Tag Archives: Pilates

The 5 Indoor Fitness Trends Your Body Deserves to Try This Fall

Resolution season is just around the corner, which means now is the time to get serious about your fitness. Make your outdoor workout continue for as long as possible, but when the cold sets in leave your excuses at the door! Whether you’re moving the workout indoors or it’s just time to explore some new ideas for staying active, these hot fitness trends will satisfy your body’s need to sweat and move.

Here are 5 ways to stay fit for fall:

1. POUND

We spoke with former drummers Christine Perrenboom and Kirsten Potenza as they combined their passions for music and fitness to create POUND, a full-body cardio workout that uses lightweight drumsticks to beat out rhythms to high intensity music, plus some Pilates and plyometrics. Torch up to 900 calories in 45 minutes at Crunch gyms or through their DVDs. We seriously love this liberating workout!

2. PiYo

A little bit Pilates, a little bit yoga, and maybe even a little bit rock ‘n roll. PiYo is a total mind-and-body workout that boosts the energy of the class with upbeat music. You’ll torch calories during this strength and cardio class, which introduces elements of Pilates, yoga, and even dance and martial arts. PiYo is not to be confused with Yogalates. (more…)

Posted on October 28, 2023 by Katie McGrath

Breaking Down the Barre Craze: Which Ballet-Inspired Workout is On Pointe for You?

Ballet dancers have flexible bodies conditioned from hours of training. Their specialized workouts create long and lean frames — think Natalie Portman in Black Swan. Their shapely legs, abs, thighs and buttocks come through hybrid weight training, Pilates and cardio workouts with some straight-up ballet pole (barre) stretching.

Their moves are spreading like wildfire, and barre-style workouts are popping up throughout the world with a variety of applications. From sweat-inducing cardio sessions that are hardly a dainty ballet class, to classes that stay true to their ballerina roots, there is a barre workout for you!

If you don’t want to dance in Swan Lake, but do want to get a more toned ballet-ready body, read on as we break down the different methods and tell you which celebrities are on pointe for this craze.

It doesn’t matter which class you choose — you are gonna WORK!

BEYONDBARRE

Feel the burn and see the results in your core, arms and legs, and the glutes.

You’ll need a ballet barre, a handrail (or a counter top), and a super cool GlideBoard.

Inspired by ballet, ice skating, and intense cardio classes.

Differs from others because of an intense approach that incorporates cardio for fat burning and endurance.

Attend a class at one of a dozen studios in the U.S.

BARRE3

Described as “ballet meets yoga and Pilates”

Utilizes a 3-step method where poses are held for longer periods with focus on small muscle movements. Session ends with a cardio blast.

Celebrity fans include Madonna, who may be striking a pose beside you at your next Barre3 class.

Required accessories include a yoga mat, small “prop” ball, ballet barre or sturdy chair.

Classes popping up in over 30 US cities, Canada and even the Philippines with more coming soon. DVDs: Seven different workouts sold on the Barre3.com website.

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Posted on August 27, 2023 by Dani Stone

The Best Workouts For Moms: Options for Every Type of Exerciser

Mother’s Day has come and gone, but I’m of the opinion that we should always celebrate moms. After all, mothers work harder than most of us—changing diapers, packing lunches, checking homework, and doing whatever else needs doing. And sometimes, if they’re lucky, moms make time to work out, giving themselves that same sort of TLC they traditionally dole out on others. What are the best ways for moms to get in shape? I’m glad you asked!

Prenatal Workouts
Doctors say pre-baby fitness is a good thing for mother and child. Classes like Fit4Baby and prenatal yoga are designed to increase energy during pregnancy and reduce regular maternal aches. Many women say the classes actually ease labor and the recovery process, plus they connect you with a network of expecting women just like you. Sounds perfect!

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Posted on June 12, 2023 by Jessica Tholmer

Sweat like a Celebrity: 3 Hot Workout Spots Frequented by Stars

I know I shouldn’t be more inclined to try a workout routine or class or gym based on which celebrities endorse it, but I can’t help myself—I’m attracted to places know my favorite actors and actresses also enjoy. Spin classes are a Hollywood haven for A-list actresses? Sign me up! The High School Musical cast loves Pilates? Awesome—see you on the Reformer! Crunch has a catchy name and I might run into Leonardo DiCaprio?! I. Am. In.

