Pilates DVD – The First Step To Getting Physically Fit With Pilates
Many people think that getting motivated is the hardest part of getting into a fitness routine, but that is not always true. Though it is difficult for many people to get motivated to push their physical limits, there is something else that drives many people away. The main dread that all exercisers face is the risk of looking funny or feeling uncoordinated. To get over that initial fear the best way to jump-start your exercise routine is to pop in your Pilates DVD. Pilates is one of today’s most popular fitness routines, and there are plenty of quality videos out there for you to choose from to start with.
Pilates exercises do not require extensive Pilates equipment and are not based on multiple repetitions like other exercise routines. Most regimes only require that you have a dedicated Pilates mat, which should be at least half of an inch thick to provide both comfort and safety. There are several sizes available, and you should choose appropriately to your height. You don’t want a crossover mat because you’ll sacrifice some of the features you’re looking for to effectively work on you new exercises. For example yoga mats are thinner because the goal is to feel the floor.
Your workout will focus on the six main Pilates principles: Centering, Control, Flow, Breath, Precision, and Concentration. It is not the number of repetitions that gain the benefit but the quality and integration of all parts of your body into every movement. Before you pop in your Pilates DVD make sure you are dressed comfortably. You’ll want clothing that has some stretch (no jeans) and something not too bulky. Most of the DVDs on Pilates will have ten minute workouts at a time, which will be more than enough for you to get a real feel for what these types of exercises entail.
You may find that you see improvements in range of motion, flexibility, circulation, posture, and abdominal strength. The creator of these exercises was Joseph Pilates, who created them to help World War I soldiers. He used springs from their beds to help improve range of motion. In 1926 Pilates immigrated to the US and continued to develop his exercise routines/approach. Today we see exercises and routines that have been tried and tested for decades.
If you are looking to take your exercises a step further, Pilates classes should be your next course of action. These classes have more than just the mats for specific routines that you would otherwise not be able to get at home. With jump-start at home you should be able to fit right in! Also, if you’d like to continue at home there are many advanced DVD options.
A good Pilates video is indispensable. It can guide you in your routine without restricting and limiting your progress. Classes are also an option, as they allow you to take your work out a bit further, and you can socialize with other people with the same goals as you. Whatever you do, you’ll gain the benefits of improved core strength, flexibility and energy. All for the price of a Pilates DVD!
Jumping right into classes is a bit of a big jump for some people. If this sounds like you, starting off with a Pilates video may be the best way to ease yourself into Pilates.
