Popular Pilates

American Fitness, March-April, 2003

What do Courtney Cox and Halle Berry have in common? Well, besides being well-paid, beautiful Hollywood stars, they're also Pilates fans. Judging by the number of Pilates studios popping up around the nation, so are a lot of other people. According to the International Dance and Exercise Association, Pilates is the fastest-growing class in health clubs.

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Although Pilates attracts many people because it's reputed to create sleek, dancer-like bodies, its true purpose is to teach proper alignment and train the body to work efficiently. Doctors say Pilates can also ease arthritis pain, improve balance and prevent osteoporosis in seniors. It's also used as a preventive measure to avoid surgery and in post-rehabilitation. Members of the scientific and medical community, such as Thomas B. Cowan, M.D., clinical assistant professor of the Department of Neurology at Millard Fillmore Health System in Buffalo, New York, have begun to study Pilates in relation to musculoskeletal health. Cowan's extensive research shows Pilates not only helps prevent back injuries by developing a strong abdominal wall and back musculature, but also aids back surgery recovery by increasing flexibility and strength.

Typically an hour in length, Pilates sessions are either group exercise classes using mats or private instruction using resistance equipment. Nowadays, you also have the option of following Pilates videos at home, such as Pilates for Dummies[R] (Anchor Bay Entertainment; $9.99 VHS or $14.98 DVD). "You wont do endless repetitions," Michelle Dozois explains in the video. "Instead, you'll do a variety of movements using concentration and control." Dozois' video offers simple exercises, tips, myth-busters and modifications, so anyone can benefit from Pilates. Pilates class prices range from $10 to $20 for group mat sessions and $50 to $100 for an hour of private instruction utilizing Pilates equipment. Michelle Dozois' Pilates for Dummies[R] is available by calling (800) 546-1949 or visiting www.collagevideo.com/fordummies.

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Popular Pilates

American Fitness, March-April, 2003

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