Latest news with #JosephPilates
CNET
09-05-2025
- Health
- CNET
We Asked Professional Instructors How to Properly Practice Pilates at Home
Pilates workouts are popular -- and for good reason. It's one of those routines that constantly surprises me. Sometimes, I'll take a class and enjoy its restorative type of movement. But then there are other days when I'll take a reformer class (a type of Pilates class where you use a reformer machine for resistance) and find it so challenging that I have to take multiple breaks. It perfectly matches its reputation of being a mix between low-impact and yet powerful. Now, coming to the topic at hand, while there are quite a few benefits of working out in a group setting, there are ways to make it as effective at home, too. The best part? You don't really need a lot of equipment or a reformer machine. The nature of this workout and its focus on breath, form and core work allows you to incorporate some of those more powerful, challenging movements at home easily. All you need is an exercise mat and you're good to go. (In fact, many studios offer "mat Pilates" classes, so it's absolutely possible to get a studio-level workout without any fancy equipment.) I tapped two Pilates instructors for their best tips on setting up a home practice to get your own Pilates routine up and running. What is Pilates? Pilates was developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates. According to the Mayo Clinic, Pilates practices are fundamentally based on low-impact movements and exercises that help strengthen the muscles while also keeping them balanced and flexible. There is a huge emphasis on alignment and posture in Pilates, which is one of the reasons why many people are drawn to the method. Dancers and athletes often use it to help balance their other training, and it's often used to help people rehab or recover from injuries. There are several types of Pilates classes and methods out there, and it can take some trial and error to figure out what type is best for you and what kind of instructor style you like. Pilates is a highly effective workout that can help you get stronger while keeping your body safe. Other benefits include better core strength, stability, flexibility, injury prevention and better posture. If your idea of a great workout class is low impact, slow, but intense -- then you need to try a reformer style class. "With the resistance-based movement, you are moving as slow as you can. As you are moving slowly, you are using your bodyweight," Triana Brown, training manager at Solidcore, told CNET. "When you're at home, it's the same idea and just as effective because you're getting the slow twitch muscle fibers because you are moving really slow and building that tension and eventually bringing it to failure. And you're still getting the same burn feeling [as a reformer studio class]." Pilates studios often have equipment, like reformers, for use in class. But you don't need much more than a mat to practice at home. Getty Images Basics for your home studio setup Although you don't need any equipment to practice Pilates at home, a few basics, like a yoga mat, will help you set up your space and have a comfortable practice. According to Heather Andersen, founder of New York Pilates and NYP Online, finding some space and ideally, a space with light, is a good foundation. "It's important to set yourself up for success when working out from home. Step one is to find a spot with plenty of space and good light. Step two is to set the vibe. Play some music and light a scented candle," Andersen said. Setting up a space you not only feel comfortable working out in but enjoy will help you feel motivated and more likely to keep your practice going. If you're unable to get to your studio Pilates workouts, Andersen suggests trying to mimic the experience by putting on your best workout outfits, something that you would wear to the studio and connect with others. "Power up by putting on an outfit you love. Connect with your community by recording and sharing your workout [on social media]. Recording your workout can help keep you motivated plus you can track your progress and assess your form. Don't forget to post and tag for some community support," Andersen said. Sliders are tools that can help you mimic the movement of a Pilates reformer at home. Amazon/Elite Sportz Equipment for a reformer-style class A Pilates reformer is a machine that looks like a massage table, but it has a carriage that slides and different springs that let you control the resistance. You can purchase them for home use, but they're expensive. Instead of buying a Pilates reformer machine, you can replicate it with smaller and less expensive tools. Sliders: Sliders are discs that you can place your hands or feet on to help them mimic a Pilates reformer class at home. Some sliders have foam cushioning that can help if you want more support and cushion when you use them. If you don't have sliders on hand, you can use other easy props that you already have at home that can work similarly. The goal with finding a tool to mimic a slider is to use something that lets your hands or feet glide smoothly across the floor when you do certain exercises, like a plank. The movement helps you create resistance with your own bodyweight, which feels similar to if you were on a reformer machine. "You need sliders [to take a class like SolidCore] but I've seen clients make anything work like I've seen clients in fuzzy socks, or clients with carpet use plastic shopping bags or towels," Brown said. She adds that finding a slider that works well on carpet can take some trial and error. You may need to swap your props or relocate to a different room that has hard surface floors. Weights: Some Pilates classes use hand-held weights to help improve resistance while you exercise. Many Pilates workouts can be modified without weights if you don't have them or don't want to use them. Typically you will use lighter weights for these classes, between 2 and 8 pounds. Brown suggests using props like wine bottles or water bottles if you don't have any weights at home. Read more: Will Ankle and Wrist Weights Make You More Fit? Experts Explain At-home Pilates workouts to try Studios like Solidcore and New York Pilates offer classes on streaming platforms (Solidcore currently uses Zoom) so you can choose from a variety of class formats. If you want a more interactive class, try Zoom classes where the trainer can see you and help you adjust your form. You can also see other people in the class, which may help give you a sense of community and accountability, which you may miss if you're used to group classes. You can find Pilates classes all over the internet, too; watch a few of my favorites below. Online Pilates workouts to try at home Solidcore mini-class: Beginner's mat workout: Reformer class: Pilates for weight loss: Read more: 5 Beginner Breathing Exercises to Help Banish Stress FAQs Can doing Pilates at home help burn fat? While it's not as effective as dedicated cardio, Pilates is one of the many low-impact workouts you can use to burn fat. This form of training helps build muscle, and the more muscle tissue you have, the more calories you burn in your day-to-day, leading to fat loss over time.
