Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Important Things to Know Before Buying a Pilates Mat

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mariah_Johnston]Mariah Johnston
A mat is one of the most important equipment for workout, especially when you are doing an exercise to build your strength and flexibility. Since this type of exercise requires you to have a padded surface under your body to provide you balance and stability. There are different kinds of mats available in the market for doing different exercises and you should make sure to choose a correct mat for you. A correct mat will help you in doing each movement while doing Pilates exercises with comfort and in right way.
Many people choose to buy a Pilates mat for practicing Pilate at home. Pilate concept is relatively new but its popularity in increasing with every passing day and the reason of this increase are the exceptional results people have experienced.

There is a huge difference in a Pilates Mat comparing to an aerobic mat or a yoga mat. This is because yoga and aerobic exercises have different poses and need solid support from the ground while for doing Pilates workout effectively the base need to be soft.

You can find Pilate mats in your local fitness or sports stores or you can also find a large variety online. These mats have been designed in many colors, shapes and sizes so you always have plenty of choices to choose from. Buying a mat for your home requires more attention and it is important to always consult with your instructor before buying a mat as he can give you accurate measurements for length, breath and the thickness of the mat.

These mats are available in different qualities and prices both in the market and also on the internet to satisfy almost any pocket. You can get quotes from different vendors before buying. If you are trying to save on the budget, there are also second hand mats that can be found in the shop next door or on the internet.

Pilate mats require no maintenance in general. However, there are few simple guidelines to maintain and clean your Pilates mat depending on the material used on the surface of the mat. To learn more about the types of mats you can visit some Pilates exercise centers or you can check some Pilate DVD's and websites that direct you to exercise.

Always remember to follow your instructor while working on the mat. Improper posture can lead to injury and back pain. Also, do not overdo any exercises on the mat for a result. Just follow the instructions may give you a good body.
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Sunday, February 12, 2012

Elements of Successful Pilates - Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joanna_Ng]Joanna Ng
Pilates has become extremely popular over the last few years, and it's no wonder. It has many wonderful health benefits and can be an effective rehabilitation method. It improves your posture, strengthens your core, relieves pain and much more.
While it is not hard to start on a program doing Pilates on your own, there are some criteria to note on your Pilates training journey.
No Injury or Existing Health Condition
If you have a prior existing health issue like bulging disc or suffer from chronic neck pain or similar, it is not advisable to start with doing Pilates on your own. You have to seek professional help in getting it looked at and resolved. Doing Pilates with pre health conditions put you at risk for further injury and pain. It is wise to consult professional help to be certain you are safe and are ready.
Clock 20 hours
You may ask why the need to invest in at least 20 hours of experience on Pilates machine like the reformer with a Pilates instructor before starting your DIY program? Without a good understanding and solid foundation on what Pilates is all about, it is like going on a trip not knowing where your destination is.
There are a number of important fundamentals that anyone new to Pilates need to understand in order to be effectively safe and see results. There are also certain terminologies to master and machine set up to learn. Once you've taken a few classes and are comfortable with how to use the equipment, you can start on your own. As you gain experience, you could also mix your routine up, and do the mat exercises at home, and the Pilates reformer exercises in the studio.
Be Disciplined & Consistent
Once you are ready to embark on DIY Pilates, plan your schedule to do at least 3 times in a week to achieve results. Research has proven anything less than this, allows for very slow progress. Learn to take responsibility in taking care of yourself in your journey for a strong and fitter body. Be disciplined and stay on track without distraction.  Besides these, do condition your body and mind continuously to avoid side tracking. These are the 2 main reasons cited by most people when they failed.
Work with Professionals
It is a good idea to start   rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]Pilates DIY with a good Pilates instructor as it cuts down the possibility of making mistakes and doing the wrong things. Doing the wrong things from the start means you have to unlearn and re-learn. And some mistakes takes a long time to go away as it has becomes a bad habit by the time you are aware of it. Working with an instructor creates value in ensuring your program is customized accordingly to your needs. It is safe and effective. In the long run, you learn and pick up tips on the "how, what, where, when" etc. You become well informed. This knowledge makes it possible for you to have an "intelligent" body and mind.
DIY Pilates can be performed anywhere, both on mat and machine. The former is more portable and you can do it anywhere on a mat. A reformer is less flexible and may have to be used only in Pilates studios. It may seem intimidating at first; but once you get more confident with practice, it is easy and simple to use.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Elements-of-Successful-Pilates---Do-It-Yourself-(DIY)&id=6556730] Elements of Successful Pilates - Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

