Alternative Healthy Lifestyle

Tips for A Healthy Lifestyle


Friday, September 22, 2006

Things to consider when beginning pilates!

Pilates

Hi all,
Today, I would like to share with the beginners what are the things to consider before beginning Pilates.

Pilates workouts can benefit people of any age that are in any degree of physical condition. However, getting in to the activity can be difficult when one doesn’t know what to do. To that end, we’ve composed this article to help you get to know a little bit about the exercise routine and what you need to do to prepare yourself for beginning pilates workouts.

There are over 500 different types of exercises that make up pilates. It can be an astounding number when you first consider it, but over time, you’ll get used to the routines that you are getting into and it won’t be as overwhelming.

One important thing to note for a person that is beginning pilates is that the exercises may seem to be extremely hard when you are first starting out. It’s important to not be discouraged by this aspect, as your body needs to adjust to several changes as you get deeper into your pilates routine. Be sure to begin to practice slowly without trying to jump right in, and you’ll find that it will be easier to adjust.

If you’re looking for a place to begin your pilates routine, you probably won’t have to look far. Most major fitness centers have caught on to the pilates craze, and having an instructor can truly benefit your pilates experience. In addition to keeping you focused by not wanting to disappoint your instructor, they can also be of assistance should you be performing an exercise incorrectly.

When signing up for a pilates class, you’re going to want to ask the instructor what supplies you need to bring. While some classes offer all the pilates equipment for you, others may expect you to bring your own equipment. Most beginning pilates classes incorporate the use of a mat, first and foremost. Even if the fitness center that you’ll be exercising at offers mats for you to use, you may want to bring your own for hygiene reasons.

Also, some beginner pilates classes make use of exercise balls in order to perform some of the exercises. If the fitness center isn’t supplying the balls, you should make note and purchase one yourself. As far as proper workout clothing goes for pilates, comfort is key. You don’t need to worry about shoes – you’ll be taking them off. To keep comfortable, most pilates instructors recommend loose cotton clothing.

Another important thing to remember when you are learning the basics of pilates is that the exercise focuses on proper technique as opposed to repetition. It’s important to keep your movements as controlled as you can, focusing on keeping your movements slow and concentrating on the muscle groups that you are trying to develop.

If you’re looking for pilates to be your exclusive exercise program, you may want to consider some type of aerobic activity on the side, such as jogging. Since pilates isn’t a high-intensity workout, it can help you to keep fit and expend some energy when you pair it with an aerobic activity.

Ok, that's all for today sharing.

Till we 'meet' again, have fun with Pilates.

Cheers.



Pilates

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Tuesday, September 19, 2006

This Is My Story!

Hi all,
Good day to you.

Just like to drop you a short note.

I have started a new blog Lamb of God Gift of Faith sharing my stories about how the Lord has been blessing me all these years.

Even if you are not a Christian, I believe you will enjoy my little stories.

Happy reading.

Cheers.

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Sunday, September 17, 2006

Pilates Tips for Beginners!

Pilates

Hi all,
A Very Good Weekend To You.

For today sharing, I just like to go back to the basic..........

Pilates Tips for Beginners

Pilates is everywhere these days. This hot trend in fitness is popular for a reason. The strength and natural flexibility that can be achieved through regular practice exceeds almost any other form of exercise. If you are interested in getting toned, increasing your flexibility, improving your posture and flexibility, then pilates may be just what you have been looking for you.

To get started, you can purchase a pilates program that you can do at home through DVD or video. However, because pilates places a great emphasis on precision and concentration, it is a good idea to take classes with an experienced instructor who can ensure that you are doing the movements correctly and safely.

To find a pilates class near you, check out the offerings from your local YMCA, community college, or recreation center. In many areas, there are now professional pilates studios that offer classes on a pay-per-lesson basis, or you can purchase a whole block of lessons. Make sure the instructor has received professional certification in pilates, with hundreds of hours in training.

In most cases, you can choose between mat training and machine work. Pilates studio classes usually focus on mat work, while professional gyms are more likely to be equipped with pilates machines. Whatever focus you choose to pursue, make sure your studio or gym offers lessons at the beginner level. Also, you should be certain that your class offers supervision from an experienced instructor who can modify any move for a beginner.

If you are like most beginners, you will probably start off with pilates mat program. Most mat programs follow a sequence that allows you to begin with easy exercises and gradually move to more advanced movements in a natural progression.

It is important that you start off at a beginner level, no matter your fitness level or previous experience with other strength training programs. Joseph H. Pilates, the founder of Pilates, designed the sequences so that one must follow the other.

To get the most of your pilates workout, focus on your breath. Experienced instructors will teach their students to use their breath in conjunction with the body. Your instructor will teach you how to keep a steady breathing rhythm that complements the movements. Like yoga, one of the fundamental goals of pilates is to unite the body and mind. Remember that one of the goals in doing pilates is not just to stretch and tone, but relieve stress and anxiety.

One of the great things about pilates is that you don't need a lot of equipment to get started. Simply make sure to wear comfortable clothes during your pilates sessions. This may include a T-shirt or tank top coupled with tights, sweats, or shorts. Like yoga, pilates is usually done without shoes. Purchase a mat you can work on. This cushioning ensures that you are practicing on a soft, pliable and safe surface. Pay attention to your body while practicing pilates. If you feel any pain or stress, you should stop.

Okie, that's all for my sharing on Pilates today.

Please visit my new website www.PilatesEssential.com for more info and a free report on "Windsor Pilates".

Till we 'meet' again, have fun with Pilates.


Cheers.



Pilates
www.PilatesEssential.com

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