Pilates: Improve Your Flexibility and Muscle Tone

Pilates: Improve Your Flexibility and Muscle Tone
By Rebecca Naylor

Pilates is an excellent way to trim down your body and strengthen core muscles without bulking up. This style of exercise will teach you how to control your bodys movements and increase your flexibility and grace. This is the secret to many top models and celebritys beautiful physique.

This is one of the best ways to get a workout since it allows you to exercise at home whenever you have the time. It is recommended that you do it at least three times a week. With no commuting to the gym, your time will be your own.
There are two general types of Pilates: one requires equipment, the other only requires a mat. Previously, equipment was too bulky for people to bring home, but now companies have begun to fill the market niche for home workout equipment. DVDs have been made to give you different choices for workouts, either on a mat or with the special equipment.

Before buying a DVD and starting the workout, it is recommended that you take a couple of Pilates classes at your local recreation center. This allows your technique to be corrected to prevent injuries later on.

DVDs and videos are made from beginner to advanced levels, and you will be able to do most of the offered workouts in a small space. Consider purchasing small, inexpensive rings and rollers that allow for variations in the routine and ensure it doesnt get boring.

Reformers are a popular Pilates workout machine as they assist in the workout, or add resistance when necessary. They use a series of springs and ropes to improve your body tone.

If you dont have much space, select the Pilates IQ Reformer. It shortens for easy storage in a closet or under a bed. Specific videos made for this type of machine encourage consistent workouts that will help you lose weight and increase muscle tone.

The Allegro Reformer is great if several people in your family are planning to use Pilates as their workout since it can adjust to accommodate various heights. It comes with a free DVD to show you how to use the machine, plus a workout.The highest quality Pilates equipment for home use is the Studio Reformer it can even match the furniture! It is for professionals or consumers who have the budget for luxury. Choose between cherry, walnut, or mahogany, and upholstery colors in 88 different shades.

Smaller (and cheaper!) pieces of equipment include circles or rings which improve balance and flexibility. Two popular brand names are the Ultra Fit Circle and Flex Ring Toner. They are made of flexible plastic with two padded handles on the inside and outside to allow for resistance as you stretch various muscles.

Foam rollers, mats, fit balls, balance boards, rotator discs, exercise bands, and reformer foot plates or jumper boards, make up the rest of the equipment you can purchase at minimal expense. Only the mat and a DVD or video are necessary for Pilates, but the other equipment can improve your workout and make it more interesting.

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