Friday, February 10, 2012

Pilates Mat Vs Pilates Machine - The Key Difference

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joanna_Ng]Joanna Ng
When most people mentioned Pilates, they usually take it that it is done on the mat. Beginners to Pilates, prefer to start with pilates mat exercises thinking it is much easier and the way to go before progressing on to the reformer, which looks rather threatening and tough.
There are definite differences between using Pilates equipment, namely the reformer verses just doing Pilates on the mat. Here are some basic differences that are obvious to all.
Pilates mat exercises are great if you have limited space at home and you want to train at home or anywhere. The mat is very portable, takes up much less room, and is less expensive than a machine. You can roll it up and put it away when you are done with your workout. You can take it with you on vacation, or even to work. You will get a fantastic work out in the comfort of your own home or just about anywhere you like unlike the bulky machine.
However, these are other more important factors to consider when making a decision. Ask yourself the following questions:
Do you have any core strength?
Do you suffer from some kind of chronic pain?
Are you tight and stiff and wants to improve flexibility?
Joseph Pilates created the Pilates equipment pieces to assist his patients in the army camp. The purpose is to support the human body and make it safe and easy for his injured or de-conditioned patients to get stronger.
All the machines like the Trapeze Table, Reformer, Stability Chair, Ladder Barrel and more are created to make some routines that seems impossible, possible. We took most daily activities for granted. For instance, people who had lower back injury, lost their strength and flexibility of the spine. It is not easy for them to get out and up from a chair.
Here are more reasons why Pilates equipment is your obvious choice.
1. Support & Challenge
Most beginners new to Pilates are weak and have no core strength. It is hard to have   them try to lift their hips off the floor in mat exercises. In a standard mat repertoire of Pilates routines, there are a number of such routines. If we take the same exercise onto the reformer for instance, it will be much easier. With both feet in the foot straps, the resistance of the spring helps to support this same hip lift. There is no struggling, holding of breath or tension from shoulders in an effort to perform this routine. This is just one of the many examples of the kind of exercises that can be easily performed on the reformer.
2. Economy of Time
When you compare the result of working 60mins on mat verses on the machine over a period of time, it has been proven people working with machines are stronger, have better overall muscular strength and endurance. In fact, they developed better stamina and core as well. Given that we are all busy individuals busy with hectic life to run, it is certainly wise to consider this as a major factor in better management of time schedule.
3. Effective Resistance
Working with springs as a form of resistance gives you an effective edge over body resistance. Springs can be adjusted according to your fitness level and the specific routine to be performed. It can also be loaded heavy to assist in pelvic lifts and lighten up for simple arm range of motion. Body resistance usually does not change, unless one starts to put on weight from no exercise or any other reasons. Hence, there is no possibility of increase body weight to challenge you further.
Resistance gives muscle its tone and definition, effectively strength. It also prevents osteoporosis, the loss of bone density. Working with resistance also improves metabolic rate which burns more calories when the body is at rest.
4. Result Orientated
Pilates on mat achieved results over time like Pilates equipment does. But nothing beats the kind of achievement you can get from working on the machines. Each machine can target specific angle of the body, enabling it to work deeper and more effective. On mat, if a certain range of motion is not possible due to body limitations like inflexibility of a certain joint, it is wise not to force it to avoid injury.
These are just some great reasons why Pilates machines triumphs over mat work. Do a combination of both to see the results for yourself!
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Pilates-Mat-Vs-Pilates-Machine---The-Key-Difference&id=6557301] Pilates Mat Vs Pilates Machine - The Key Difference

