What is Pilates?

by Roxanne Larcher, © 2009

Even if you’re not a fitness fanatic, you can’t help but be bombarded with news reports, articles and comments from stars like Oprah and Madonna who are hooked on one of the hottest trends in fitness today – Pilates (pronounced Pa-laa-tees). And for the 5 million plus people who practice Pilates, it’s no secret why this method offers extraordinary benefits.

Pilates is a mind-body exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s. His method incorporates a series of resistance exercises designed to develop a balanced, sculpted body for overall well-being.

The end result? A sleek, sculpted physique with long, lean muscles like those of a dancer.

Get a Pilates body with Roxanne!

• Flatter, sculpted, stronger abs – think beautifully, chiseled stomachs
• Long, lean muscles – arms that are the talk of the town
• Increased strength and flexibility – stay active and limber
• Enhanced body awareness – move through your day with fluidity and grace

You can do Pilates on the mat or on specialized Pilates equipment such as the reformer, chair and barrel. Pilates mat classes challenge you through body work and small apparatus like fitness rings and stability balls. Specialized equipment, such as the reformer, add resistance to your movements through a sophisticated system of springs and pulleys.

Pilates is great for anyone of any age, ability or size as long as they have permission from their doctor to exercise.

Roxanne’s clients range from elite competitive U.S. Olympic athletes to senior citizens with arthritis and hip replacements, and to individuals in good health who are just looking to stay fit and trim. One client, Monica, shed 120 pounds in less than a year through half-hour Pilates sessions twice a week, two hours of indoor cycling per week and consultations with a registered dietitian.

For information about class schedules or to see if Roxanne is accepting private clients, please email Roxanne@Roxfit.com.