Pilates Primer

He Says Pilates, She Says ... The Method?

Would an exercise technique by any other name still be as effective? Because of trademark restrictions (which have several organizations embroiled in lawsuits with the owners of the term), some studios refer to their Pilates-like technique as "the method," or even the phrase the "p word." Are you wondering what all the fuss over Pilates is about? The word has been tossed around quite a bit lately. Pilates (pronounced Pi-lah-teez), used primarily by dancers for deep body conditioning and injury rehabilitation, is a 70-year-old exercise technique first developed by German immigrant, Joseph Pilates. Only recently has it migrated from its long-held position at the fringes of traditional fitness methods such as aerobics and weight training. Hollywood has been a key factor in turning the spotlight on Pilates, as numerous models and actresses pay homage to Pilates for their beautifully toned, fit bodies.

Focusing on the Core

The abdominal and back muscles are often collectively referred to as the body's core. Pilates exercises are designed to strengthen this core by developing pelvic stability and abdominal control. In addition, the exercises improve flexibility and joint mobility, and build strength.

How can one exercise technique claim to do so much? The Reformer, a wooden contraption with various cables, pulleys, springs and sliding boards attached, lies at the foundation of Pilates. Primarily using one's own body weight as resistance, participants are put through a series of progressive, range-of-motion exercises. Despite the appearance of this, and several other equally unusual-looking devices, Pilates exercises are very low impact.

Instructors, who typically work one-on-one or with two to three participants, offer reminders to engage the abdominals, the back, the upper leg and buttocks to stabilize the body's core.

Exercise sessions are designed according to individual flexibility and strength limitations. Pilates exercises are not limited to specialized machines, however. In fact, many gyms across the country now offer Pilates floor-work classes. These exercises also stress the stabilization and strengthening of the back and abdominal muscles.

Connecting with Pilates

The mind/body connection associated with yoga and meditation also plays an integral part in Pilates. Unlike exercise techniques that emphasize numerous repetitions in a single direction, Pilates exercises are performed with very few, but extremely precise, repetitions in several planes of motion.

So, what will all this focus and stabilization get you? Well, according to its adherents, Pilates can help you develop long, strong muscles, a flat stomach and a strong back, and improve posture. Of course, these changes are dependent upon other lifestyle factors, such as a well-balanced diet and regular, aerobic exercise. (Though some may claim that Pilates is all you need to develop stamina and endurance as well, an additional cardiovascular component may be advisable.)

An initial Pilates session typically includes a body assessment, which allows the instructor to pinpoint strength and flexibility weak spots. This is the time to become familiar with Pilates' unique breathing patterns, which don't always follow the exhale-on-the-exertion pattern of traditional exercise.

Sessions typically run 60 minutes, at a cost of $30 to $50 for private sessions, and $8 to $25 for group sessions. If you're more comfortable exercising at home, there are several Pilates and Pilates-type videos available, including the Fit & Flexible series, and The Method Precision series.

Several home versions of the Reformer also are currently available on the market. Whether you work out at a studio or on your living room floor, Pilates is an excellent way to challenge your muscles, improve flexibility and incorporate the mind/ body element into one effective exercise session.

This squabble over terminology shouldn't keep you from finding a reputable, qualified instructor. You can access a comprehensive list of Pilates studios by calling Pilates, Inc., at 800-474-5283, or the PhysicalMind Institute, which refers to its technique as The Method, at 800-505-1990.

This article has been supplied courtesy of the American Council on Exercise, one of FoodFit's Resource Associations.