Exercise Equipment FAQs

Milos Pesic asked:


Founded by Joseph Pilates, the Pilates Exercise Method is one of the most popular fitness trends today. Pilates is an exercise method that combines different body movements that will strengthen, stretch, and control the muscles and body. It uses breathing, concentration, and core exercises to accomplish these goals.

The Pilates Method of Exercise seeks to improve the over-all health and well-being of its participants. The mind works in conjunction with the muscles to strengthen the back and abdomen, or core muscles and increase flexibility there. Another benefit is that it increases lung capacity, because exercises incorporate deep breathing while exercising.

For many years, it has been gathering the momentum of increases popularity. The rich and famous seem to be drawn to the Pilates Method, with Marissa Tomei, Jennifer Aniston, and Julia Roberts, among others who are practicing and loving the Pilates Method. So, why are so many people turning to Pilates to get fit? If there are so many famous people and others using it, Pilates must have some great benefits.

There are a couple of different ways to exercise using this Method. One way involves primarily the floor exercises, which are less expensive and more convenient than conventional classes. The only equipment needed to practice the floor exercises is a floor mat and a trainer or video. If you can’t afford a personal trainer, then you need to go with the video option. There are many reliable video programs available now with certified Pilates instructors doing the teaching. Be cautious when working without a trainer because the Pilates exercises could cause injury if done improperly.

The other way to exercise is to join a gym that has Pilates machines and equipment and regular classes and certified instructors on staff. These types of gyms usually involve some sort of membership with monthly or yearly fees.

Whichever way you choose to exercise using the Pilates Method, you need to be comfortable, so wear light clothes, such as tights and a tank top. You should stay focused when the instructor teaches you how to breath and move properly. There is no way to accomplish your goals if you do not stay focused and disciplined enough to do the exercises the right way.

Any participant should begin the program with the simplest of routines, working his way up to more advanced and complex routines. Using this method, you will be less likely to suffer an injury while exercising.

The Pilates Method of Exercise focus mainly on increasing strength and flexibility, so two 50 minute sessions only burn about 250 calories. Therefore, you need to combine Pilates with some sort of cardiovascular exercises, like fast walking or swimming, that will burn more calories for optimum health.

You shouldn’t join the Pilates Method of Exercise just because it’s the popular thing to do. If you participate for those reasons, you will fail to achieve any long-term fitness goals. However, if you stick with the program and stay focused, it will help you by conditioning your muscles and mind. You will soon began to see subtle changes in your muscle tone and flexibility, which will make your daily tasks easier, your body stronger, and your mind calmer. The Pilates Method of Exercise is a great workout with many benefits for anyone.

Fit Yummy Mummy!

Natalie Shelby asked:


I obtained the best results myself by doing my workout 3 times a week and sometimes I’d jump on it while watching television on my days off just because I liked it so much. I sold my Total Gym on Ebay after getting a pilates machine, but I have to admit this full body fitness machine is easier and more fun to use. That was one time I shouldn’t have opted for the next trendy fitness machine that showed up on television because I really regret selling mine.

It’s user friendly and believe me even doing squats is great because it is easy on the joints and you can feel it toning your legs and **** which to me is very motivating knowing that these stubborn areas are being lifted. The bench is put in an incline position, so your back is supported. Your feet are kept sturdy by a nice platform and all you do is bounce up and down, pushing up with the resistance of your own body weight. There are so many ways to do squats, with your feet turned outward or inward, one leg at a time, fast or slow, the options are endless! It amazes me how many repetitions I can do on the Total Gym. You’ll have a toned body in no time! I also love how I can use it like a pilates machine – great for stretching to get that long lean look.

Total Gym takes care of your aerobics routine too, all in one machine. You will work up a sweat and build that much needed cardio strength. There is an awesome exercise for every part of the body. This home fitness gym works many body parts at the same time, which makes it a very cool piece of equipment. Abs, arms, chest, you name it the Total Gym works you from head to toe.

Many people are looking to build muscle. The Total Gym has you covered in this area too, as you set your body resistance by how high you incline the bench. Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley certainly have maintained a great looking body by using this total fitness gym as their main source of exercise. He has very nice muscles and Christie is well toned for a woman in her fifties.

This home gym doesn’t take up a lot of room, folds away easily, but you’ll most likely leave it out all the time like I did. I used to put on some of my favorite music and sometimes I’d workout longer than intended. It’s worth the money and is made of great quality. If I ever buy another one, I will buy from Ebay because there is a huge selection of great deals much less than buying direct. You can get a brand new Total Gym XLS for less than I paid for mine 10 years ago! I highly recommend this fitness home gym and I hope you’ll check out the deals I’ve found from trusted sellers on Ebay before you make a purchase so you can save money.

Fit Yummy Mummy!

Ilse Hagen asked:


Pilates is currently one of the most popular physical fitness methods that is suitable for both men and women. The moves help strengthen your muscles, improve your flexibility, and teach control and balance while improving your physical and mental well-being. Achieving those benefits can be made easier by wearing appropriate clothing suitable for the exercise. Therefore, make sure that you have the right Pilates outfits in your closet before you begin your first session.

Pilates clothing: the basics

Pilates clothing provides you with more comfort while doing the necessary moves and poses. The fit is very snug and comfortable since the clothes are made of jersey and cotton-soft materials that allow you to move freely. Often times, the most basic of Pilates outfits consist of a top or a shirt along with a pair of loose shorts or pants. In some cases, you can be provided with a jacket or a sweater especially when the weather is cooler. Most outfits are also designed to look sporty or casual so you can also have the option to wear them when you need to go out and run errands or for other types of exercises and sport that you are interested in.

The fit is comfortable and snug

If you are buying your Pilates outfits, make sure that they feel comfortable and soft against your body. Choose clothes that are made of light and soft fabrics that follow your movements. And since you are likely to sweat, choose an outfit with sweat-absorbent or wicking fabric so sweat won’t stick to your skin. Clothes made of cotton are among the best choices.

As for the fit, your clothes should be snug but comfortable on your body. If you want to wear sweaters or other cover-ups while doing your moves, something a little loose can be appropriate or you can choose something that is more snug for more freedom in movements.

Fit Yummy Mummy!