Pilates

Starting to Exercise can often be a little like playing the guitar. Its pretty hard to get started, fairly easy to get competent but takes a lifetime to get really good at it. Pilates is no exception. Theres no need to get nervous about not being able to get into pretzel shapes when you start out. Of all the exercise programs available to you today Pilates is actually well suited to the beginner. There are numerous DVDs and tapes that are geared to those just starting out, and for good reason: as an instructed discipline Pilates pretty much guarantees that everyone has to be a beginner at some stage. So dont feel intimidated. Pilates is pretty simple to get started. Well run you through a few ideas to make your Pilates adventure as smooth as possible.

When it comes to gym time people often get excited about the outfits. Dont take this too lightly. On the one hand there is no use getting some new kit thats so fancy you never want to sweat in it, but its also counterproductive to get into shabby kit that makes you feel embarrassed to be seen out. Starting your Pilates workouts could be the beginning of a great new fitness routine for you, so dress accordingly.

When it comes to learning the moves youll be swamped with options. Books and DVDs abound. Aero, Supreme, Stott, Winsor (properly spelling - not Windsor) and Zone are all well-known names in the market. Your budget will probably dictate which package to go for, but each has its fans and detractors. Check out the Internet sites for each to get a feel for the programs. Most are excellent, although the truth is that sometimes something as simple as their voice annoying you can get in the way of a decent workout, so maybe check the online reviews or ask to watch a little of one in your local store. Anecdotally the Stott programs are the most thorough and give good instruction on the basics, although some find her voice a little monotone.

Some come packaged with a ball, which can be good value for money, plus an instructional pamphlet can be good too for additional instruction ideas. Also for when you travel and maybe dont have a DVD player in your room, you can use the pamphlet as a reminder for your routine. A decent mat in a color that you like is an essential item also. But thats really all the equipment youll need to get started.

As weve made clear elsewhere in our articles, were a big fan here of instructor led classes, and for two primary reasons. Firstly, its a good thing to have someone to check that youre doing the exercises properly. It would be such a waste to spend months doing an exercise wrong and not see the great results that Pilates is capable of giving. Secondly, attending a class can also help with your motivation and accountability. Although that does depend on the quality of the class. See our article on choosing the right class for you for additional suggestions.

So if youre a Pilates beginner, jump on in. Its relatively inexpensive to grab a mat, ball and instructional DVD and youre off to the races. Pretty soon youll be encouraging other beginners yourself to get started on a fitness adventure!

Pilates |