Winsor Pilates

The Pilates exercise method stems from research and practice by German-born Joseph Pilates. Joseph brought this method of exercise to the US in the 1920s - but was well ahead of his time. Rather than overworking certain muscles whilst listening to loud and pounding music - Pilates is a lower impact approach and is proving very successful - becoming exponentially popular worldwide. This is in part due to celebrities claiming great success from the Pilates Method.

Note: Pronounication is Pih-Lart-eez (not Pie-Laytes)

Pilates program

The Winsor (Windsor) Pilates program is designed to tone and sculpt your entire body and help you lose weight all at the same time. The program has sold an incredible 4 million copies since Mari Winsor first put the program onto videotape. The winsor pilates program is a combination of controlled movements that help to shape long, lean muscles (see more below). The ideal way to do Pilates is to go to a Pilates studio, but failing this, you can try it at home in your living room with a program such as that listed below:

The winsor pilates program includes:

• A set of 3 videos (the basics, body sculpting, and a workout video) - also on DVD.
• A Meal Plan
• Portable exercise guide
• Daily journal

The Winsor Pilates program can be purchased for $9.95 - it is one of the most popular fitness programs in the world - with over 4 million programs sold. There is currently an offer than throws in 2 free bonuses (meal plans, and resistance band).

About the Pilates Method

Pilates exercises are performed on a mat and focus on correct posture and breathing. Through concentration you can begin to gain better alignment and body stance. You are training the body to feel taller and leaner.

Pilates differs from conventional muscle technique (whereby increasing muscle mass means more muscle toning). Rather, Pilates strengthens and stretches muscles to bring about a longer sleeker body. Also, rather than lots of repetition, Pilates aims for low reps with high intensity. Certain muscles such as abdomen and buttock will be worked intensely why other muscles such as arms and legs are stretched.

Pilates is suitable for everyone, but is of particular interest to those who have suffered from injury - as its low impact method is quite different to other aerobic exercises.

Pilates - other sources

Amazon have a dedicated Pilates Store.

One of the more popular books is The Pilates Body: The Ultimate At-Home Guide to Strengthening, Lengthening, and Toning Your Body by Brooke Siler. This one consistently has excellent reviews.