Let’s discuss three of the hottest workout spots for some well-known names and faces, shall we? Maybe I’ll see you there!

1. WundaBar
WundaBar is a Hollywood Pilates studio, and we all know how celebrities love their Pilates. (Well, who doesn’t?) The recently engaged Ashley Tisdale was introduced to WundaBar through Vanessa Hudgens, her High School Musical co-star. (I love when co-stars remain friends, especially through workout routines!) Tisdale reportedly works with a personal trainer most of the time, but also has lessons with WundaBar’s Amy Jordan, the founder of the gym. (more…)

Posted on February 21, 2024 by Jessica Tholmer

Work it Off: Burn Away the 250 Calories from 2 Glasses of Red Wine

This year my family skipped the holiday get-together, opting instead to gather for a mid-January weekend in Sonoma, California. Sonoma, which is about an hour and a half north of San Francisco, is in the heart of California wine country. My parents, sister, and I all agreed this was the perfect destination for a getaway because we’re all oenophiles. (Oenophile? I know. It’s a pretentious word that’s impossible to pronounce, but it sounds so much more dignified than, “we all really enjoy a good glass of Pinot”.)

It probably goes without say that there was a lot of wine on the menu this weekend. There were wine tastings at a few vineyards and then large dinners which were, of course, accompanied by more vino. The food was spectacular—that’s another given in NorCal—but it’s the wine I’m most worried about throwing off my resolutions.

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Posted on January 19, 2024 by Jessica Cassity

14-Move Pilates Workout by Laura Tarbell is the Perfect Complement to Running

While running is one of the most natural and instinctive exercises, it’s also one of the most injury prone. According to CoreRunning.com, “Research shows that if you run regularly, you have a 37–56% chance of getting injured. The majority of these injuries are overuse injuries to the musculoskeletal system (comprised of the muscles, tendons, joint tissues, ligaments and bones). What’s even worse, researchers estimate that up to 70% of injuries are likely to reoccur!”

So what if there was an exercise program that reduced the risk of injury and allowed you to improve speed at the same time?

Enter Pilates, the perfect complement to running. Where running is high impact, Pilates is low impact; where running creates muscle imbalance, Pilates promotes balance; and where running creates tightness, Pilates promotes mobility. Performed correctly, Pilates will strengthen muscles, ligaments, and tendons to guard against impact, improve form, and create a consistent gait. This strong and efficient running body will allow you to run faster for longer while minimizing the chance of injury. This program will improve any imbalances in the body, strengthen the core, and increase overall flexibility. (more…)

Posted on August 14, 2023 by GuestBlogger

Laura Tarbell’s Pilates for Runners is Necessary to Overcome the Rough Side Effects of the Sport

“Joseph Pilates once said, ‘We are only as young as our spine.’ And how true that is!” These were Laura Tarbell’s closing words as she explained the details of her new DVD, Pilates for Runners. Designing this workout especially for strengthening runners is something Laura explained is close to her heart.

“Our spine is involved in everything we do, especially running! Therefore, as runners, we especially need to take the utmost care of our spines and strengthen the deep muscles of the core to ensure the opportunity to run for decades and for the lasting health of our bodies.”

These were similar words different professionals have passed on to me as my body has been reacting to all the stress I put it through during marathon training. I used Tarbell’s workout and was quickly made aware just how badly my body needs Pilates.

Tarbell was an athlete with chronic pain issues all during her young years. She discovered Pilates and felt she had found the missing puzzle piece.

“The addition of Pilates to my routine gave me a new perspective. I became intentional with how I moved my body. I learned how to stabilize my core to maintain good form and posture at the end of a hard race or long run. It helped me to get faster. It helped me build confidence,” said Laura, who continued to say Pilates increased the efficiency of her movements, in all aspects of her life, not just running. (more…)

Posted on August 6, 2023 by Lacy

Saturday Morning Drill: Combine Pilates and Yoga in Two Moves

Eventually, no matter how many times you extend into upward dog and stretch back into downward dog, your body will start to adapt and you will hit a plateau in strength and endurance. While we know the goal of practicing yoga is not always about muscular development, when you do want to get stronger, adding Pilates to your yoga sequence is a great way to make that happen.

The following two Pilates-inspired exercises will help you wake up your core and take your yoga practice to an entirely new level. For best results, practice each exercise back-to-back, and in the middle of your yoga sequence, when your body is warm and limber.

