Pilates...

[fajrdrako]

So I did a test: The Exercise Personality Test. And it told me to do Pilates.

Cool. I have a Pilates DVD - well, actually, a Yogilates DVD, and a book to go with it - and I've been wanting to do it. But didn't I click the ticky-box that said I wanted something relaxing, not challenging? Hmm? [Glares at the test.] Does anyone here know anything at all about Pilates? Have you done it? Liked it?

Maybe I'll try some Pilates tonight after Tai Chi. If I have any energy left at all.

Your result for The Exercise Personality Test...

Pilates

12% Patience, 8% Experience and 18% Independence!

You are no stranger to exercise and fitness, and a challenging type of workout is the best option for someone at your level. You're the independent sort, as well - you don't need any other person to motivate you to - you've got more than plenty of determination all on your own. You're also a calm, patient person, which means that you probably relish quiet times where you can relax and reflect. All of these traits suggest that Pilates is an excellent workout option for you.

Pilates is similar to yoga, though it does not have the spiritual association and there is more focus on developing/strenghtening the core. However, like yoga, the pilates method stresses using the mind to control the muscles, awareness of breath and alignment of the spine. One of the main aims of the pilates method is to strengthen the deep torso muscles. Pilates can be done in a variety of places, from classes at a gym, to a pilates machine, to your own bedroom floor.

Other types of exercise you might enjoy would include ballet and yoga.

Take The Exercise Personality Test at HelloQuizzy

Comments

[crabby-lioness.livejournal.com]

Me. Pilates is back and leg strengthening exercises. Basically you lie on your back and wave your legs in the air a few times in one pattern, then switch. It works really well for strengthening your back. I don't know about relaxing, but it is low-stress. I use it with yoga for flexibility and belly-dancing for cardio.

[fajrdrako.livejournal.com]

Sounds perfect for me. Yes, I'm going to try this as soon as possible - but not tonight - a.s.a.p., maybe tomorrow.

[kathyh]

I do Pilates and it suits me nicely as it doesn't (or at least in my class it doesn't) involve violent exercise but stretches, controlled movement, core strengthening and some relaxation elements. It's particularly good for improving your posture. I really enjoy it though I'm very bad at practising.

[fajrdrako.livejournal.com]

Thanks - that's a useful description. It sounds like what I need.

[elebridith]

I do Pilates. I like it a lot - strenghtens muscles in back, legs, arms, belly (urrrgh...*g*) in a "soft" way - small movements on repeat. Sounds and seems quite easy, but it isn't always - ask my belly muscles... *g* Oh, and combined with breathing excercises and relaxing. The good thing is - if you can't do a specific exercise because e.g. your back muscles are too weak at that point, the teacher should be able to give you a slightly altered version that you do until you're able to do the original.
Our course has people from age 20 to 60, trained ballet dancers and housewives, and it's really good. Can recommend!

[fajrdrako.livejournal.com]

Sounds and seems quite easy, but it isn't always - ask my belly muscles... *g*

Yeah. My fitness trainer once let me borrow her Pilates DVD and I only used it for about half an hour and I found it excruciatingly difficult and my tummy muscles hurt for a day. On the other hand, I know that if I practised it wouldn't be so bad. So... one of these days. Maybe tomorrow. I like the idea of it.

Thanks for the recommendation!