Pilates is a gentle but highly effective method of toning and strengthening the body, originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. Mari Winsor is a Pilates instructor who has become well known through her books, videos and Hollywood and Los Angeles studios for her variations on the traditional Pilates approach. Winsor Pilates in particular uses a technique called "dynamic sequencing," fast-paced Pilates moves intended to sculpt and tone the body while they burn calories.
Quick Results
The Winsor Pilates method in particular promises quick results through "seamless transitioning." The exercises move quickly, and are intended to challenge both muscles and cardiovascular system to increase the metabolism at the same time it tones the body. Winsor's method includes a piece of equipment called the Accelerator to provide resistance, which she claims is a "total home gym" providing 25 different uses and 200 exercises.
Strengthening
Like conventional Pilates, Winsor Pilates exercises promote strength throughout your entire body, particularly strength of your "core" or "powerhouse"--the deep abdominal muscles and the muscles close to the spine. Many women in particular appreciate Pilates for the way it builds long, lean muscles without bulkiness. The fact that Pilates improves muscle strength and helps protect against bone loss makes it an excellent exercise for older people who are at risk for osteoporosis, according to the website AltMD.
Flexibility
As people age, they tend to become less flexible and more stiff in their movements. Unlike traditional bodybuilding, which tends to create short, bulky muscles, Pilates exercise promotes strong, elongated muscles and flexible joints, increasing your mobility. Pilates doesn't just build strong abdominal muscles, but creates flexibility of the trunk. In addition, Pilates also targets leg flexibility with exercises that simultaneously strengthen and stretch the muscles of the upper and lower leg and hip joint.
Functional Fitness
One of the primary benefits of Winsor Pilates is gaining a strong core, which promotes good posture and is an excellent antidote for those who must sit in front of a computer screen all day, according to the Yoga Health Benefits website. Many people find that the core strength they gain from Pilates provides relief from back pain and makes them less prone to back injury. Pilates increases your range of motion, which improves your ability to perform simple everyday functions, such as reaching a high cabinet, tying your shoes or turning your body as you back your car. An advantage of Pilates over some other types of exercises is that every part of your body is toned, including your ankles and feet.
Other Benefits
Unlike some other forms of fitness, Winsor Pilates can be utilized by people of all ages and at all stages of fitness. The exercise movements require no jarring or bouncing, meaning there is no stress on the joints. Pilates movements can be adapted for those who are pregnant or suffering from injuries. Like yoga, Winsor Pilates focuses the mind on movement and breathing and acts as a stress reliever.
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