All About Pilates

If you keep hearing about Pilates, you're going to vomit. It might feel that way, specially with all the hype stirred up by bandwagon types like Madonna, but Pilates is actually an incredible way to exercise. An exercise invented by gymnast Joseph Pilates, it was originally a form of therapy for injured dancers. Usually, it involves being on a mat and doing a series of calisthenics exercises not unlike yoga. In these moves, you work your abs, lower back, thighs, and buttocks. The purpose isn't only on fitness; since it was invented for dancers, Pilates, like Rolfing or the Alexander Technique, teaches proper alignment and correct form, and helps you become more coordinated and graceful. It's great for endurance and flexibility, but just be ready to dish out the big bucks if you take a class!