning the resistance increases as the spring is stretched. The most widely used piece of apparatus, and probably the most important, is the Reformer, but other apparatus used in a traditional Pilates studio include the Cadillac (also called the Trapeze Table), the high (or electric) chair, the Wunda Chair, the baby Chair, and the Ladder Barrel, the Spine Corrector (Step Barrel) and small barrel. Lesser used apparati include the Magic Circle, Guillotine Tower, the Pedi-Pole, and the Foot Corrector.

In contemporary Pilates other props are used, including small weighted balls, foam rollers, large exercise balls, rotating disks, and resistance bands. Some of the traditional apparatuses have been adapted for use in contemporary pilates (e.g. splitting the pedal on the wunda chair). Some contemporary schools, such as the British Body Control Pilates, work primarily on the mat with these smaller props, enabling people to study the method without a full studio.

Currently the Pilates Method is divided into two camps, Classical/Authentic Pilates or Contemporary/Modern Pilates. Classical/Authentic Pilates teach the exercises in an order that does not vary from lesson to lesson. Teachers of this style of Pilates seek to stay close to Joseph Pilates's original work and generally use equipment that is built to his specifications. Most classically trained teachers will have studied the complete system of exercises and can generally trace their training back to Joseph Pilates through one of his proteges. Contemporary/Modern pilates breaks the method down into various parts and the order of the exercises varies from lesson to lesson with many changes made to the original exercises.

 

Principles

Philip Friedman and Gail Eisen, two students of Romana Kryzanowska, published the first modern book on pilates, The Pilates Method of Physical and Mental Conditioning, in 1980 and in it they outlined six "principles of Pilates". These have been widely adopted - and adapted - by the wider community. The original six principles were: concentration, control, center, flow, precision and breathing.

Concentration

Pilates demands intense focus: "You have to concentrate on what you´re doing. All the time. And you must concentrate on your entire body". This is not easy, but in Pilates the way that exercises are done is more important than the exercises themselves. In 2006, at the Parkinson Center of the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Oregon, the concentration factor of the Pilates method was being studied in providing relief from the degenerative symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Control

"Contrology" was Joseph Pilates' preferred name for his method and it is based on the idea of muscle control. "Nothing about the Pilates Method is haphazard. The reason you need to concentrate so thoroughly is so you can be in control of every aspect of every moment" All exercises are done with control with the muscles working to lift against gravity and the resistance of the springs and thereby control the movement of the body and the apparatus. "The Pilates Method teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy".

Centering

In order to attain control of your body you must have a starting place: the center. The center is the focal point of the Pilates Method. Many Pilates teachers refer to the group of muscles in the center of the body – encompassing the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks and inner thighs – the “powerhouse." All movement in Pilates should begin from the powerhouse and flow outward to the limbs.

Flow or efficiency of movement

Pilates aims for elegant sufficiency of movement, creating flow through the use of appropriate transitions. Once precision has been achieved, the exercises are intended to flow within and into each other in order to build strength and stamina. In other words, the Pilates technique asserts that physical energy exerted from the center should coordinate movements of the extremities: Pilates is flowing movement outward from a strong core.

Precision

Precision is essential to correct pilates: "concentrate on the correct movements each time you exercise, lest you do them improperly and thus lose all the vital benefits of their value". The focus is on doing one precise and perfect movement, rather than many halfhearted ones. Pilates is here reflecting common physical culture wisdom: "You will gain more strength from a few energetic, concentrated efforts than from a thousand listless, sluggish movements". The goal is for this precision to eventually become second nature, and carry over into everyday life as grace and economy of movement.

Breathing

Breathing is important in the Pilates method. In Return to Life, Pilates devotes a section of his introduction specifically to breathing "Bodily house-cleaning with blood circulation" He saw considerable value in increasing the intake of oxygen and the circulation of this oxygenated blood to every part of the body. This he saw as cleansing and invigorating. Proper full inhalation and complete exhalation were key to this. "Pilates saw forced exhalation as the key to full inhalation." He advised people to squeeze out the lungs as you would wring a wet towel dry. In Pilates exercises, you breathe in with the effort and out on the return. In order to keep the lower abdominals close to the spine; the breathing needs to be directed laterally, into the lower ribcage. Pilates breathing is described as a posterior lateral breathing, meaning that the practitioner is instructed to breathe deep into the back and sides of his or her rib cage. When practitioners exhale, they are instructed to note the engagement of their deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles and maintain this engagement as they inhale. Pilates attempts to properly coordinate this breathing practice with movement, including breathing instructions with every exercise. “Above all, learn to breathe correctly.”

Posterior lateral breathing is a way of breathing that facilitates bibasal expansion of the ribcage. To understand this concept properly you have to first learn to expand and release the ribcage without deliberately breathing in or out. The in-breath (inhalation) and out-breath(exhalation) should occur instinctively as a result of the conscious expansion and release of the ribcage. This is how you would do this: You place your hands on your lower ribs with you thumbs facing the back of your ribcage, try not to think of breathing, relax your upper abdominals and expand your ribcage to the side against the soft resistance of your hands. Release the expansion of the ribcage by first melting away the area of the clavicles. You can also try this with a scarf around the lower ribcage. You will not be able to expand and release the ribcage effectively if you try to contract your abdominal muscles to expand the ribcage and if you try to contract the ribcage instead of first release it. Now you should try to duplicate this action with conscious breathing in and breathing out. The in-breath (let it come) widens the ribcage laterally, posteriorly, and superiorly in the ratio of 60:30:10. That is 60% laterally, 30% posteriorly and 10% superiorly. The effect of this ratio of distribution is felt mainly as a back activity. The out-breath (gradually let it out) exits the body first through the gradual and gentle release of tension (intention) in the upper chest and breastbone area, without collapsing the front of the ribcage, and terminates through the activation of the power engine.

 

Power Engine or Powerhouse

Pilates emphasizes the concepts of core strength and stabilization. Students are taught the concepts of core strength and stabilization, as well as to use your “powerhouse” throughout life’s daily activities. As Joseph Pilates called it, your “powerhouse” is the center of your body or your core and if strengthened, it offers a solid foundation for any movement. This power engine is a muscular network which provides the basic control and stability in the lumbopelvic region, which furthermore consists of the Pelvic floor muscles, the Transversus, the Multifidus, the diaphragm, the muscles of the inner thigh, and the muscles encircling the sitting bone area.

You activate the power engine effectively by hollowing of the deep abdominals and pelvic floor muscles (“Deep muscle corset”), by drawing the navel back into the spine in a zipping-up motion, from the pubic bone to the breast bone thereby engaging the heels, the back of the inner thighs, the deep lower back muscles, and the muscles surrounding the sitting bones and tailbone area without inhibiting the natural function of the diaphragm – that is without holding your breath either from lifting the chest upwards or contracting the chest.

Apart from providing core control and stability to the lumbopelvic region, in the sitting position the power engine elevates the torso and places the centre of gravity at its highest and most efficient position; in prone position it elongates the body bi-directionally to reduce weight in the upper body; in supine position it elongates the body bi-directionally and places the centre of gravity again at its highest and most efficient position.

The Power Engine opens up the vertical dimension of the body by grounding the pelvis to the earth and by elevating the spine towards the sky, much like a tree; the pelvis being the root and the branches being the spine.

 

Precautions

Pilates during pregnancy has been claimed to be a highly valuable and beneficial form of exercise, but the use of Pilates in pregnancy should only be undertaken under guidance of a fully trained expert.


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