Get In Shape with Pilates

encompasses my love for all things Pilates is a fitness program that is very accommodating to beginners. There are many ways to practice this form of exercise, from private instruction, semi-private instruction, group classes, books, DVD's and there are even online instructions for Pilates.

Many people have concerns about starting a Pilates program. There are also some misconceptions about Pilates that I hope to clear up here.

MYTH #1

Pilates is for people who are in good shape already and it is very difficult.

Not true! I found that Pilates is all encompassing. Women and men at all levels of fitness can benefit and quickly build strength using Pilates. While it isn't 'easy', it allows you to build strength and tone quickly and will have you feeling stronger within the first two weeks.

MYTH #2

Pilates only works on reducing flabby abs

While Pilates is really great for building your abs and core strength, it doesn't ignore the rest of your body. It works to create a strong, flexible body. A Pilates exercise routine works on all your leg muscles, arms muscles, and by working on your abdominals it also strengthens your back, a great benefit to everyone, especially to those with back pain.

MYTH #3

Pilates is just for women

Pilates was actually developed by a man, Joseph Pilates, and he was a gymnast, boxer and military trainer. While it is very popular with women, it is not exclusively for women. There are male Pilates instuctors and male Pilates clients,but because so many women have entered the field and become trainers/instructors, perhaps that affected people's perceptions.

How to choose a Pilates trainer

1. Make sure your trainer is a certified Pilates instructor.
This certification requires many months of study.

2. Does your instructor pay attention to the needs of the individual students?
Because Pilates is adaptable to all types and levels of students, it's important that your instructor pay attention to your individual needs.

3. Is your instructor professional and knowledgeable?
Can she/he make modifications to the exercises to accommodate your specific needs.

4. Do you understand the instructions your instructor describes to complete each exercise?
There should be good verbal and visual communication so that you know exactly how to complete each exercise correctly to get the greatest benefit.

5. Did you enjoy your class and do you feel invigorated?

6. Did you feel motivated by your instructor?

Why Pilates is a good workout for Men

Pilates develops core strength, balance, and flexibility. These are all important to men's fitness.
Instead of concentrating on building muscle mass, as in a weightlifting program, Pilates will build a powerhouse of strength in the deep muscles of your core and give stabilization to the trunk and protect the back.
It is a great technique for whole-body fitness and can be used in conjunction with other forms of exercise.

My Favorite Studio

I started Pilates not quite a month ago and have realized greater strength and stability already. I feel stronger and more comfortable in my body than I have in years.

I go to my local IMX Pilates Studio. They have both individual and semi-private training and use 'Integrated Movement Xercise' machines that incorporate with the standard Pilates movements, resistance training and plyometric jumps for a more athletic workout to tone and lose inches quickly.

I highly recommend the 'IMX Pilates' program and they have studios across the country.

I work with IMX Pilates in Sparks, Nevada. They are a great group of people and the owners, David and Lynette Marshall are a pleasure to work with.
They have four certified pilates instructors, including the owner, Lynette. If you live in the Reno/Sparks/Tahoe area, please stop in and visit their studio. You can reach them on their website IMX Pilates

Start feeling good again! Get involved in pilates!