The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning: Introduction to the Core Exercises - Softcover

Gallagher, Sean P.; Kryzanowska, Romana; Speleotis, Steven

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1891696084 ISBN 13: 9781891696084

Publisher: Bainbridge Books, 1999

Synopsis

Demontrates hundreds of low-stress exercises designed to firm the body, improve flexibility, and increase strength and endurance

About this title

Review

There's a photo of Joseph Pilates on the back cover of this book. He looks like a strapping young James Dean, with rippled abdominal muscles and defined--but not creepily large--quads, pecs, and biceps. He could pass for 30, but he was almost 60 years old when the photo was taken.

Pilates (Pi-LAH-teez) started an exercise program called Contrology, a low-impact series of hundreds of exercises designed to maximize abdominal strength while toning and increasing flexibility in the rest of the body. Once used primarily by professional ballet companies, the Pilates Method is now taught in major cities in 17 countries and is considered to be the world's fastest growing exercise program. Enthusiasts swear that for little effort--you're not very likely to break a sweat during class--the muscle-toning benefits are outstanding. The Pilates Method is especially useful for many people for relieving chronic back and joint pain. Some famous heavenly bodies rely on the Method, including newly buff Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, Julia Roberts, Jessica Lange, and Sharon Stone. Dancers Martha Graham and George Balanchine were also devotees.

The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning was cowritten by Romana Kryzanowska, the last living disciple of Joseph Pilates. With more than 300 step-by-step photos of 70 exercises, it's a solid and safe introduction to the core exercises of the program. Most can be performed on an exercise mat, but some require special Pilates equipment, such as resistance springs, which can be ordered from the resources in the back of the book. If you'd rather not make the financial investment in the equipment, you'll still very much appreciate the dozens of pointers on posture, technique, and breathwork for use during classes. --Erica Jorgensen

From Library Journal

Shortly after World War I, Joseph Pilates, an accomplished nurse, gymnast, skier, and boxer, perfected a rehabilitation and conditioning program of "Balanced Body" exercise by combining both Eastern and Western philosophies. For almost 70 years his low-stress program, which concentrates on proper breathing, body alignment, and improved concentration, was used primarily by performing artists and athletes, but it is now becoming popular with the general public because it provides a no-impact workout appropriate for all fitness levels from the sedentary intellectual to the professional dancer. The Pilates Method can also be used safely by pregnant women and seniors. Gallagher, founder of the worldwide chain of Pilates Studios and professional physical therapist for ballet companies, and Kryzanowska, a master trainer and personal friend of Pilates, have compiled a comprehensive resource that details more than 70 exercises with over 300 photos. A section on frequently asked questions, a summary of core exercises, a glossary, weekly exercise plans, web sites, lists of certifying centers and certified instructors, and a "how to" list for purchasing equipment all add to the value of this excellent handbook. Recommended for all fitness collections.ARebecca Cress-Ingebo, Wright State Univ Libs., Dayton, OH
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Bainbridge Books
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 1891696084
• ISBN 13: 9781891696084
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208