PopSugar

Pilates Images For Everyday Moves

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:00:45 -0800

I am a firm believer that Pilates makes everything better. And when I say firm, I also mean that literally. Pilates is a body/mind method of fitness, or as the very Germanic founder Joe Pilates believed, mind over body. I have found mental images help clients understand the details of basic moves. Here are three images that I have found helpful both inside and outside the Pilates studio.

String bikini abs: To feel your low abdominals engage, mentally draw a line from the top of your right pelvis (the ASIS) to the top of the left. This imaginary line will be about two to three inches below your belly button. Pull that line, your string bikini bottoms, gently toward your spine. This is a great image to help feel your low abs engage while running, walking, or riding.
Balloon head: A tense neck can lead to headaches and upper back problems. If you find your neck tense from holding up your heavy head, imagine that your neck is a string attached to helium balloon. The string can can move easily and the skull is light and floating. This is a great image to relieve neck tension when stuck in traffic.
Soapy shoulder blades: This image comes straight from body/mind guru Eric Franklin and is great for keeping tense shoulders relaxed. Images your shoulder blades are bars of soap that slip easily up and down your back as you shrug your shoulders. If your shoulders are super tense, raise your shoulders to your ears on an inhale and let them drop on the exhale while imagining the soapy shoulder blades sudsing up your back.

DVD Review: Weight Loss - Pilates

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 03:47:39 -0800

Although I'm not a fan of Acasica's title choice for its DVD series being "Weight Loss," I enjoyed Weight Loss - Cardio Sculpt and Weight Loss - Cardio Kick workouts. The latest in the series, Weight Loss - Pilates ($15), didn't disappoint either.

Unlike most Pilates DVDs, which focus on mat exercises, this workout contains some cardio. The instructor, Kristin McGee, leads you through cardio intervals to get your heart rate up and to burn extra calories. There are two 20-minute workouts to choose from, and if you do them with the warmup and cooldown, each workout comes to 33 minutes. If you're craving a longer workout, you can do both back to back.

The cardio portion involves plyometrics, Pilates jumping jacks, Running Plank, and ballet moves such as plies. These moves raised my heart rate and had me feeling a burn in my legs, which is a good thing. The Pilates portion includes basic exercises like the 100s, Double Leg Pulls, and Mermaid Side Planks.

Kristin appears in the Pilates For Beginners DVD too, but I actually liked this video better because it combines Pilates with cardio. My only gripe is that although I appreciated her upbeat and encouraging personality, the instructor seems a bit on the thin side and her slight frame was actually distracting. Aside from that, this is a great toning and light cardio workout to do when you want to exercise at home or on the road.

To see a video clip of this DVD, read more.

If you like what you've seen and heard, you can get a deal and buy all three of the videos from this Weight Loss series for only $38.

Gear Review: Stamina Home Pilates Reformer

FitSugar — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:30:35 -0800

For my birthday this year, I was the lucky recipient of a modified home Pilates reformer. Though it's not quite the reformer you'll see in Pilates studios, it's equipped to give you the same kind of workout to strengthen your core and tone and lengthen muscles. I assembled it just this week and was amazed at how quickly I could get it together, with the help of my husband - you might need an extra set of hands to walk through the assembly, as instructions are a little tricky - but it came mostly put together and didn't take long, about 25 minutes to assemble the rest of it. It comes with a great manual on how to use the machine's different capabilities, complete with pictures, so if you need a little instruction, you've got it - and you're good to go.

To hear what I thought about using my new reformer, just read more

The reformer comes with standard straps with adjustable resistance for arm and leg functionality and, additionally, a trampoline attachment that can be used to substitute the standard foot bar for a cardio component. The machine feels supportive and strong, even while bouncing with the trampoline (like a soft jump board). It's comfortable and easy to use, and the adjustable resistance bands are easy to take in and out of place to change workout intensity. I did a pretty typical Pilates routine and was able to work all areas of my body as if I were in the studio for a full session.

The only real downside was putting the machine away. It's definitely on the heavy side, so even though it folds in half and locks in place, it's actually a little difficult to maneuver at first. But I do like that it folds for more convenient storage, and it's definitely still worth the convenience of having it in your own home. The version I have is the Stamina Pilates 4500 ($179.99, originally $349), and though the model with the trampoline attachment is currently unavailable, Stamina offers a wide range of home Pilates reformers that aren't terribly expensive, especially when you consider the cost of a single Pilates studio session.

