How to Compare the Different Pilates Methods
The original pilates was invented in the early part of the twentieth century by a man named Joseph Pilates. Although pilates has been taught for many decades, its popularity exploded only recently. Some of the early followers of pilates have since moved on and combined their knowledge of pilates with other forms of exercise to get entirely new variations on this classic exercise technique.
Instructions
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Compare Pilates Equipment
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Begin your pilates workout with basic mat exercises. Thick mats are essential for supporting and protecting your back while you do rolling exercises, which provide overall toning and strengthen the abdominal muscles.
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Choose a pilates reformer when you want to strengthen and lengthen your muscles while focusing on stabilizing your torso. The reformer is an excellent choice when you want to focus primarily on your limbs.
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Use the pilates cadillac, which is halfway between physical therapy and exercise, to strengthen your back and core abdominal muscles.
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Incorporate the wunda chair into your pilates exercise routine when you want to increase your core strength and enhance your pelvic stability.
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Consider a ladder barrel when you want to target your deep postural muscles. This simple contaption is one of the easiest pieces of pilates equipment to use, and is also simple to store.
Compare the Different Pilates Methods
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Become familiar with the original pilates method. Books such as "A Pilates Primer: The Millennium Edition" by Joseph Pilates and Judd Robbins are a great way to become familiar with the basic concepts of pilates, as well as the history behind its creation (see Resources below).
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Learn about Winsor pilates, which is arguably one of the most famous methods of pilates in the United States. This type of exercise combines traditional pilates concepts with body-sculpting movements, and has become incredibly popular in hot spots like New York and Hollywood.
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Study the STOTT techniques. One of the different methods of pilates, STOTT pilates uses traditional techniques and modern science to attempt to bring more healing power into exercise. Created by Moira Merrithew, this type of pilates arose from an intense study of human anatomy and exercise science.
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Find a personal trainer who will help you compare the different pilates methods to find the one which works best for you. Your personal trainer may be able to advise one method over the others from the start, but ultimately, you need to go with the one that gets you the best results and gives you the best overall feeling.
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Keep an exercise log where you can write down your feelings and physical experiences after trying each method. Having a log will make it easier for you to compare the different styles quickly.
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Stick with the method that gives you the most benefits. This may not be the one which provides the most visible benefits. Instead, you might choose to go with the method that helps you build muscle tone, addresses your specific problems, gives you more energy and makes you feel good about yourself.
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Tips & Warnings
As you compare the different pilates methods, remember the importance of working with a physical trainer or a certified professional. Starting a pilates routine without the guidance of someone trained in the various pilates methods could result in serious injury to your mucles, back or limbs.