Criss Cross Exercise

From a supine position, bring both hands behind your head. Bend both knees and stack them directly over your hips. Lift your head and chest and twist your upper body to the right while extending your left leg at a 45-degree angle. (more…)

Posted on January 19, 2024 by Jill

Diet Buddies Jennifer Garner and Reese Witherspoon Offer a Valuable Hollywood Weight Loss Tip

After drinking your water and getting plenty of exercise, buddying up is typically one of the top diet tips that experts offer. It provides accountability, someone to use as a sounding board, and someone to offer endless high fives when you need them most. It’s not just something we all use out here in the real world as it seems the Hollywood set believes in “diet buddies,” too.

Jennifer Garner and Reese Witherspoon, both of whom delivered their third child this year, seem to have buddied up to support one another in getting back to their pre-baby bodies. According to reports from FemaleFirst.co.uk, the moms speed dial when their insatiable sweet tooths attack.

And since they’re practically neighbors, the two have been seen attending Pilates classes together.

If anyone is taking diet advice from Hollywood, we’d say this is the place to start. Forget the pills and potions and partner up instead!

“When dieting, there are many people who may unintentionally tempt you to break your commitment to healthier living through peer pressure. A diet buddy can be your support in these situations and other tempting scenarios,” explained Brooke Randolph, LMHC, our resident mental health expert. “Food can be closely tied to our emotions and mental functioning, so a diet buddy can also provide emotional support and commiseration.” (more…)

Posted on December 17, 2023 by Natalie K

The Nike Studio Wrap is the Yoga Industry’s Latest Innovation

The sale of yoga swag helps support what is now a six billion dollar industry. From ToeSox to yoga tops, yoga studios are stocking up on merchandise to sell to their peace-seeking supporters.

In today’s world, it is not uncommon to drop over a hundred bucks on either a set of yoga videos, one pair of yoga pants, and even a yoga mat. Companies such as Gaiam, Lululemon, and Manduka do not deny the capitalistic nature of the yoga business. They manufacture innovative and quality products just as fast as you can say “om.”

It is not just the smaller retail companies enjoying the fruits of the growing yoga tree. Big name brands are also getting in on the action. The latest innovation to hit the market is the Nike Studio Wrap. While it may sound like a sarong you might don at the beach, the Nike Studio Wrap is actually a pair of shoes.

Inspired by the need to maintain a firm base of support, beyond what a yoga mat can provide, the Nike Studio Wrap was created for women who spend hours working out in the studio.

Whether it is in yoga, Pilates, or ballet-fitness classes, women can now wrap up their feet in this stylish three-part system that involves a wrap, a ribbon, and a flat bottom surface. (more…)

Posted on November 15, 2023 by Jill

GST Workouts Blend Yoga, Pilates, and Capoeira to Help Bodies Heal and Rehabilitate after Injuries

Let’s face it, sometimes physical activity can be painful. People can throw their back out from lifting weights or tear their ACL while playing basketball. One mishap in the gym, court, or playing field can leave your body damaged. And, getting your body back to its original state will take lots of physical therapy. Yet, after physical therapy your body might not be back at its prime as it was before you got hurt.

Grace Somatomorphic^TM Technique, known simply as GST, is a workout that reshapes and heals your body for a better, stronger, and healthier you. After years of dancing took a toll on Anna Rahe and left her in pain, she was in need of therapeutic fitness but couldn’t find anything. So she created GST with her knowledge of fitness and its scientifically-supported research.

Anna wanted to teach others GST because it helps the body become pain free while toning to be more beautiful. “GST is also more than just a workout- it is a way of life. In addition, the process of GST directly engages the brain’s powerful desire and inclination for neuro-plasticity- to grow and change.”

GST’s philosophy is motivation, exploration, identification, excavation, assimilation, restoration, and transformation.

Motivation: Why do you want to better your health?

Exploration: Search for answers and try new things.

Identification: Understand what is wrong with your body and health.

Excavation: Dig and find new information that will help your restoration and transformation.

Restoration: Restore your body to its original health.

Transformation: Take your body’s health to the next level and transform it to a healthier better you.

There are four types of programs GST offers, each designed to heal and restore the body: Somatiques, Athletic, Body Shaping, and Pregnancy. The classes differ by the types of techniques that are used to heal and restore the body. (more…)

Posted on October 15, 2023 by Samantha

Tag Archives: Pilates

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