The Daily Teaser - A Blog about Pilates by Personal Best Pilates Studio

How to Prepare for a Workout at a Pilates Fitness Studio

October 27th, 2012

Pilates is a workout experience unlike any other. It puts your mind to ease and creates longer and leaner muscles. It is known as one of the most relaxing yet tightening exercises that will wash away your stress for the day. You will need to the right atmosphere to d your Pilates in, which is what specialized a pilates fitness studio will provide for you. You will need to prepare yourself for this energizing workout before attending a class, here are some tips in order to do that.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Don’t wear anything too tight and constricting to your Pilate class. Tight clothes will only cause you to lose your ability to concentrate. For pants, wear something loose like pajama style pants. Your top can either be a fitted tee shirt or a tank as long as it isn’t too constricting. A track suit with sweats is also an option as long as it isn’t too snug around the stomach, since most of the Pilates training uses this area as the core of the workout experience.

Consider a Mat Work Class

The very fundamentals of a Pilates work out are included in mat work. At our Pilates fitness studio, we provide a variety of flexible schedule mat work classes to cater to your needs. Mat exercises are perfectly acceptable for newcomers and will give you the flexibility and strength that you are hoping to achieve.

Bring the Necessary Items

Prepare yourself for class by taking deep and shallow breaths. Focus on each large breath you take as it enters your lungs, and excel gradually. This will loosen you up and prepare you for stretching out your muscles. Most people enjoy bringing their own mat to class, so try to find the perfect thick mat that will be the most comfortable to you. Also bring your own water bottle so you are hydrated before you start your training.

Remember to follow these tips before you consider to take a Pilates class. If you have any questions about applying to a Pilates fitness studio, contact us, and we’ll give you a full schedule plan perfect for your needs.

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Benefits of Pilates for Runners

October 20th, 2012

Every runner knows that incorporating a variety of other exercises into their routine can increase their performance without the risk of injury that running typically carries. Running can give your body quite a pounding, especially your knees, hips and joints. Think about Pilates.

The benefits of pilates for a runner include increased endurance, better running form and faster running time.

Pilates focuses on working the core of the body. According to The Balanced Life, “Improper running form is a fast-track to injury. Without proper core strength, and muscle development running can cause a significant amount of stress on your joints. Increasing your core strength relieves pressure from your joints, improves your balance and reduces your overall risk of injury.” While running and other forms of exercise do contribute to strengthening your overall core, Pilates is a great cross-training tactic to make up the imbalance. Runners who don’t focus on the strength of their core muscles may have an increased rate of injury and a poor running form since other muscles will have to compensate for the lack of core performance.

Pilates is such an attractive cross-training technique to use with running because it can be performed immediately before or after a running session. This makes it convenient when compared to other activities such as bicycling or swimming, which can’t always be so easily integrated into your running routine. Pilates also has the advantage of delivering observable results even with minimal workout time.

Anyone who has done pilates knows that is works your core muscles quickly and effectively. Take the time to contact us at Personal Best Pilates Studio to enhance your Pilates technique.

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Pilates for Golf – Just What the (Golf) Doctor Ordered

October 11th, 2012

Golfing is strenuous to the body. The repeated movements required during the game cause pain, overuse and in turn, weakness. Back problems and pains are common in golfers. If your muscles are weak and your body is unbalanced your golf game will suffer. Pilates is fast becoming popular among golfers as a way to improve their game.

Pilates exercises promote balance and strength. It was originally developed as a form of rehabilitation because it focuses on specific muscle recruitment. Pilates can be used to strengthen and condition the specific sets of muscles used in golf.

Pilates can improve a golfer’s game by strengthening the core muscles, correcting the body’s alignment and promoting balance. Drives become more accurate and longer as the core muscles become toned and the body’s posture is improved.

Performing Pilates exercises will also minimize the chance at golf related injuries. Muscles are tender and sore when they are unused and weak. Golfers who perform regular Pilates have toned their core muscles making them flexible, limber and resistant to strain.

