Break Out Your Mats...It's Pilates Time!

Some years ago I was extremely unfit. Do notice I said unfit and not overweight. Many people seem to think that only people above their average weight are unfit. That is hardly true. A size zero who doesn't exercise is just as unhealthy as anyone of a larger size who doesn't work out. Just thought I should clear that up. Now where was I...



I was always tired, a prime target for whatever illness being spread and my muscles had no definition. I jumped into a cardio work out but I couldn't stick with it because it was so intense all at once. Then I got this great book about Pilates and my muscles began to thank me.

Pilates was invented by Joseph Pilates, a man driven to physical strength following a childhood plagued by ill health. In his desire to make the perfect work out, he drew from all the sports he began to practise as an adult, gymnastics and the like. This method of physical and mental exercise seeks to strengthen your core, i.e. torso, and in doing so also improves the muscle definition of the rest of your body without the bulk.

Better muscular definition is not the only benefit of Pilates. Trust me there's more. Pilates provides:

1. A stronger pelvis floor muscles
2. An increase in weight loss
3. A better posture (in strengthening your core you stabilise muscles necessary for a proper posture)
4. An improvment in circulation
5. An enhanced feeling of balance
6. A decrease in aches, stiffness and illnesses
7. An increase in flexibility
8. A longer and more slender body
9. More energy and alertness
10. A more invigorating sleep

To get the best results from a Pilates work out, practise at least four times a week and group it with proper eating habits and some cardio.After 6 weeks of a this regime, you'll be glad that sacrificed your time.

Get some great pilates exercises at http://www.myfit.ca/exercisedatabase/pilates.asp?pilate=free_pilates_samples.