HEALTH & FITNESS staying young The Power Of Pilates A s a Pilates instructor, I am often asked, "What is Pilates?" People want to know if Pilates can ben- efit them. They are curious about how this method works and what the strange-look- ing equipment is for. Pilates is a precise system of sequenced exercises performed on a mat or specially designed equipment. This method was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Pilates is a whole-body workout but emphasizes core strength. The core includes the abdominals, low back, hips and buttocks. Pilates emphasizes the mind-body con- nection and incorporates the concepts of breath, efficiency of movement, control and balance into all of its exercises. The many benefits of Pilates include strength, flexibility, improved posture and increased circulation. Pilates is non-impact and therefore gentle on the joints. Pilates is performed in both mat classes and private-equipment set- tings. Mat classes strengthen the core and balance the muscles through the use of gravity and the individual's body weight. Equipment training allows for a greater range of exercises and more strengthening of the peripheral muscles. Both types of training involve the use of precise movement, attention to breath and body awareness. I fell in love with Pilates after the birth of my second child. My abdominal muscles felt non-existent and my back ached from the strain of carry- ing both my baby and overflowing diaper bag. I started working out in the studio at Franklin Athletic Club in Southfield and then added mat classes to my program. Quickly, I saw my posture improve as my abdominal muscles strengthened and my back pain dissipated. Radiance wishes you a Sweqt FALL SPECIALS However, the biggest benefit I noticed was the body aware- ness that I gained. I recognized that even outside of the studio I was applying Pilates prin- ciples to everyday life. As I unloaded groceries or picked up my kids, I was remember- ing to "engage my core I real- ized that I wanted to pass these benefits on to others and so I enrolled in the Intensive Stott Pilates instructor training pro- gram at Equilibrium Studio in Bloomfield Township. Pilates can be beneficial for everybody, whether practiced on its own or as an adjunct to other exercise programs. Pilates is embraced by dancers, professional ath- letes and rehabilitation patients. Pilates equipment training is generally offered on a private, duet or small-group basis. I generally recommend beginning with ew Yea Botox, Juvederm or Restylane $50 OFF IPL Skin Rejuvenation Package Your choice of.. Free IPL Hands or Free Obagi Skin Care Set Laser Hair Removal Package Buy one area... Get one area ramance m edsp a Love the way you look 373 S Old Woodward Ave Birmingham, MI 48009 248-723-7188 877-SPA-BIRM radiancebirmingham.com Medical Director: Dr. Gina Gora -Dworkin Free Parking B28 September 25 • 2008 Not to be combined with any other specials, coupons, or offers. Limit 1 per customer. at least one private session as an introduc- tion to this method. A studio will usually include several types of apparatus. For example, at Franklin Athletic Club, our studio includes six reformer/cadillacs as well as three stability chairs and a ladder barrel. We have a variety of small equip- ment for use in both our mat and equip- ment settings. When beginning a Pilates program, make sure to find a well-trained profes- sional. Proper instruction and quality equipment are essential to the success of training. If your goals are longer, leaner muscles and improved mind-body aware- ness, then Pilates may be the training pro- gram you have been looking for! ❑ Aly Jaffe of West Bloomfield is a group fit- ness instructor, Pilates instructor and personal trainer at Franklin Athletic Club in Southfield (248-352-8000, ext. 408). Her e-mail address is alyjaffe@comcast.net.