Pilates (the key to a strong supple body)

This form of exercise has been growing in popularity and is now being recommended by osteopaths, physiotherapists, and general practitioners as one of the safest forms of exercise today.Gem Pilatesdemonstrates the various exercises with illustrated step-by-step instructions for easy use at home. A clear introduction to what pilates is, this guide covers how it has developed since it was invented by Jospeh Pilates in the 1920s, how it works on keeping the body strong and healthy and imporving posture and alignment, what to expect in a pilates class, the equipment used in the gym, and step by step instructions to mroe than 20 movements that you can practice at home on a mat with minimal equipment. The basic principles of pilates are covered—centering, alignment, breathing, control, precision, flowing movement, and relaxation.