Pilates Workout For Dummies

The "Pilates Workout for Dummies" is an exercise program that is part of the Dummies series of educational books and media. First introduced on VHS in 2001, the program now has a DVD version. Pilates is a low impact form of exercise, suitable for all ages and easily modified to accommodate physical limitations. Consult your doctor before you start any exercise program.

Identification

Joseph Pilates developed the whole body exercise system that bears his name. The movements feature muscle resistance that helps to strengthen the targeted area of your body. Pilates uses your body alone or special equipment, such as elastic bands and inflatable balls.

Types

Since the introduction of Pilates in the U.S., practitioners have created alternate styles with movements and techniques that were not included in Joseph Pilates' methodology. The "Pilates Workout for Dummies" instructor, Michelle Dozois, is a professional fitness trainer. She has Method Pilates certification, which means she teaches the original methods and techniques that Joseph Pilates developed.

Features

The VHS version, created in 2001, runs for 40 minutes. The workout program's beginner segment includes classic Pilates mat exercises that focus on toning your abdomen, back, legs and buttocks. Along with improving your posture, you learn proper breathing and concentration techniques. Dozois leads you through 18 of the 34 classic Pilates mat exercises, offering explanations, demonstrations and alternative moves for those who may find some exercises physically challenging. The workout series begins with the basic Hundreds exercise and progresses through 17 additional mat exercises, including Leg Circles, Swan Dive, Corkscrew, Roll-Ups and others that increase in difficulty and resistance.

The 60-minute DVD has beginner exercises and additional intermediate exercises. The content increases your flexibility by building on the introductory mat exercises. The DVD's intermediate segment adds more challenging mat exercises and reduces the instruction time for each movement.

Benefits

The "Pilates Workout for Dummies" exercises strengthen and stretch your muscles. Pilates mat exercises help you develop a stronger core and longer, leaner muscles throughout your body. The Pilates Method Alliance states that these exercises improve your balance and increase your flexibility. Continued practice improves lung function and blood circulation. Increased bone density and joint health are additional benefits of Pilates mat exercises.

Considerations

This introduction to Pilates gives you a foundation in key exercises that strengthen and tone the body. It is not a replacement for supervised instruction from a certified Pilates trainer. If you feel that any of the exercises are too strenuous or you experience discomfort, do not over extend your muscles to the point of injury.