Do you know some of the top athletes improve their fitness through Pilates? Given the ease at which you can get started and how much the exercises are able to improve the tone your body it is no wonder. You will most likely notice dramatic results after a few weeks or months of continued practice. In order to avoid injury please follow the advice and guidance of a qualified Pilates instructor.
The Roll Up - Lying on your back with arms and legs stretched faraway from you. Inhale and as you do bring your arms up over your head and begin to roll up from your head and work your way down the vertebrae. Hold your abs in as they should be doing the work. You should not feel any strain on you neck or back. Roll down back to the mat slowly.
One Leg Circle Lie on your back with your legs flat on the floor and arms beside you. Raise one leg up to the ceiling toes pointed up. Now begin the circular movement rotating your leg from your hip. Lower your leg and repeat with the other leg moving in a circle one way then the other. Finish off with both legs on the floor and breath deeply.
Double Leg Stretch Lie on your back with your knees up. You want to hold both legs with your hands. Raise your shoulders off the floor. From this position you are going to extend outwards. Both your arms and legs go in opposite directions while your body remains stable. Bring your legs back to centre closed position and sweep your arms around back to centre also. If it is too difficult then you can raise your arms and legs higher, making the exercise easier.