Winsor Pilates is a workout and body toning program focusing on alignment of the spine and the core/torso related muscles which keep the body balanced and provide support to the spine. A key component of Pilates exercises is proper breathing in coordination with the exercises, to maximize blood flow to the muscles and reduce tension in the upper neck and shoulders. The goal of pilates is to increase stamina and endurance by strengthening, stretching and stabilizing key muscles.
Pilates was created by the Greek/German Joseph Pilates, who blended aerobic and yoga exercises into a physical therapy program to aid in the recovery and rehabilitation of injured and disabled veterans during WWI.
Winsor Pilates, widely advertised in infomercials and magazines, is celebrity fitness trainer Mari Winsor's spin on traditional pilates. For her 3 DVD set, Winsor has crafted full body, sculpting and toning routines which create longer and leaner muscles. The routines range from beginner to advanced, and Winsor provides instruction and alternate options to moves that are too strenuous or difficult. It's important to remember that pilates, like yoga, is more about muscle tone and building strength and flexibility - you won't burn calories here like you will jogging or cycling - but strength building is an important element of overall fitness, and is beneficial to improving metabolism. Pilates is an excellent form of low impact exercise, and the Winsor program is as good as any. Additionally, Winsor has created target area specific routines - an ab workout, a bun and thigh workout, etc. - which are also available on DVD. Pilates classes with certified instructors are available at fitness centers and studios everywhere, but if access is a problem for you, then these DVDs are a great option.
Jillian Michaels- This impressive online weight loss program was designed by the world-class fitness trainer from the popular TV shows Losing it with Jillian and The Biggest Loser. The program focuses on what works in the long term: motivation to lose weight the right way and keep it off. Her inexpensive diet and exercise plans are personalized to your comfort level as you get in shape and lose weight. Jillian Michaels has created quite a buzz and she deserves it. Her program is free to try.
Copyright 2001-2010 Chase Freedom Inc. "Chase Freedom" is a registered trademark of Chase Freedom Inc. All diet reviews are opinion and unscientific and should not be substituted for the advice of a doctor or registered dietitian. We do endorse and maintain affiliate status with weight loss companies and programs that conform to our opinion that sensible weight loss is best. This opinion includes the following traits: inexpensive, based on traditional strategies of diet and exercise, and independent. Companies and programs include eDiets, Nutrisystem, Jillian Michaels, Denise Austin, Sonoma Diet, Joy's Life Diet, South Beach Diet, Fitness Model Program, Dietwatch, Diet-To-Go among others.
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