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

CYQ Accreditation for Pilates Training Programmes

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Simona_Rusnakova]Simona Rusnakova
The CYQ accreditation for Pilates training programmes is something that the school you learn from should have. This accreditation is recognised world-wide and offers students a wide range of benefits. It is best that you know a bit more about the accreditation, why your school should have it as well as the benefits you will get.
What is the origin of this accreditation for Pilates teacher training?
The first place you should look when dealing with this accreditation for Pilates teacher training is where it comes from. The YMCA offers a number of qualifications and the CYQ accreditation is one of them. The CYQ is actually the official accreditation unit for the European Health and Fitness Association. This was done in order to create a European benchmark of quality in training in this industry.
What is CYQ accreditation for Pilates training?
Now that you know a bit about the origin of the accreditation you should look at what it actually is. When dealing with Pilates training the CYQ accreditation is given to the teaching institute. This is only given to schools that have a certain standard in their training courses. This standard is the one set by the EHFA and the Register of Exercise Professionals in the Republic of Ireland. Some institutes will receive this accreditation for all of their courses while other may only have it for some of them. The reason for this is that there are many different areas that these qualifications cover.
Why should school offer this Pilates certification?
There are a lot of reasons for why a school should offer this Pilates certification. By offering this the students they train will be at a standard that is accepted world-wide. It is also good to know that there are different levels of training in this available. It is also important to know that there are certifications in different areas of fitness and health. A school will be able to offer you more than one certification if they have been accredited.
How do students benefit from these Pilates courses?
Students can gain a number of benefits if the school they do through Pilates courses through is CYQ accredited. The first benefit you will get is the standard of training you receive. As the CYQ requires a certain standard level for training courses it is ensured that you will not receive sub-par training. If you get a qualification from an accredited school it will hold you in higher standing in the industry. Most industry experts have greater respect for those who have a qualification certified by CYQ. In certain countries like Ireland you will be able to register with the governing board of exercise professionals once you have completed your training. The fact that this is recognised world-wide means that you will be able to go to another country and your qualification will still be valid.
When you are looking to study a Pilates training programme you should know about CYQ accreditation. The school or institute you study through should be accredited in order to give you training that are at a standard recognised by the European boards.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?CYQ-Accreditation-for-Pilates-Training-Programmes&id=6581661] CYQ Accreditation for Pilates Training Programmes

Monday, February 6, 2012

Why Pilates Is Your Best Option for Back Pain?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marion_Mccants]Marion Mccants
Perhaps you have already heard about the different ways to get rid of back pain. Actually, there are so many ways for you to choose from when talking about how to deal with this particular problem. However, this does not mean that you can just immediately jump into a certain option without knowing all the important things that you should know.
In order to make your condition better and for your safety, you should be aware on what's the best option to gradually eliminate back pain. Speaking of the best option, you can take a look into what they call the "Pilates".
By definition, Pilates is an exercise system that is really intended for people who are suffering from back pain, regardless if it refers to upper back pain or lower back pain. The word Pilates was actually taken from the name of the person who was able to develop this system, Joseph Pilates.
This exercise system is said to be a combination of yoga and some exercises that can strengthen your muscles. This is why it is good for back pain. Basing on the fact that back pain can be caused by poor/improper posture, exercises that will help in strengthening the core muscles which would be one of the keys to correct poor/improper posture are really great. In addition, it will also encourage you to focus on how you breathe, how you move and more.
Evidently, different types of exercises are really ideal for back pain but you should remember that this not mean all types of exercises. There are some exercises that will help you improve your condition especially if they are not really suitable for it. This is why you should be very careful in when choosing the types of exercises that you are going to perform to help alleviate your back pain.
You have to choose an exercise system that would really be effective and safe for you like Pilates. As a proof of its effectiveness, a lot of fitness centers, rehabilitation centers and even hospitals consider this particular exercise system to help improve the overall condition of their clients/patients. Thus, it would be best that you also take a look into this option.
But of course, always remember to talk to your doctor first before joining your first Pilates session. Your doctor would know if it is suitable for your condition or not. This is something that you should never forget because sometimes, even if something is associated with a lot of benefits, it may not do anything good for you. Instead of improving your condition, it may just make things worse.
So take some time to discuss this matter with your doctor and listen to what he has to say. If everything's fine, then you can go ahead and join your first Pilates session. Do not let back pain affect your daily activities at work or at home and your life as a whole. Do not allow yourself to suffer from this problem if you know how to get rid of it.
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Saturday, February 4, 2012