View 7 Photos ›

How to Start: Your First Pilates Mat Class

FitSugar — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 09:00:28 -0800

I am a firm believer that Pilates makes for great cross training and that it makes everything better - from running to yoga, from cycling to sex. Nothing like a little lumbar spine mobility coupled with strengthening your pelvic floor to ramp up your sex life (and more than a few of you have resolved to "have more sex" in the new year, so why not make it better too?).

Now that I have captured your attention, let me tell you that a mat class is the simplest and cheapest way to learn Pilates. You have the benefit of a live instructor, unlike a DVD, and it is considerably less expensive than a private session. If you have never taken Pilates, here are a few things to help you through your first mat class.

Arrive to class a little early and introduce yourself to the teacher. Let the instructor know if you have any injuries or concerns. Then grab a mat, stake out a spot where you will be able to see the teacher, and get ready to have some fun.
Wear clothes that are tight enough that the instructor can see your body, but that you can still move in. Leggings and a fitted cotton tank are a great options. Also, classes are sans shoes, but you can wear socks if having bare feet freaks you out.
The classes are generally 55 minutes to an hour, and you don't need to bring a mat. The studio or gym will provide those. Pilates mats are generally thicker than yoga mats since some Pilates moves involve rolling on your spine.

For a few more tips, just read more.

A mat class will work your entire body, but most of the exercises have you either seated or lying on the floor. The beginning of the class should focus on engaging your deep abs in neutral spine as well as with a rounded back. In a classic mat class, the killer abdominal exercise the 100s is the first exercise. If you are taking a beginner class, you will work up to this move.
Aside from a serious focus on ab work, traditional Pilates mat work includes a series of exercises to work the inner and outer thighs, as well as a series to strengthen the back, hamstrings, and glutes. Many classes end with a stretching series that includes exercises like the mermaid and the saw.
You might use some fun props during the class. Don't be surprised if you start out on a foam roller, or squeeze a magic circle or small ball with your inner thighs.

If you are looking for a Pilates studio or instructor, the Balanced Body website has a great studio locator, so you should be able to find a class near you. Still not ready to venture into a class? Then check out our reviews of Pilates DVDs.

DVD Review: Jennifer Kries New Body Pilates II

FitSugar — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 03:00:13 -0800

If Pilates has become your new obsession, you might want to add this intermediate mat workout to your fitness DVD library. Combined with New Body! Pilates, the Jennifer Kries New Body Pilates II DVD will give you a great introduction to the fundamentals and favorite exercises of Pilates practice. The video features the expert Kries explaining the moves as they are demonstrated by her sidekick Kim, so it feels like you're sitting in on a private Pilates lesson or taking one of your own.

Though New Body Pilates II builds on the basics taught in part one, you'll still enjoy the sequel if you haven't seen the first one, as long as you have some basic Pilates knowledge. For all the details, read more.

This 35-minute workout features classic Pilates moves: the rollup, the saw, and several variations on the plank. As Kries explains, the more focused you are, the fewer reps you need to do. On most moves, she guides you through about eight reps, though in some cases, she suggests you can do more if you have more time.

The slow-paced workout won't wear you out, but the moves get more and more challenging toward the end, so if it feels too easy at first, just wait a few minutes! If you've got some energy left, I also recommend the 10-minute arm-sculpting bonus workout at the end, which is best performed with one- or two-pound weights. I'll definitely be returning to this DVD in the new year.

DVD Review: Pilates For Beginners

FitSugar — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 03:00:42 -0800

Pilates is synonymous with a strong core, so if you're looking to tone up your middle, and have never tried this form of fitness before, check out Pilates For Beginners ($15). This hour-long video is broken up into four segments: two 10-minute programs and two 20-minute programs. You can get in a quick workout if you're pressed for time, or complete all four when your schedule is more flexible.

The Core Warm-Up includes some basic Pilates exercises like the 100s, the twist, and Saw Off Your Baby Toe. The next segment, called Core Connection, leads you through some inner thigh and glute exercises, but they seemed very easy and I didn't really feel the burn instructor Kristin McGee was talking about.

The third segment was the first of the 20-minute workouts, called Foundation Work, and my favorite of the four. I was happy that she began with the tough ab exercise called single leg stretch, and then moved onto the double leg stretch. This part of the video was definitely more challenging, and focused primarily on the upper and lower abs. The last workout, Strong Backside, as the title implies, included exercises to tone your tush and inner and outer thighs, such as leg lifts and the cancan. In each workout, simple yoga stretches were included such as Butterfly, Seated Straddle, and Seated Spinal Twist.