News18
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Preity Zinta Shows How She Keeps Her Spine Strong And Flexible With Pilates
Preity Zinta took to her social media to share a video from her intense workout routine. The actor was working on her spine mobility on the Pilates Cadillac bed. At 50, actor Preity Zinta is one of the fittest actors in the industry. Her workout regimen often includes yoga, gym, and Pilates. She takes to her social media to share snippets from her workouts to inspire and motivate her fans to adopt a healthy lifestyle as well. The actor recently took to her social media to share a video of herself where she was seen working on her spine mobility. Taking to her Instagram, Preity Zinta shared a video from her workout routine. The actor was seen dressed in a red jacket that she had paired with a pair of black leggings. She starts the exercise by holding the bars of the Pilates Cadillac bed and propping her feet up on the platform. Next, she stretches her spine on the Pilates Cadillac bed. In the next steps, she was seen bringing her legs up to the opposite sides to stretch her spine even further. She wrote, 'A strong spine is a base for both good health & character. Here is the hanging back extension on the Cadillac for spine mobility & strength. Joseph Pilates famously said – 'You are as young as your spine is flexible.' So whichever way possible, keep your spine flexible & keep pushing yourself the way @yasminkarachiwala pushes me." Take a look at the video here. Pilates can improve spine mobility as it engages the core muscles as well. Here are the five ways in which Pilates can help with spine mobility and strength. Builds Core Stability to Support the Spine Pilates is famously centred around strengthening the core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, lower back, and pelvic floor. A strong core acts like a supportive corset around the spine, reducing the load on the vertebrae and helping maintain proper posture throughout the day. Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion Pilates exercises often involve slow, controlled stretching combined with strengthening, which helps loosen tight muscles around the spine while keeping them strong. Moves like spinal articulation drills encourage segmental movement of the spine, improving overall flexibility and making the back more resilient to daily stresses. Poor posture – from slouching at a desk to uneven muscle development – can contribute to spinal misalignment and discomfort. Pilates emphasises proper alignment and body awareness. Exercises focus on elongating the spine and balancing muscle groups. Strengthens Deep Spinal Muscles Pilates movements target not just the surface muscles but also the deeper muscles that are critical for spinal health – like the multifidus and erector spinae. These muscles control fine motor movements of the spine and provide segmental support. A stronger deep muscle layer ensures your spine moves efficiently and stays protected against injuries. Promotes Mindful Movement and Body Awareness Pilates is based on the principle of mindful movement. This heightened awareness trains you to use your body more efficiently, protecting the spine during both exercise and everyday activities. Over time, this mindful approach drastically reduces the risk of back pain and stiffness. First Published:
Al Bawaba
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Bawaba
Alo Pilates and Matcha trend goes viral: Garo Boyadjian releases new necklace
Published April 16th, 2025 - 11:41 GMT ALBAWABA - In recent weeks, a Lebanese influencer living in Canada sparked a wave of buzz across Instagram and other social media platforms with her viral video: 'Alo, Pilates, Matcha.' Riding the momentum, Garo Boyadjian—the expertly handcrafted fine jewelry brand—released a new necklace inspired by the trend. Alo Pilates and Matcha trend Kinda (@kinda_b_canada) playfully mocked the viral trend combining Alo—the American premium athletic apparel brand—with the rising popularity of matcha, the finely ground green tea powder made from shade-grown leaves, and Pilates, the mind-body exercise method developed in the early 20th century by German trainer Joseph Pilates. In the video, Kinda repeatedly says, 'Alo, Pilates, Matcha,' referencing the viral trends many women are following these days. The video quickly went viral, and the audio was used in thousands of other videos across social media platforms including Instagram and TikTok. The trend also gained momentum after an Alo store recently opened in Beirut, prompting thousands of Lebanese women to rush to purchase apparel from the somewhat pricey brand. Notably, the trio of trends—Alo, Pilates, and Matcha—is going viral not just in Lebanon, but also across multiple countries in the Middle East, the Gulf, and even in the US and Europe. In response, Garo Boyadjian fine jewelry brand, created a necklace that showcases the three figures of a cup of matcha, a woman doing Pilates, and something resembling an Alo tennis skirt. Also Read Saudi man gifts Cartier necklace to his camel(Photos) © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
