Hi. I just started a pilates DVD. I feel like the upper body/core is challenging but the lower body I don't feel much while I'm doing it, and I don't feel it later either. I'm hoping you pilates masters out there can give me some insight into this new exercise I'm trying, and please provide suggestions of DVD's where you really saw results in your body.
Thank you!
Hi A V,
I had great luck with Windsor Pilates videos. I rotated between the 20 min Full Body, Legs, upper body, Abs, and tried to do the hr video when I could. I never felt like I was working out hard and was never very sore, but I did see results in my body tone and flexibility. If you're looking to lose weight and not just tone, you'll probably want to add some cardio in addition to doing pilates. Good luck!
Hello there,
I am currently training to be an instructor of Pilates. I suggest using the library as a wealth of resources to check out a variety of DVD's - then choose your favorite presenter or difficulty level from that free overview.
Stabilizing the core or "powerhouse" (midsection) is what Pilates is based on. Stabilizing the core is actually more important that how large a circle or corkscrew you can do with the legs.
Also, when you stand in the "Pilates stance" or lie on the floor on your side - there are three areas you should be focusing on stabilizing - the core, the pelvic floor, AND the upper/inner thighs. This is foreign to most people unless they were dancers. So practice (even standing in line at the store) feet in a V, pulling the navel in towards the spine AND up tucking it under the lower ribs, adding a kegel (stop flow of urine)to pull up the pelvic floor, AND Pull up thru the inner and upper thighs - while relaxing the quads (outer thighs). then add an isolated leg circle, etc and have someone watch to see that you are still isolating the core. Double leg lift from a side lying position, make sure your waist is lifted off the floor - not collapsing down. Think long torso. Then isolate the upper leg, while the lower leg comes up to meet it - repeat 8 times. Then gently freestyle kick the legs with just light fingertips on the floor in front of you for support. Making sure core is not moving. You will feel it. Let me know how it goes. P.
Sorry I don't check this very much. But I to also do pilates. I love the windsor pilates buns and thighs. You can feel it working from the start and it will make you buns like rocks when you flex. My husband loves it and so do I. After you do it for a little bit you don't feel it as much but it is still working it's just your getting use to it.
If you'd like something to challenge you in the lower core check into the Kinetics Bands from myosource.com. They are wonderful and you can use them with any workout regiment and while cleaning the house. They're easy to use.
Hello, yes, I tried Pilates and had ok results. I couldn't really get used to those moves, but I think it's great for those who like it. However, I had excellent results with a program called Slim in 6 from beachbody.com. I was able to transform my body in 6 weeks and everyone knew I had recently had a baby and people kept asking me what I was doing. I also made better choices in the foods that I ate and that made a difference as well. Best wishes!