I really appreciated how the instructor was extremely clear with her language and directions. There was a lot of mat work in this video, and as I lay on the floor, I didn't feel like I had to jerk my head up to watch the TV. I could just listen to her instructions and her counting, and know I was doing it right. This video is very basic, so it'd be perfect if you're new to Pilates and wanting to try it out in the privacy of your own home.

Interested in checking it out before you buy it? Watch a video clip of Pilates For Beginners when you read more.

Get on the Ball: Ab Rollover

FitSugar — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 07:00:07 -0800

Using an exercise ball is a great way to strengthen your core. Here's a fun, effective exercise you can add to your routine that will work your middle. And because you're squeezing the ball with your feet, you'll also get a killer workout for your inner thighs.

Music: "Saint Agnes and the Burning Train" by Sting

For step-by-step instructions, read more.

Lie on your back, holding an exercise ball between your feet. Place your arms by the sides of your body, palms facing down. Lift the ball so it's a few inches above the floor. Really pull your abs to your spine, rounding your low back into the floor. This is the start position.
On an inhale, lift the ball into the air, and lift your hips off the floor, bringing your legs over your face so the ball is above your head.
As you exhale, pull your navel to your spine as lower your hips and legs toward the floor, rolling through your spine one vertebra at a time, coming back to the start position. This counts as one rep. Complete three sets of 10 to 12 reps.

This is a nice stretch for the back. If you hate ab work, just tell yourself you're doing an elaborate stretch for your spine.

Pop Pilates: Upper Body Workout

OnSugar Blog — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:00:36 -0800

Here's a video workout from OnSugar blog Blogilates.

This Pilates video concentrates on the upper body and was specially created by request! You'll be sore tomorrow in your arms, chest, and shoulders and you're gonna love it.
Songs in this workout: "She Wolf" by Shakira"Tic Tok" by Kesha"Starstruck" by Lady Gaga featuring Space Cowboy and Flo Rida

Want to see more? Start following Blogilates or start your own OnSugar Blog. Maybe your stories will be posted here on FitSugar!

Gear Review: Modern Union Yoga Bag

FitSugar — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:00:03 -0700

Dealing with my yoga mat when I ride to the gym can be a pretty tricky feat. I have a bike basket that I can tie it to but it always throws me off balance. That's why I was really excited to find these messenger bags from Modern Union ($68). The bags were designed by yoga studio owners Stephanie Ofanankis and Belinda Osborne because the partners couldn't find a yoga bag that met their lifestyle needs - lucky me!

First off, I love the textiles they chose - simple, colorful, and modern. Beyond that it's a great bag to take to the gym or use on your days off. The straps on the bottom of the bag keep a yoga mat secure, and I like that there are outside pockets for a water bottle and cell phone. The inside of the bag is roomy enough to carry gym essentials or even a laptop. Inside are a bunch of smaller pockets so things don't get lost, including a key ring holder.

Most importantly these Modern Union bags make commuting on a bike so easy. There's a padded shoulder strap for comfort and a magnetic closure, which is great in case you need to get in and out of your bag quickly if you're stopped at a light. An added bonus is each bag is made out of durable cordura, meaning it won't be ripping, scuffing, or tearing on you anytime soon and it's water resistant.

Anna Paquin Shares Her Healthy Habits

FitSugar — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:30:08 -0700

With her fresh face and healthy physique, True Blood star Anna Paquin has made a graceful transition from child star to sexy vamp. In this week's issue of Us, the recently engaged, 27-year-old actress talks about the healthy habits that keep her feeling and looking great.

Paquin understands the importance of mixing up her fitness routine. "I'm obsessed with Pilates," says the star. But she also loves swimming in the ocean and recently took her first surf lesson.
A big fan of watching gymnastics on TV, Paquin once dabbled in trapeze arts: "I've always wanted to be a circus performer, so I took aerial silks classes at Trapeze School New York a few years ago."
Since staying healthy isn't just about exercising, Paquin gets plenty of rest and avoids unhealthy habits. She says she takes a lot of naps and that "Kombucha and coffee are my two biggest vices."

If those are here only vices, I can understand how she looks so good! Do you think she's a good role model?