Pilates Instruction & Where to Turn

Pilate's instruction seems to have taken our country by storm. It is a great form of exercise, which does not put excessive stress on any body parts. Only upon doing research does one find out it is a century old form of fitness. That's right. A century old. Here is a little background into the history of Pilates:

Joseph Pilates began introducing students to his slow and smooth moving exercises back in the early 1900's. He emphasized a coordination of deep breathing exercises with specific muscle exercises. He developed various exercise machines with pulleys and weights, developed a series of "mat exercises", and became known for helping others obtain better fitness without putting excessive strain on the heart and lung systems.

Throughout the years Pilates (hereby known as the "instruction method") has been used in sports training, physical rehabilitation, and dancer training - to name a few areas. Students of Pilates are obtaining better balance, increased lung capacity, and increased joint health, etc. The benefits obtained by using Pilates instruction are innumerable. Who does not want better muscle tone and strength?

A definite benefit of Pilates instruction is the fact that individuals of all physical stages and ages can practice it. In fact, Joseph Pilates first began teaching his exercises/method on rheumatic students.

If you want to partake in the fitness routine known as Pilates, there are a variety of ways to begin.
For real-life classes involving Pilates instruction:

1) Classes are offered through fitness centers throughout the country.

2) Classes are also offered in adult education, or community education venues.

3) Classes are offered privately by individual Pilates experts. Look in your phone book or network. Many individuals offer Pilates classes through fitness centers. They may leave their business card in fitness centers. Check around.

4) Classes are offered at yoga centers.

5) Classes are offered through private Pilates studios.

For private classes involving Pilates instruction:

1) Pilates experts provide one-on-one training. Find them through fitness centers, phone books, or networking.

2) Buy a instruction book on Pilates exercises. Practice the moves at your own convenience.

3) Buy one of the infomercials offering Pilates programs. Guthy-Renker has a popular one out now.
a. Programs usually offer a video or CD
b. Programs may also offer some equipment and/or manual.

4) Get on your computer and search for online Pilates instruction classes. There are a number of sites available at varying prices for you to choose from. These online sites will help you develop your own exercise regime. How much more convenient can you get?

5) Rent a Pilates instruction video. This is a great way to see what the moves are like. Take notes.

6) Rent a Pilates instruction DVD. Same as renting a video. Learn the Pilates exercise moves and write them down.

Is Pilates a "flash in the pan"? Or, is it a current craze? No, it is a time-tested method for anyone interested in getting physically fit.