Types of Pilates

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Pilates

Pilates is a system of focused movements and breathing techniques aimed at improving flexibility, posture, and strength without adding muscle mass. Pilates exercises draw on the "powerhouse" region of the body, comprised of the abs and buttocks, for the execution of poses. Whether you’re a staunch Pilates devotee, or are interested in finding some Pilates classes in your neighborhood, the following guide has the information you’ll need to enhance your practice (and your butt!).

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Pilates

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Doing Pilates

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Types of Pilates

Various teachers have modified Joseph Pilates' original technique, and there are numerous ways you can practice. Several Pilates teachers have taken their knowledge of Pilates to develop and teach modified versions of the original practice, such as Fletcher Pilates, Stott Pilates, Power Pilates, and Winsor Pilates.

Dulcinea's Insight

If you're interested in reading about the court ruling that determined Pilates to be a generic form of exercise and not a trademarked name, you'll find the article on Balanced Body's Web site.

It's hard to say objectively whether one type of Pilates is really better than another. Remember that each of these styles is represented by a commercial business that wants to sell its product. Before you choose a style or program, carefully outline your goals so you can easily determine which classes can best meet those goals.

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For major branches of Pilates ...

Fletcher Pilates , taught by The Ron Fletcher Company, is a technique developed through study with Joseph and Clara Pilates, Martha Graham, and other industry innovators. Learn about the technique on this sleek site, which explains the elements of the practice in detail, with pictures.

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Stott Pilates incorporates contemporary exercise techniques and attentiveness to spinal cord injuries. The technique was invented by a former dancer and has its own teacher training program and certification. The FAQ provides the most comprehensive introduction to the method. You can also learn about equipment, classes, and teacher training on the site.

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Power Pilates certifies instructors to teach a classical method closely tied to the original work of Joseph Pilates. There is an emphasis on safe practicing, and a commitment to helping bodies both grow stronger and heal.

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Winsor Pilates , founded by Mari Winsor, is one of the more well-known styles of Pilates, as Mari Winsor launched a large-scale infomercial business based on her success with celebrity clients. This is the "as seen on TV" site, so it's loud, flashy, and certainly trying to sell stuff, but many people swear by the products offered.

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Who Knew?

The Gyrotonic is a machine that offers complete range of motion and improves core strength, expands the spine, and puts the body in equilibrium. Although not technically Pilates, Pilates principles are applied on a Gyrotonic machine, and it may be used as a supplement to Pilates study.

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