Los Angeles Times
16-04-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
The 26 best pilates studios in L.A. to stretch, strength-train and feel the burn
While interned during World War I, a German-born physical trainer named Joseph Pilates developed a precise method for rehabilitation. It began as a series of mat exercises and evolved into an exercise that made use of equipment he fashioned from bed springs and whatever materials he could find to help bedridden patients regain strength. Pilates brought this complete system, originally called 'Contrology,' to New York in the 1920s, where it gained popularity among dancers and performers. A hundred years and several wellness-industry booms later, he would hardly recognize the luxury studios his eponymous system now inhabits. Or the many equipment offshoots — Megaformers! Miniformers! Wunda Chairs! — his method has inspired. The equipment itself — sliding carriages and strange chairs surrounded by coiled springs and straps — can sometimes resemble medieval torture devices. Yet behind this machinery and the not-insignificant price one pays to use them, lies militaristic precision: a workout that strengthens the body through controlled resistance while an instructor hovers nearby, adjusting straps, correcting postures and changing resistance levels so that every movement delivers maximum benefit. Which is why, when tasked with choosing the best Pilates studios in L.A., what we found was a remarkable consistency. Though each of the sleek core-strength sanctuaries on our list infuses its own style into the original curriculum, they all managed to strengthen, increase flexibility and engage our reporters without the boredom of repetitive exercise — just as Joe Pilates promised. To ensure we were highlighting the best of the best, we looked for a few other factors when choosing our favorites. First, given that navigating a reformer is far more complicated than, say, rolling out a yoga mat, we prioritized studios that kept their class sizes small and thus, their instruction personalized. Every reformer session we attended featured instructors who hovered nearby, adjusting straps, correcting posture and offering encouraging declarations about 'majestic breathing' even as our abs screamed in protest. Second, we aimed for accessibility when it came to class variety, location and price. You'll find that every studio on our roundup regularly offers beginner classes, and many others that cater to a variety of people with different skill levels and needs. It also highlights studios across L.A. County, from Eagle Rock to Beverly Hills, San Fernando to San Pedro. (Not to mention plenty of offerings from what is clearly the Pilates-toned belly of the beast: Santa Monica.) While the $30 to 60 per-class price at these businesses is not necessarily cheap, it remains low compared with many private and semi-private studios in the city. We also made sure to prioritize studios that provide remote live or on-demand video courses, both for convenience and those who might be immuno-compromised. Third, you will only find unique small businesses who serve their local communities in our selection — no national chains. It was not uncommon that the person who founded the studio we attended was also the one telling us to tip our pelvises forward on the Cadillac. The individuality of these businesses — and the L.A. neighborhoods they reside in — is reflected in their creative interiors, From Pilates Punx's countercultural edge to Kore Pilates' soothing paper lanterns. And no matter the appealing design, each space met our standards for clean and updated facilities. For this guide, we tested every studio featured, carefully curating a mix of experiences: reformer classes for precision training, mat sessions for foundational work, heated rooms for added intensity and jumping routines for cardio benefits. We sought options suitable for older bodies and challenging experiences fit for British rock stars too. For Angelenos seeking a strengthened core, these 26 standout studios offer variations on Pilates' promise: transformation through controlled resistance, breath and the occasional whimper of exertion echoing through a room of kindred spirits. If terms like 'the Hundred,' 'Mermaid' and 'Teaser' mean nothing to you yet, don't worry — these studios will have you swapping out springs like an engineer and fluently speaking Pilat-ese in no time. — Jackie Snow
Emirates Woman
28-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
12 activities to try over the long weekend in the UAE
