Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s, Pilates is a form of exercises that includes various low-impact flexibility, strength and endurance movements for a total body workout (see References 4). By 1990, Mari Winsor opened a Pilates studio in Los Angeles and started using the Pilates workouts to train musicians, professional athletes and celebrities (see References 3). With the popularity of Winsor Pilates, Winsor released fitness videos for targeted training to improve strength, flexibility, posture and balance.
Function
While Pilates exercises provide a total body workout, the targeted training workout videos from Winsor Pilates focuses on a single muscle group, such as the abs or thighs. These workouts are designed to target these body areas based on your fitness goals and needs and can be combined for a total body workout. According to Mari Winsor, the intensity level of the targeted training workouts and dynamic sequencing -- a specific pace and selection of exercises -- maximizes calorie and fat burn in the specific areas.
Types
The targeted training workouts are split into several workout videos based on the muscle group. Workout videos include lower body, core, buns and thighs. Lower body and thigh workouts focus on firming the hamstrings, quadriceps, upper hips and inner thighs by using a series of exercises such as side kicks. To improve core strength, targeted training incorporates traditional Pilates exercise,s such as the 100 and double-leg stretch. "Shape" magazine suggests that the targeted training in Winsor Pilates allows you to focus on your individual problem areas.
Features
Through the targeted training workouts, you learn how to perform each exercise. Along with the six videos, the targeted training workouts require basic Pilates equipment, including an exercise mat, sculpting circle and resistance bands. With the video series, you get a fat burning cookbook that includes recipes and a meal planner for tracking calories to promote weight loss. An exercise planner is also included to track workout results.
Time Frame
Mari Winsor suggests that the Winsor Pilates targeted training can produce fitness results in as little as 20 minutes a day in only three days per week. The limited time commitment is possible with the dynamic sequencing that maximizes the time spent during the targeted training workout. However, according to the Mayo Clinic website, although Pilates is a good strength training workout, it should be complemented with aerobic exercise such as walking, running, biking or swimming.
Considerations
According to the Mayo Clinic website, anyone over 40 years old should consult a doctor before starting any exercise program to identify any potential health problems. Pilates has several health and fitness benefits and can be scaled to meet any fitness level, but should be performed under supervision from an experienced Pilates instructor. Consider taking a basic introductory Pilates class from a local fitness club or Pilates studio to learn the basic fundamentals from an instructor before starting targeted training with Winsor Pilates.
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