Do you dream of a flat stomach, a longer, leaner body and superb posture? Do you wish to improve your overall appearance? Pilates will help you achieve all this – and more.20 Minutes to Master Pilates is a clear introduction to the practice and its background, guiding you through key exercises that benefit both body and mind.Pilates is a disciplined, focused form of exercise, designed to strengthen ligaments and joints, increase flexibility and lengthen the muscles. In this book you will discover a unique bodywork system that will help you transform your body and develop a physical presence and energy that exudes total confidence and grace.Previously published as First Directions: Pilates, this ebook brings together classic text, written by an expert in the field, with a new chapter that condenses all the ideas and practices into a simple, digestible 20-minute read. It covers:• What Pilates is, its background, history and principles• Key exercises to work different parts of the body• Essential techniques to ensure you are exercising efficiently and effectively• Watchpoints to ensure you are exercising safelyThis is part of the 20 Minutes to Master series, ten indispensable guides that can show you how to transform your life in simple and effective ways. Other titles in the series include 20 Minutes to Master Your Psychic Potential, 20 Minutes to Master NLP, 20 Minutes to Master Past Life Therapy, 20 Minutes to Master Yoga and 20 Minutes to Master Pilates.
Easy-to-follow 10 minute routines using the Pilates exercise ball to enhance your Pilates workout, from the bestselling Lesley Ackland. Used by Olympic coaches, ballet dancers and athletes to achieve optimal performance, this safe and effective exercise regime is also suitable for anyone wanting to get fit and toned, as well as pregnant women.• Pilates is famous for being a safe and effective exercise regime that gives you long, toned limbs, great posture and amazing abdominal strength. The large inflated Swiss exercise ball, which is becoming increasingly popular, maximises the benefits of a Pilates workout and provides the perfect base for performing the graceful, strength-building Pilates movements.• Pilates ball routines are used by Olympic coaches, ballet dancers and athletes to enhance performance. In this book, Lesley Ackland makes the techniques available to everybody whatever your level of fitness, with simple 10 minute routines that are easy to fit into your day.• The Pilates ball method is especially popular with pregnant women due to the extra support it provides, and this book contains a special section dedicated to routines for birth and pregnancy.• As well as increasing fitness, strength and stamina, the book contains exercises suitable for people dealing with back and neck problems.• Pilates balls are readily available, and this book shows you how to get the benefits of this exercise programme without the need for expensive lessons or equipment.