AeroPilates, exercise equipment based on core strength training developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, provides a structured method to stretch and tone your muscles with correct body alignment. Pilates began as a no-impact exercise regimen, but has expanded over the years to include some forms of aerobic exercise. Workouts on AeroPilates machines can help you burn calories and create a leaner, more sculpted appearance.
AeroPilates Principles
AeroPilates incorporates the Pilates principle of core stabilization and strengthening movements, but offers more variety and greater intensity. AeroPilates machines give you additional resistance training and help you maintain proper alignment throughout your routine. When you maintain the correct posture with Pilates training your body's core, or torso muscles, remain constantly engaged. Incorrect posture can reduce the effectiveness of Pilates workouts. If you pursue standard Pilates, you may need help from a trainer to develop correct posture.The AeroPilates reduces the need for expert assistance in the same way that weight machines can be used with less instruction than free weights.
Machine Features
The AeroPilates 4695 includes resistance cords that allow you to adjust the intensity of your workout. You can adjust the cords to achieve four levels of resistance. The AeroPilates Performer 4600 includes a Cardio Rebounder for an increased low-impact aerobic workout. Increasing the aerobic workout also increases the calories burned during your workout. AeroPilates machines also include instructional DVDs that demonstrate a variety of exercises, as well as explain how to avoid injury when using the equipment.
Pilates and Cardio
The combined cardio and core strength training provided by AeroPilates machines helps build lean muscle and shed body fat, according to a study conducted by Neil Wolkodoff, medical director of the Center of Health and Sport Science at the Rose Medical Center in Denver. Wolkodoff, who trains both amateur and professional athletes, asked participants to perform specified exercises on the AeroPilates Pro XP 555, which includes a Cardio Rebounder. Thirteen people performed a combination of Pilates exercises and cardio exercises for periods of 40 minutes, three times a week over eight weeks. The 40-minute workouts consisted of 5 minutes of Pilates followed by 5 minutes of cardio rebounding with that pattern repeating itself throughout the entire workout. During the cardio rebounding portions, the subjects were asked to jump approximately 40 to 60 times per minute, depending upon their capabilities. At the end of the trial, all participants showed evidence of increased endurance, increased lean muscle and decreased body fat.
Considerations
Wolkodoff's study, although not a clinical trial, demonstrates that general principles of exercise apply to AeroPilates -- consistent activity produces results. If you use the AeroPilates -- or follow any regimen that includes cardio and resistance training -- on a regular basis, you will reduce body fat and lose weight. The participants in Wolkodoff's study also lowered their calorie intake during the study. It is difficult to lose substantial weight if you rely exclusively on exercise, so your pound-shedding efforts will benefit from a moderately restricted diet.
Member Comments