Mari Winsor's first Pilates studios opened in California in 1990. It quickly gained popularity when her method of exercise became popular with Hollywood stars. Pilates has since become popular for many women and men who are looking for a longer, leaner body. Winsor has brought her exercises to those around the world through equipment and DVDs, which include her "20-Minute Workout" DVD. While Pilates is considered low impact, you should not begin using any exercise routine without consulting with your doctor.
History
Pilates is named after Joseph Pilates, the German who began inventing the discipline in the early 1900s. Joseph Pilates believed that the series of exercises he designed would promote balance, strength and physical and mental harmony within the body. The routine, which focuses heavily on breathing and centers on the abdomen, was used in rehabilitation centers before dancers discovered the benefits it had on their craft. Mari Winsor is a student of Romana Kryzanowska, the woman who took over Joseph Pilates' studio after his death.
Equipment and Difficulty
Winsor begins the "20-Minute Workout" by explaining the basic concepts of Pilates, including body alignment and breathing. Five exercisers are in the background, performing all the moves. One person shows modifications for those who find the standard move too difficult. Though an exercise mat is a good idea if you are on a hard floor, no equipment is needed to do this workout with the exception of a DVD player or computer to play the program.
Exercises
The Winsor Pilates "20-Minute Workout" consists of different segments: The Hundred; The Roll-up; Single Leg Circle; Rolling Like a Ball; Single Leg Stretch; Double Leg Stretch; Single Straight Leg; Double Straight Leg; Criss-Cross; Spine Stretch; and The Saw. They are followed by the Leg Kick series -- Side Kicks, Bicycle, Leg Lifts and Big Scissors. The final exercise is Seal. Each movement is explained step-by-step by Mari Winsor, while the music keeps the routine flowing.
Cost and Availability
As of 2011, you could purchase the "Winsor Pilates 20-Minute Workout" through the company's website or other sites throughout the Internet, including Amazon.com. It is also sold through infomercials on television and costs under $13. Windsor continues to produce additional 20-minute workouts, including "Superfast Body Blast," "ABsession," "Quick Start Pilates for Weight Loss Workout," "On the Go Pilates" and "BootCamp Express." She's made more than 30 videos which have sold more than 50 million copies. Winsor continues to study with Romana Kryzanowska and to add new moves to her routines.
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