The Hundred: Engages the core, arms, and legs for endurance. This exercise requires controlled breathing and sustained abdominal contraction, which helps tone the entire midsection and improves circulation.
Focusing on bringing yoga to a demographic that wouldn't normally see the benefits of a method of training that incorporates breathing while moving into postures that build strength, balance, flexibility, and mental focus.
Amy M. I needed somewhere to start because it's been a while since I've exercised. Always have loved pilates. This program is perfect for me.
Leg Circles: Tones the inner thighs, glutes, and hip flexors. By maintaining a strong core and keeping movements controlled, this exercise helps sculpt the lower body while improving hip mobility.
Anna Bartter is a freelance journalist who writes about health, fitness and women's lifestyle for publications including Stylist, Metro and Psychologies, among others.
The result is strength without bulk. Muscles become more firm and defined, especially when combined with consistent training and healthy habits outside the studio.
Working out with a friend can be very inspiring and motivational, and at BodyMind Pilates we understand that connection by offering Duet Sessions. Just like Private Sessions, these classes provide access to all the equipment as well as personal training, support, and encouragement from one of our certified Pilates instructors.
Eccentric movements occur when muscles lengthen under tension, like when lowering your body in a controlled way from a bridge position. Research shows that eccentric training creates more muscle definition and strength gains compared to concentric movements.
One of the things that sets Pilates apart is the focus on precision and control. Movements are done slowly and intentionally—not just to make them harder, but to make them more effective.
Don’t be put off by it’s cool aesthetic. One of the things we love most about Pilates is that, while it is super on trend, right now, there’s a practice for everyone.
The Reformer is particularly effective for leg and arm sculpting since the added resistance intensifies the workout.
My shoulder was dislocated and ultimately, surgically repaired. I’ve been told that rehab for a shoulder is the worst part, but Dr. Jenna Smiith has made the whole process bearable. She measures progress every visit and tailors the stretches and exercises to my individual performance, or lack of. Her enthusiasm is contagious and helps to motivate me to do the stretches every day, and usually a couple of times per day. She spends time and studies how I’m moving and adjusts each stretch to maximize my efforts.
When people talk about wanting to get "toned," they’re usually looking for more muscle definition without added bulk. That look comes from pilates classes grand rapids building lean muscle while reducing body fat.
The Reformer uses springs to add resistance to exercise, and can be used for a range of strength and postural exercises. For most people, the springs alone won’t be enough to challenge their muscles in a way that builds tone and should be complemented by weights or other resistance training.