The Pilates Body Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Prior to receiving this book as a gift, I had never done Pilates, but I had read about the method and was intrigued by it. Author Brooke Siler writes in a straightforward manner; she provides important and helpful information without overdoing it. She begins with a brief discussion of the origins of the Pilates method as a means to explain the value of this technique; she then goes on to describe the most important components of the Pilates philosophy and reviews in practical terms how these apply to the exercises. For example, she thoroughly explains the concept of the "powerhouse," the band of muscles which form a belt around the abdomen and back and which serve as the foundation for Pilates practice.

With respect to the exercises themselves, Siler is detailed and meticulous. She carefully describes each exercise using easy-to-understand metaphors (eg, imagining your midsection is sewn to the ground or your arms are held down with weights) exceptional graphics, and clear photographic illustrations of student models. With respect to the three models, each one is specifically designated to portray either the beginner, intermediate, or advanced moves, which helps make the exercise levels extremely easy to follow. Furthermore, Siler provides outstanding information on how Pilates students can build their routine from the beginning to more advanced levels of practice. As mentioned, each exercise is clearly marked for the appropriate level, and Siler explains how to start with a modified beginner series of moves and then to add new exercises gradually as appropriate. At the end of the book, Siler includes some additional moves that are not part of the traditional Pilates matwork series, including the standing arm series.

The book includes photographs of Joseph Pilates, inventor and founder of the Pilates method, at various ages to further highlight the benefit of this exercise technique. It is also important to note that Siler was trained by Romana Kryzanowska, who was chosen by Joseph Pilates and his wife to be their successor; this means that Siler's book follows the authentic exercises and sequencing patterns taught by Pilates himself many years ago. As an instructor, Siler has a very down-to-earth, non-intimidating manner; she is warm, supportive, encouraging, and enthusiastic, qualities which shine through the pages of her book.

Now that I'm more experienced with the Pilates method via classes and videos, I've come to appreciate this book even more, as I have found that it gave me a solid foundation in the Pilates technique-when I tried classes and videos for the first time, I found that I already knew exactly how to perform each exercise correctly. The book serves as an excellent adjunct to video workouts, as no where else will you find such thorough and detailed information on form as Siler provides here, and I still return to the book frequently for reminders and tips. Highly recommended for both beginning and more experienced Pilates practitioners!

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Product Description:
The Pilates method may be today's hottest exercise, but it has been endorsed by physicians for almost a century. Originally developed by Joseph H. Pilates to help strengthen and condition muscles, Pilates is the ultimate mind-body exercise for anyone who wants to tone, streamline, and realign their body without the bulked-up results of more conventional workout methods. Now, in The Pilates Body, author Brooke Siler--one of the most sought-after personal trainers in the country and owner of New York's top studio for Pilates training, provides a complete, easy-to follow program of Pilates exercises that can be done anywhere, anytime, and without machines. With step-by-step instructions, Siler guides the reader through the complete circuit of mat exercises, each of which is clearly illustrated by photographs, line drawings, and unique visualization exercises.