Winsor Pilates

Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century and gained popularity with professional dancers. However, fitness expert, Mari Winsor’s work with celebrities and professional athletes has made “pilates” a household name. Mari Winsor has developed Pilates workout tapes, but these tapes cannot take the place of Pilates classes. Classes are still strongly encouraged because they can help people develop proper form and breathing techniques.

Pilates is a series of floor exercises that help to strengthen and tone the body as well as increase flexibility and cooRDInation. The Pilates exercises are meant to help you obtain a “long, lean, sculpted look.” Pilates is good for people who want to increase their overall health and fitness level and not just lose weight. The Pilates work out focuses on different Powerhouses, or core muscle groups, within your body, your: abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks.

Pros:

• Helps strengthen your heart and develop aerobic endurance.



• The workouts can be done in either 20 or 50 minute sessions to work with your schedule.



• No need to buy expensive equipment or supplies.



• You’ll see results rather quickly.



• Tapes are reasonably priced, but workout classes are encouraged also.

Cons:

• Tapes can be difficult for beginners.



• You might need to buy the book in order to fully understand the breathing techniques and form.



• Accelerated Body Sculpting can be extremely complex for some people.