If you turn on the television
after midnight you'll notice
that the infomercials for
diets, fitness equipment and
exercise tapes are becoming
more and more popular. Do
any of these systems really
deliver what they promise?
Winsor Pilates is one of the
many exercise systems advertised
through infomercials, and
one of the biggest sellers.
With celebrity endorsements
from the likes of Daisy Fuentes
and Madonna, it's hard to
resist the infomercial and
not pick up the phone.
Pilates was developed as a
rehabilitative program for
injured dancers by Joseph
Pilates. The basic premise
is that by strengthening the
core muscles and increasing
flexibility the body will
become toned and more coordinated.
Dancers have used the system
for years, and it is now catching
on with the rest of the fitness
community. Most users report
increased flexibility, coordination,
a lengthening of muscles and
a much stronger "core".
The floor exercises featured
in the tapes all work together
to strengthen the abdominal
muscles and back, called the
"core" in this system. Each
movement involves these important
muscle groups, and the results
are fantastic. Not only do
the abdominal muscles become
more toned, but the entire
midsection is strengthened.
The results are less likelihood
of injury and increased performance
in other fitness activities.
A stronger back is a less
painful back. The pilates
moves are also good for toning
the legs and buttocks.
The moves are slow and deliberate,
requiring not only physical
exertion but concentration
as well. Ensuring that you
are performing the moves correctly
actively involves the mind,
causing us to focus on the
movements of our bodies. This
inevitably reduces stress.
In this way, pilates is similar
to yoga. Many users report
feeling refreshed and relaxed
after the workout, not tired.
Mari Winsor's presentation
of the pilates system is excellent.
She is careful to explain
each move in great detail
so that the beginner can follow
along and do the movements
in proper form. Most beginners
will be discouraged after
their first session, but after
the second or third the movements
will not seem so difficult.
The exercises are useful and
effective for core strengthening.
You won't see pounds just
melt away, however, unless
you combine the workouts with
a sensible eating plan. Mari
includes one for your reference,
but you can use this system
with the weight loss program
you're already on to help
accelerate results.
Of course, you may want to
check with your doctor before
starting any exercise program.
However, Winsor Pilates is
non-aerobic but effective
in toning and strengthening
the core of your body and
may help you lose inches as
well. Winsor Pilates is well
worth a try.
About the Author
Jay Moncliff is the founder
of
http://www.pilatesreviews.info
a website specialized on Winsor
Pilates, resources and
articles. This site provides
updated information on Winsor
Pilates. For more info visit
his site: Winsor
Pilates
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