When you think ‘pilates’, you probably think of Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, and a million identikit yummy mummies in designer leggings. But this is no vanity workout. After all, you don’t get to be Iron Man’s right hand woman without being able to pack a punch.
Pilates can be one of the toughest – and most effective – workouts out there… if you do it properly.
It was invented by Joseph Pilates while he was being held in an internment camp during World War I. Drawing from his past experience as a bodybuilder and boxer, as well as the traditional methods of yoga, he developed a system of intense core exercises which could be carried out with minimal equipment.
Today, all you need to practice pilates is a mat. Like yoga, there is an emphasis on good posture and stretching, but while yoga is all about balance, pilates is all about the core.
This is the exercise to do if you want rock hard abs, as well as all-over flexibility. However, it’s extremely important to get the technique right from the outset to avoid doing damage to your spine.
Brave the yummy mummies and start off with a few professional classes. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can practice pilates anytime, anywhere, and with anyone you like.
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