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There are a few simple pilates moves that everyone can do to help tone muscles, improve posture and trim waists and mid-section.

The Hundred.

Lay on your back on a mat or blanket. To start raise your legs perpendicular to your body. Your thighs and you abdomen should make a 90 degree angle. make a motion to nod your head and attempt to look at your belly button. Begin to pump your arms up and down inhaling to a count of five and then exhaling at a count of five. (it helps to pump your arms at the rate you are inhaling and exhaling) do ten sets to complete the hundred. (this exercise strengthens the core and tightens the abs.)

Criss-cross
Put your hands behind your head, keeping your elbows wide. raise your legs 90 degrees but keep knees bent (knees directly over your hips and toes pointed) lift your head head up and look toward your navel. tighten your lower abs, inhale and twist to your right bringing you left knee to your right elbow and extending your right leg out (toes pointed). Inhale switching knees (exhale as the leg extends). do 10 reps of this. Make sure that you do not pull on your neck. That can strain muscles. (This exercise strengthens your abs and oblique slimming the waist)

The Swan
Lay on your stomach place your chin on your elbows and point your toes. Inhale, exhale and lift your head and legs. push your arms out in a swimming motioning for a count of three. Exhale relax to start position. Inhale, exhale and repeat 10 times (this exercise strengthens the back, buttocks, and thighs)

The principle of pilates says that just ten minutes a day can improve your look and make your body feel better. Remember to take time for yourself everyday, relax and eat right. being healthy isn't just a way of life it is a state of mind. If we don't love and take care of ourselves no one will.

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