Many Pilates studios have developed specific classes for golfers. These classes go through Pilates basics but also focus on those core muscles so important to the game player. Men, women and adolescents are all becoming aware of the benefits of Pilates for golf players.

Pilates for golf can be done on a mat or with Pilates equipment depending on your level of fitness, skill and previous Pilates experience.

Besides toning the body Pilates is known for sharpening the mind, another useful tool in golf. Performing the exercises takes concentration and a focus on the specific muscles and their movements which can also be applied when playing golf.

This is definitely a win/win situation.

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What is Classical Pilates?

October 4th, 2012

While Pilates has changed somewhat through the years to accommodate varying health goals, classical Pilates is still the basis of the exercises. Classical Pilates is the actual exercises developed by Joseph Pilates in the order he arranged them with the intentions that he had in mind.

Classical Pilates is still taught all over the world and although there are a few variations in teaching styles it is still considered classical Pilates. Modified versions of the exercises may be taught in an attempt to ready the client for the actual Pilates exercise. In some cases clients are unable to do the true exercise immediately and must work up to it.

Classical Pilates is done in a specific order. This order was developed by Mr. Pilates to obtain the maximum benefit of the exercises. However, exercises in this order may be skipped and still be considered classical Pilates.

These specific exercises are sometimes omitted to suit the client. Beginning, intermediate and expert practitioners are not always able to perform the exercises the same. The order of the exercises is intended to warm up, exercise and cool down the muscles in one routine. Skipping an exercise while still following the order still allows the natural processes to take place.

Classical Pilates is simply sticking to the original lineup of exercises in the order that Mr. Pilates developed them for the intention in which it was devised. The benefits of classical Pilates are still as relevant today as when they were created.

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Benefits of Pilates Classes

October 3rd, 2012

More and more people are taking Pilates classes these days. Whether they are men or women, these classes have many different benefits associated with them.

One of the main reasons why people look to partake in these classes is because they can benefit people’s health. These classes are great for those looking to increase their flexibility and also their physical conditioning. This can then increase their health because they can shed excess weight and fat off in order to live a healthier lifestyle.

Another reason why Pilates is beneficial is because it is very therapeutic. These classes work on stretching and body motion, which can allow a person to relieve stress. Breathing techniques also are employed in these classes, which also gives people a way to cut down on anxiety.

It is a very therapeutic process and allows people to shut out anything else that might be going on in their lives. These classes will motivate them to come back stronger and better each time that they visit. They will have some self-worth because they will be feeling like they have a goal to achieve.

Pilates classes are also great for those who want to meet new people and socialize. Many different types of people attend these classes, and they are always friendly. These classes give people a way to become better connected with others because they are trying to achieve the same goals. People can build rapports with the instructors and other people in the class, which is great for those who like engaging others in a friendly environment.

Pilates classes are also great for strengthening core muscles and enhancing one’s stretching abilities. This will make them more flexible, which is what every athlete wants. People can increase their muscle tone with Pilates classes, and they can feel better about the way they look. People will get a better definition in their muscles. For more information about these classes contact us.

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Five Tips for Continuing Pilates During Your Pregnancy

September 27th, 2012

One of the biggest mistakes newly pregnant women do is assume that because they are pregnant, they can no longer exercise. No only is this notion wrong, it’s the opposite of what actually happens!

Exercise can help your pregnancy go smoothly and more comfortably. You may worry if you can continue pilates during your pregnancy and the answer is a clear and loud YES! Here are 5 tips to help you continue with pilates from beginning of your pregnancy to the very end:

Avoid poses which force you to lay on your back, especially for a long period of time. Laying on your back shifts the weight of the baby onto your spine and can decrease the blood flow to your brain, and to your uterus. So self modify those exercises or ask your KC Pilates instructor for simple ways to modify. This tip is mainly for those in their second and third trimesters. In the first trimester, the baby and weight is small enough that modifying poses isn’t as important.
Be aware of your balance. Part of the beauty of Pilates is how the body balances itself, the grace of the body as it naturally forms a pose. But when you’re pregnant, the weight you’re used to balancing is redistributed and you gain more weight in the front. This changes how to carry your weight, putting more pressure on your lower back. You might not realize the differences when you are doing daily tasks, but when you begin Pilates, you’ll notice a drastic difference in how your body responds to your usual routine. So be aware that your body won’t balance the same, and be cautious as you transition from pose to pose. Again, you can modify to provide additional stability.
Drink enough water. Your pregnant body is needing more water- and when you exercise, that water isn’t getting through your body the way it should, instead, you’re sweating it out. So take breaks and stay hydrated throughout your instruction.
Don’t overstretch. Your muscles begin to relax and stretch naturally as your body prepares itself for labor- if you overstretch it won’t snap back as easily as previously- causing you more pain and stress than you need. So don’t try to push your muscles to the limit- instead, keep to gentle stretches.
Perhaps what should be listed as the number one thing to keep in mind- check in with your doctor. If you’ve never been active before pregnancy- starting during pregnancy with Pilates- where movements are precise and muscles are tested, might not be a healthy idea. So check in with your doctor to confirm that

By following these few tips, you can ensure you’ll have a safe and happy pregnancy. For more information on being happy and healthy during your pregnancy by using pilates, please contact us today!

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Pilates Personal Training Brings Symmetry to Your Life

September 20th, 2012

Life’s hectic schedule adds much stress to your life, stress that can have negative impacts on your health. Fortunately, there are a variety of fitness regimens today that help you combat your stress levels. A Pilates personal training routine will set both your mind and body at ease.

So exactly how does Pilates combat stress? When Joseph Pilates developed his excercise regimen in 1920, he focused on six principles that hit upon some of the most proven methods for managing stress: relaxation, breath, concentration, guided imagery, heightened body awareness and mindfulness.

Joseph Pilates once said, “one must move without tenseness.” That is easier said than done, however. You probably even carry tension in your body without being aware of its effects. Pilates works to break this pattern as it only targets the muscles needed for a particular movement while the rest remains in a relaxed state.
Relaxed breathing is key to fighting stress. The diaphragmatic breathing used in Pilates teaches its users to better their awareness of each moment. If stress appears on the horizon, Pilates trains you to react in a positive, healthy manner through purposeful breathing, not panic.
Concentration is focal when contracting or relaxing a variety of muscle groups, especially when done in patterns. This concentration also be used to relax the tensions that reside in your muscles due to stress.
Guided imagery takes you to that special place in your mind where you are free from stress and worry. While you will need an instructor’s guidance to achieve this state of mind at first, its technique will prove so invaluable that it will become second nature.
Pilates gives you an awareness of your own body. The exercise requires you to become aware of each movement’s symmetry and coordination, or the lack thereof in some cases. Many of our daily aches and pains are caused simply because we are not caring for our core as we should. Hence, you suffer from a crick in your neck or an ache in your spine after sitting at a computer all day. The body awareness you develop through instruction will help you carry over your skills to the daily activities in your life.
Every aspect above will train you to be mindful of the moment at hand. Pilates forces you to exist in that very second, appreciating all that your body must perform. Stress just does not evade such an intimate awareness.

Pilates possesses real life implications for all. With the proper instructor you will soon find your own synergy, improving how you feel in all aspects of your life. Please contact us today to find your inner balance to a stress feel existence.

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Stand up for the benefits of pilates

August 29th, 2012

It’s time to stand up and proclaim the benefits of Pilates.

(No, really. Go ahead and stand up — it’s good for you.)

Yes, merely getting out of your chair and standing up is one of the most effective things you can do to reclaim your fitness — and maybe even extend your life.

In fact, a new study finds that if Americans would cut the amount of time they sit to less than three hours per day, they’d add an average of two years to their lives.

The study, led by Peter Katzmarzyk of Pennington Biological Research Center in Baton Rouge, La., has just been released in the journal BMJ Open.

“It’s about the inactivity in your muscles,” Katzmarzyk tells Bloomberg. “When you’re sitting your legs are completely inactive.”

OK, now that you’re up, you might as well do some Pilates, right?

