Pilates Basics (Full Color 2nd Edition): Master Pilates Fundamentals as You Strengthen, Align, and Balance from Within

The long-awaited 3rd edition of Master Pilates Instructor, Jillian Hessel's, landmark "how to" instructional book, Pilates Basics, is finally back on the shelf! This book was written for anyone who wants to learn Pilates at home, without using any expensive props, and it is meant for people of any fitness level.

Whether you are are overweight and out of shape, a weekend warrior, or a professional athlete, you can definitely benefit and learn from this book! The original gorgeous, full color photos, modeled by Hessel herself, are retained in this new, larger (8 1/2" x 11") format edition. Featuring an updated Introduction, the opening chapters focus on teaching you how to achieve optimal posture and more efficient breathing.

Next, come the trademark B.E.A.M. Fundamentals, Hessel's own unique set of Pre-Pilates exercises. B.E.A.M. stands for: Breathe, Energize, Align and Move. Hessel then guides you through a basic, well balanced and complete Classic Pilates Mat workout, featuring 21 of Joseph Pilates' original Mat exercises. You'll also learn how to modify and adjust each of the classic exercises for your own body. The closing chapter features a bonus section of quick, 5-minute auxiliary exercises you can do anytime, anywhere!

The layout of Pilates Basics is the key to its' success, and the genius of the interior design completely sets it apart from all other instructional Pilates books. As in Joseph Pilates original how to book, "Return to Life," there is the usual series of sequenced photographs of the exercises.

HOWEVER, the similarity stops there! Hessel has added two side panels, on either side of the instructional text and photos, for each exercise. The panel on the left hand side features bullet points, reminding you consistently how to apply her foundational B.E.A.M. Fundamentals. The panel on the right hand side shows photos of the most common pitfalls that you might fall into during each exercise. This special DON"T do this! feature will definitely help you to avoid these common mistakes.

Unlike other workout routines, Pilates isn't exhausting, it's invigorating! Make Pilates Basics part of your regular exercise program, and you're guaranteed to be on your way to a whole new, re-energized, streamlined, strong and elegant you!

Jillian Hessel has been teaching Pilates since 1981. Known for her concise verbal instruction and crystal clear imagery, Jillian Hessel has written feature articles for Pilates Style Magazine, Yoga Journal, and IDEA Fitness Today and numerous online blogs and publications. She has her own line of Instructional DVDs & Handbooks for Pilates teachers, and mentors Certified Pilates Teachers through her “Keeping the Flame” Intensive Retreat program. You can take her online classes at PilatesAnytime.com.