Softcover

ISBN 10: 0736056238 ISBN 13: 9780736056236

Publisher: Human Kinetics, 2006

Strengthen, lengthen, and sculpt your muscles with the full range of Pilates exercises. In Pilates, world-renowned Pilates expert Rael Isacowitz shows you the same repertoire that he has used to train 10 Olympians, including U.S. figure skater Sasha Cohen and diver Wendy Williams, as well as an elite group of professional instructors who work with celebrities and athletes around the world.

Starting with the foundation for all the exercises, Pilates presents an in-depth treatment of mat work, including photo illustrations and detailed breathing instruction to help you perform the movements correctly. A unique set of challenging exercise sequences allows the movements to flow in one continuous motion.

Following mat work, where most books stop entirely, Pilates just gets going. The same depth of instruction and photo illustrations are applied to the full range of Pilates apparatus:

- Reformer

- Cadillac

- Step and ladder barrels

- Magic circle

- Wunda chair

- Ped-a-pul

- Arm chair

The complete repertoire includes a customized grouping of exercises in blocks that progress from the fundamental level through the intermediate and advanced levels to challenge you at all stages of Pilates development.

With 210 exercises in all, Pilates is the most comprehensive guide available on the Pilates method. A contemporary approach to the work of Joseph Pilates, this is the one book you need in order to improve posture, muscle tone, core strength, and flexibility.

About the Author:

Rael Isacowitz, MA, is the founder of Body Arts and Science International (BASI), an international organization devoted to Pilates education. Recognized as a contemporary approach to the works of Joseph Pilates, this teacher-training program is active in more than 12 countries around the globe. As a leading expert in the Pilates method, Isacowitz has close to 30 years of experience practicing and lecturing in universities, clinics, and studios worldwide. With a rich background as a dancer, athlete, yogi, and Pilates practitioner, Isacowitz brings to his teaching unparalleled expertise combined with a passion for his work.

In collaboration with Balanced Body, the largest Pilates equipment manufacturer in the world, Isacowitz designed the concept for a new line of Pilates apparatus and has been featured in numerous publications in several languages all over the world. He served on the board of the Pilates Method Alliance and has been a driving force in several initiatives advocating educational standards in the Pilates community. He continues to support this organization and others in various countries, striving to set industry guidelines and maintain the integrity of Pilates.

Isacowitz received his teaching credentials (DipPE) and bachelor of education degree in Israel at the prestigious Wingate Institute of Physical Education, where he was later invited to join the faculty. Isacowitz went on to complete his master of arts degree in dance at the University of Surrey, England.

Review:

"While other Pilates books cover limited apparatus, this is the first truly complete guide to Pilates technique, exercises and equipment. A thorough, well-written, and useable guide to proper Pilates practice."

Kirkus Reports - Health & Fitness