And just as a reminder, let’s review some of those benefits:

• Body awareness — Done correctly, Pilates helps you sync your mind and your body, making your mind more aware of how your body is performing and feeling. That can help prevent or heal injuries that come from everything from poor posture or mechanical motion to lack of activity.

• A stronger core — That poor posture we just mentioned? It gets better when your core muscles — front, back and sides — are stronger. Pilates helps all that, too.

• Body control — Better posture and stronger core muscles work together for more efficient and healthier motion. And that’s the whole goal: Keeping you healthy and active.

Wait, wait. Don’t sit down yet. Contact us, and we’ll have you back on your feet in no time.

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The Ultimate Pilates Method for Stronger Abs

August 22nd, 2012

Pilates Mat Class If you want a healthy and lean looking body, Pilates fitness is the way to go. Don’t expect bulky muscles when training with Pilates exercise, expect the complete opposite. The Pilates method for leaner and tighter abs is a long but rewarding process. It will improve your posture, flexibility, and most importantly, give you a flat eye pleasing tummy. Try these Pilate exercises to strengthen your abdominals and improve your appearance.

The swan dive is a simple method for beginners that strengthens the upper abdominal muscles. Lay down completely flat on your stomach and put your hands on your shoulders. Slowly raise your body upwards, repeating this step 10 times. This will not only tighten your abs, but it will also improve your posture as it straightens the spine.

To define your lower abdominals, try the corkscrew technique. Begin by laying flat on your back with your arms straight at your sides. Extend your legs upwards towards the ceiling and keep them there for at least 20 seconds. Gently lower your legs back down and repeat the same step at least 5 times. This can be a bit challenging, especially for a new learner. It might cause sore thighs and abs after the first time but this is a great build up for a flatter stomach.

Knee sways are another excellent Pilates method. This will toughen your obliques and improve your flexibility. First, lay on your back with your calves flat to the floor. Lift and bend your legs very slowly while rotating your hips. Once your left and right knee almost touches the floor, bring them back up again and reiterate the same step. Do this at least 5 to 10 times for a steady focus.

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Wunda Chair – A Simple Pilates Machine That Gives You a Great Workout

August 15th, 2012

The Wunda Chair is one of the several exercise apparatus used in a Pilates workout. It is multipurpose equipment on which you can carry out more than 75 exercise routines. While Wunda chair models have some variations, the set-up basically includes hand holds, a platform, pedal bar, springs, and a padded seat. The chair offers stable support when executing the moves with precision and control. The foot pedal can be moved up and down with the springs providing variable resistance.

A variety of beginner to advanced exercises can be performed on the chair. You can exercise in different positions, such as while sitting on top, lying down, or standing on the chair. The chair can be used for lunges, push-ups or pull-ups, with the feet or hands lowering and raising the foot bar.

A workout on the Wunda chair engages the lower back, the abdominals, and the pelvic region. It stretches and strengthens the spine. Besides conditioning your core muscles, chair exercises are good for building strength in the upper body and toning leg muscles. This Pilates machine helps develop better balance and shoulder stability, and improves coordination as well.

The chair is utilized in retraining muscles that have come under strain, or have been injured. It is incorporated in conditioning programs devised to boost performance of runners, racquet sports players, and skiers.

If you would like to train on the Wunda chair, it is best to exercise under the guidance of an instructor. You can work out with a certified instructor at our well-equipped Pilates studio. We can train you on the Wunda chair and a range of Pilates apparatus. Contact us to enhance your fitness with Pilates equipment sessions at our studio.

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How to Prepare for a Workout at a Pilates Fitness Studio

Benefits of Pilates for Runners

Pilates for Golf – Just What the (Golf) Doctor Ordered

What is Classical Pilates?

Benefits of Pilates Classes

Five Tips for Continuing Pilates During Your Pregnancy

Pilates Personal Training Brings Symmetry to Your Life

Stand up for the benefits of pilates

The Ultimate Pilates Method for Stronger Abs

Wunda Chair – A Simple Pilates Machine That Gives You a Great Workout

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