If you've managed to avoid the Pilates craze so far, and are starting to feel left in the dark, don't panic. The Pilates Method is not beyond your grasp, and can be easily summarized for those people looking for "Pilates for Dummies." Pilates is a general methodology of exercise, not a limited set of exercises that only a few elite gym-goers can master. Pilates is a form of movement, very similar to Yoga in its mind-body-breathing connection. Consider this article your own personal Pilates for Dummies.

The Basic Principle

The basic concept behind Pilates is controlling your body through your core, a.k.a. your abdomen. Your entire body is connected through this area, so in practicing Pilates you are focusing on moving your entire body as a conjoined system. Sounds confusing? More simply put, Pilates is the art of balance and control. In doing Pilates you are focusing on balancing your body, which naturally occurs through your middle, or core. See, Pilates is for dummies too!

There are many different methods of Pilates. You'll hear about Winsor Pilates, Stott Pilates, Pilates machines, the list goes on and on. Basically theses are all just different forms of the same idea. Stott Pilates focuses more on freedom of movement, most like Yoga, and less on adding bulk or strength training. Winsor Pilates focuses on having you perform a very specific sequence of exercises that are believed to produce maximum results in your fitness and flexibility.

While these methods may go beyond the scope of Pilates for Dummies, if you're interested in trying Pilates just pick up any beginner Pilates video, or find a beginning class at your gym. These classes will teach you the basic Pilates movements and philosophies that are utilized by all the different forms of Pilates. Mary Winsor and Moira Merrithew did for Pilates what Jane Fonda and a step bench did for aerobics; they just put their own spin on it.

Because Pilates has become so popular during the last few years, you will not be at a loss to find Pilates for Dummies resources. A basic keyword web search will produce a lot of information, and before you know it you'll be throwing around terms like "the one hundred" like you're a pro. Pilates is friendly to people of all experience levels. Don't be afraid to grab a video and try it out!

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