Issue Date: September 21, 2008
Everyday Pilates
You can get the benefits even through regular movements.
Apply the principles of Pilates to everyday activities to get some of the benefits outside of structured classes in Pilates. Brooke Siler, author of "Your Ultimate Pilates Body Challenge," shares ways of adding Pilates to your daily movements.
BREATHE by expanding and contracting your chest muscles like an accordion, and keep your abdominal muscles tight instead of breathing deeply through your belly. Siler says: "This will expand your lung capacity and endurance."
MOVE by initiating action from your core. Contract your abs first and then stretch your arms or legs away from your center. "This creates opposition, which strengthens your muscles," Siler says. "Plus, you're working more muscles, thereby burning more calories."
WORK OUT with an exercise band or belt around your waist and concentrate on cinching in your waist, as though you're wearing a corset. "Benefits of this are a longer waist, tighter abs and better digestion and circulation," Siler says.
|
