The Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates: The Essential Guide to Total Body Fitness
Celebrity trainer and Pilates guru Brooke Siler teams up with the editors of Women’s Health to offer a comprehensive, authoritative manual on this proven fitness philosophy.
Trained by Joseph Pilates’ protégé, Romana Kryzanowska, Brooke is an unparalleled expert and one of the most sought after teachers for her signature body re-shaping techniques. Combining the best of flexibility and strength training, Pilates is the path to the lean fit body every woman craves—and the Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates guides readers in every step (and leg lift … ) of the way. Using the body as the ultimate fitness vehicle, Pilates transforms bodies in record time. From moves targeting trouble zones to cardio circuits that blast fat all over, this go-to manual covers everything including:
· How to incorporate Pilates at work, in travel, and in your daily routine
· What props to use to best boost your workout
· Pilates principles to help combat lower back pain, stress, low energy, and more!
From basic mat moves to the right foods that fuel a lean toned figure, the Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates is the go-to guide for beginners and experts alike.
I have other Pilates books but this one is really good. It has lots of visual diagrams and lots of cues on how to do the exercises properly.
Thank you!
Fort those who have Siler's original book, "The Pilates Body", I would still highly recommend this book, which is far more expansive and again, the photos!
It is easy-to-read and interesting as well.
Brooke is not only showing you the moves but tells about the history of pilates and its basics.
Hope it will be same useful for all the readers
The next section is "Pilates for your Plate," which teaches you how to eat healthy. Then is a chapter on technique -- do not skip this chapter! It explains how to do the exercises with proper form. She also includes several modifications, such as for low-back problems or knee problems.
The next section, "Pilates on the Mat: The Series," is divided up into 4 levels, of increasing advancement. So you can start with the level you feel most comfortable. The way the exercises are illustrated is very clear and concise -- a photo of the exercise being performed, and many notes on technique, breathing, and tips and sometimes variations. A beginner would have no problem following it, and even a Pilates veteran would find more information and variations to keep them interested.
After each Level's mat exercises there are a series of "Enders," which include a lot of toning with weights -- done with Pilates techniques of course. For those wanting to use some gadgets & gear there's also a chapter using props such as bands, Magic Circle, Swiss ball, steps, and Tensatoner. A door anchor may be required to do the exercises with the elastic bands.
Another section, "Pilates by Posture," delves into some common postural problems (and how they affect your body) and how to correct them. As a Physical Therapy student, I was particularly interested in this, because I have seen the difference it makes in, for example, back pain, when postural imbalances are corrected.
The next section, "Pinpoint Pilates," goes into detail of how to work on specific problem areas -- abs, back, glutes, arms, thighs, and legs/feet. This is followed by "Pilates by Purpose," which focuses on specific goals such as cardio/calorie burn, breathing & endurance, and better flexibility and strength. For athletes, the "Pilates by Pursuit" chapter gives exercises to improve your sport, whether it's running, swimming, or cycling. Lastly, the "Pilates Rx" chapter gives exercises to help with chronic pain in back, shoulders, neck, etc. which may be the result of muscle imbalances.
Throughout this amazingly detailed and well-organized book, Siler gives "Trainer's Tips" and loads of other info about each exercise and about Pilates in general. This is, quite possibly, the only Pilates book you'll ever need.
It is full of information on how to execute
each mat exercise in precious wording.
I will be buying several more for gifts.
Great teacher- great photos- very usable with tons of great information. A must for any serious Pilates student or teacher : )
jack
I have read it cover to cover and starting from the level 1 exercises. The explanations are easy to follow, aided by diagrams, and have helped me begin to increase my strength and range of motion again. I feel like I've been introduced into a new way of fitness and am looking forward to progressing further.
Love this book and would definitely recommend it.
A number of folks on my Christmas shopping list will be receiving this GREAT gift for their good behaviour this year. Thank you Brooke Siler and Women's Health for this encyclopedia of Pilates mastery!!