Pilates, the current mantra in mind-body workouts, is all about a state of mind, a state of fitness. It is an exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph H. Pilates; a German-born student of yoga, zen meditation and rigorous exercise regimens of ancient Greeks and Romans. His exercise system emphasized the development of the body's core (the spine, abdominals, hips and lower back). Asked what Pilates is, Joe liked to say, "if you have three words to describe my method, they are: STRENGTH and STRETCH with CONTROL."

   It is a comprehensive full body workout, but is often misidentified as an exercise form for women. Many famous male professional athletes have added Pilates to their training programs, in order to enhance their strength, coordination and flexibility by developing their core muscle areas.

The Zone and Pilates

   The Zone was the first studio in South India to introduce a Pilates program, on the Reformer machines, in 2006. The program has sessions that are conducted only by appointment and are limited to a maximum of four individuals in a session. Personal sessions with individuals are also conducted. The program is highly popular with men and women of varied backgrounds, fitness levels and specific needs. Reasons for its success range from the 'feel-good' factor, to improvements in energy, to relief from back and neck pain, to greater strength and flexibility, to a sculpted toned look.

 1  2  3