How to Make the Best Out of Your Pilates DVDs

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ash_Kali]Ash Kali
Pilates is an exercise that increases strength, flexibility and helps the alignment of the body. It makes the perfect at-home workout because it can be done anywhere with a flat surface, with the mere help of a mat. No wonder Pilates DVDs have become one of the most in demand fitness DVDs over the past decade.
If you are thinking of starting a DIY fitness regime at home, here are a few tips.
Take a Pilates class first
Ok, I know I'm contradicting myself here, but the point is, you have to get the basics right first before you start to DIY. What you have learned from your Pilates class with an instructor will supplement your Pilates workouts at home. Some would rather go for beginner Pilates DVDs, and it's up to your preference, but my recommendation from my own experience, is to learn the basic principles with an instructor first.
Pick a DVD that is suitable to your skill level and goals
What is your current skill level in Pilates? Are you a beginner, intermediate or more advanced? How many minutes can you commit each day for your fitness routine? The key is to assess these first, then check out Pilates DVD reviews online. Best-sellers don't necessarily mean they are suitable to your needs. From the reviews, find out the length of the workout, the focus of the workout (total body workout is the best), the pace, and whether the instructor gives proper breath cueing and demonstration throughout the workout. If your daily commitment is only 20-minutes, for example, you may want to choose a DVD that allows you to mix and match workouts of 10 to 20 minutes in length. Another important factor is that you have to find an instructor that you would love listening to. The personality of the instructor is very crucial because you will end up chucking aside those DVDs if you find the instructor uninteresting. 
Set a specific time of the day to workout
When you have made a commitment to exercise, make sure to stick with it. Find your preferred or most available time of the day to workout. If you schedule your exercise by giving priority to your day-to-day events, you'll end up going with the flow and never be able to stick to your routine. Personally, I find early mornings or late in the evenings the ideal time that allows me to keep my routine intact.
Keep your workouts varied
Pilates focuses more on body conditioning. To have a more balanced fitness regime, it's best to alternate it with a form of cardio exercise, like jogging or swimming, about 3 times a week. And also, switch between 2 to 3 Pilates DVDs to keep your workouts interesting. It's boring to be doing the same routine everyday, and your body will become used to it, slowing down the results.
Keep challenging yourself
You've probably heard people saying about strength training exercise that you have to "increase the repetitions" and "increase the weights" as you progress. In Pilates, advancement is not about increasing the repetitions, but more about how you perform more effectively using your powerhouse (the core muscles that consist of abdominals, obliques and the back) and how you perform with ease each movement as you progress. If you have been working out to the beginner DVD for 6 months and it has become too easy, it's time to move on to a DVD with an intermediate skill level. Don't be afraid to up your challenge, your body will thank you for that.
Pilates workout at home with DVDs can be as effective as enrolling in a class if you do it the proper way, and keep your workouts interesting to stay motivated. Find reviews of the best Pilates DVDs [http://pilatesathome.net/best-pilates-dvds-reviewed]here.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Make-the-Best-Out-of-Your-Pilates-DVDs&id=6583787] How to Make the Best Out of Your Pilates DVDs

Thursday, February 2, 2012

See Stott Pilates Fitness DVD For Great Exercise Ideas

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Glen_Skinkle]Glen Skinkle
Pilates exercise methods are very popular in the USA and other western countries, and the use of Stott Pilates fitness exercise methods and equipment is a way of using the Pilates method to increase the strength of essential core muscles, such as the back, the spine including the neck region, and pelvic positioning. The different types of exercise can be self-taught by watching one of the many Stott Pilates DVD guides around. Using the DVDs allows people to be independent of instructors and other Pilates teachers, instead concentrating on creating an exercise regime which is suitable for the individual.
There is a lot of equipment featured on this. This is because this particular style of exercise focuses more upon correcting the positions of important muscle areas. The particular exercise machines devised for Stott Pilates are designed so that the spine, the ribcage and the scapular are put into a position where they can support the surrounding muscles, improving exercise techniques and fitness gained by these routines. There are also many different forms of Stott Pilates fitness regimes, which can differ between companies, or even individual instructors.
Everyone who has ever struggled to find an exercise style to suit their busy lives, but also works to improve fitness and strength, should consider the Stott Pilates method. These exercises can be used to create a perfect background to other fitness regimes, or even as a precursor to anaerobic exercise methods such as weightlifting. As the routines are so easy to follow, and perfectly designed to give the body a complete workout in one go and improve the health of the follower it certainly is reasonable to use this as your primary exercise method as well. Stott Pilates fitness plans can work for both the beginner, and the more experienced exerciser.
This is because this specific method of exercise concentrates more on correcting the positions of significant muscle regions. The particular exercise machines devised for Stott Pilates are developed to ensure that the spine, the ribcage and the scapular are placed into a position where they could support the surrounding muscle tissue, improving exercise methods and fitness gained by these regimes. There are also several different kinds of Stott Pilates fitness routines, which could differ between firms, or even individual instructors.
In order to find out more about the types of Stott Pilates DVD programs available, you may want to visit a website where peers review all of the DVDs. This will help the individual interested in fitness to understand the different methods offered, and find the one which is right for them. DVD reviews will often give the reader a general idea of the content of the programs, as well, which means that visitors can look at several different DVDs, and decide which one will suit them the best. Your final decision may be to select two or three different DVDs to meet your individual needs and create a complete work-out program.
Many people are embracing Pilates. It is a great form of exercise for both toning and strengthening the muscles throughout the body, as well as preventing injury and back pain. Visit [http://stottpilatesdvdreview.org]http://stottpilatesdvdreview.org/ to know more about [http://stottpilatesdvdreview.org]stott pilates fitness.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?See-Stott-Pilates-Fitness-DVD-For-Great-Exercise-Ideas&id=6586066] See Stott Pilates Fitness DVD For Great Exercise Ideas