by Carolina Dream Chapman

Created on: February 01, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Pilates are a very popular way to work your body for good reason. Joseph Pilates definitely knew what he was doing in the early 20th century when he created the Pilates Method of working out. Pilates are a set of exercises that nearly everyone can do. They are easy to do without the use of equipment. Some gyms do have machines you can use for Pilates workouts, however they are not a necessity. Pilates are the only form of exercise that I have ever found that give visible results in a very short time.

The key to Pilates is fewer yet more precise moves that require concentration and correct form. While doing Pilates you concentrate on your bodies position, the moves you are doing, the muscles that are engaged as you move and your breathing as you move. The Pilates Method is a physical fitness system, each move is controlled, deliberate and effective.

When I first tried Pilates I wanted to see how quickly I would have visible results. I literally saw some small results after 15 workouts. I've never seen results that quickly from any other type of exercise.

By doing Pilates you will lengthen and strengthen your entire body, while concentrating on strengthening your core and improving your posture, with the added benifit of an invigorating stretch.

While doing Pilates it is very important to concentrate on your breathing and your form. It is important to do the moves correctly and concentrate on the muscles as you do the moves. If you are interested in learning to do Pilates there is a wide assortment of DVD's you can buy or you can take a Pilates class or even buy an illustrated book and learn the moves that way. I do however, recommend having a mirror nearby while you are learning to do Pilates so you can check your form occasionally, as proper form is very important when doing a Pilates based workout.

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