The Pilates workout is done using either a mat on the floor or a Pilates exercise machine. Both methods use resistance to strengthen and tone your body.

The mat program follows a sequence of exercises which progress naturally from one to the next. It is important to do the exercises in the correct order and to complete the workout. These exercises use the body as its own resistance to strengthen and tone muscles.

There are several machines used for the Pilates workout, such as the Reformer, the Wunda Chair, and the Cadillac. The machines themselves provide the resistance that Pilates is founded upon. Participants do a series of exercises in a certain order, each one flowing smoothly into the next without pausing.

Typically, a Pilates workout lasts about an hour and contains thirty or more exercises. Pilates movements are meant to engage the whole body. They don’t use repetition; they emphasize correct form with fewer repetitions and then move on to the next movement.

During your Pilates workout, it is necessary to breathe in synch with your body movements. Concentrate on precise control of your breathing. Proper breathing oxygenates your muscles and also reduces stress. Participants are instructed to engage their deep abdominal muscles as they inhale. Breathing instructions are part of every exercise.

Avoid quick, jerky movements when doing a Pilates workout. Your movements should be slow, but strong, flexible and controlled.

Pilates exercises are designed to be done slowly. You can increase your heart rate by doing the exercises quickly (while maintaining proper form). Or you can alternate with a cardiovascular workout like biking, walking or even tennis.

Pilates will lengthen your spine, build muscle tone, strengthen your “core” muscles and increase your flexibility. This method is an excellent way to recover from injuries (but check with your doctor and physical therapist first).

If you want to condition your body from head to toe, Pilates is the workout for you. With over 500 different exercises to choose from, there is a Pilates workout for everyone.

About The Author

Sharon Sweeny is a creative copywriter, specializing in gardening and self sufficient, do-it-yourself lifestyles. She divides her free time among her garden in Minneapolis, alternately juggling half a dozen creative projects and blogging on gardening while pondering the exact location of Frostbite Falls, Minnesota.

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