Golden beaches, gourmet dining, and sensational five-star resorts await. If you're spending the long weekend in the UAE and making plans to check-in to one of the alluring resorts on our doorstep, then consider one of these fabulous Eid staycation deals. From opulence in Dubai to relaxing retreats on the shores of the Northern Emirates, check out our Emirates Woman- approved guide to Eid staycations in the UAE. Visit this beauty pop-up For all the beauty aficionados, Knot Bakehouse has launched an exclusive collaboration with Kosas. To celebrate the launch of the brand's most powerful under-eye brightener yet. Just like the Kosas Revealer Extra Bright Serum-Powered Color Corrector, which is supercharged with double the caffeine, double the hyaluronic acid, and 10 times the peptides to brighten, depuff, and correct dark circles, the KNOT X Kosas Matcha Latte is the perfect fusion of function and indulgence. Together, they deliver the ultimate 'awake eyes' effect—energizing from the inside out and outside in. The collaboration will run for one week until March 31 at the Knot Bakehouse in Jumeirah, with the first 50 customers purchasing the drink on each day receiving a Kosas gift. For more information visit @knotbakehouse Indulge in a Spanish meal Head to La Niña for an unforgettable weekend dining experience that brings the bold flavours of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula to the heart of Dubai. The La Niña Experience is a curated culinary journey designed for two or more guests, featuring a refined selection of vibrant sharing starters like Lobster Tacos, Tiger Prawns, and Ceviche del Día. Choose between two standout mains: pan-seared Chilean Sea Bass or Grilled Beef Tenderloin each cooked to perfection. End on a sweet note with a duo of Chocolate Sorbet and Piña Colada dessert. Elevate the evening further with an optional wine pairing, thoughtfully matched to each course. The set is chic and contemporary setting making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends. For more information visit Rest and Rejuvenate Dubai's newest haven, Talise Spa has just opened at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. It's more than a spa—it's a journey of transformation, designed to elevate self-care to an art form. Nestled along the stunning coastline, Talise Spa seamlessly blends ancient healing rituals with cutting-edge technology to create a haven of tranquillity. Every moment within its serene walls is designed to enhance well-being, cultivate inner balance, and leave guests feeling revitalised. With world class facilities and a variety of classes under one roof – this experience is a must add to your list. For more information visit Book a Pilates session View this post on Instagram A post shared by .® (@thisisposture_) Looking to revamp your fitness routine? This once forgotten exercise trend has made a comeback since it was first invented by Joseph Pilates a century ago. With social media been the force behind its resurgence, this popular workout channels the mind-body connection to achieve precise, controlled movements that promote alignment, balance and strength. Designed to improve physical strength and coordination, form long-term habits and ensure greater core strength, these workouts allow to strengthen your muscles and feel mentally fit. Pilates can help create long, lean, and defined muscles, while also helping to reduce stress, creating awareness in the body, and improving mental clarity From Plume Studio to Matcha Club, the options in the emirate are endless. So, if you're looking to begin on your Pilates fitness journey, we're curated a guide of all the must-visit studios in Dubai. Stock up on your water Are you particular about your water? VOSS Water, the global icon of premium hydration, has launched its 250ml Still Water bottle in the UAE market, combining innovative design, sustainability, and exceptional quality. Crafted to enhance the on-the-go hydration experience, the new compact bottles are made from 100% recycled PET and are perfectly suited to complement the UAE's fast-paced, luxury-driven lifestyle. Now available at leading retail outlets, premium hospitality venues, and select online platforms throughout UAE. For more information Slurp it up View this post on Instagram A post shared by slrp. (@ If you're thinking of having a ramen-fuelled weekend, Dubai Mall just got a serious flavor upgrade! SLRP Ramen has officially landed, and you're invited to be among the first to experience it. Think bold broths, silky noodles, umami-packed bites and now Handroll bar that'll have you slurping and biting 'til the last bit. For more information visit Try a fine-dining Korean BBQ experience HANU, Sunset Hospitality's latest dining destination at St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, offers a modern take on Korean cuisine led by acclaimed Chef Kyung Soo Moon. Blending tradition with innovation, the menu features bold creations like Korean Beef Tartare, oversized Kimbap Hand Rolls, and Kimchi Arancini, alongside the interactive Meat Me at the Grill experience, where premium cuts are cooked tableside on Korean charcoal grills. A curated selection of Soju, wines, and cocktails complements the flavors, while the elegant design—featuring dark walnut wood, antique furniture, and Korean pine trees—creates a warm, inviting ambiance. Guests can dine indoors, in a private room, or on a lush terrace, making HANU a standout destination for contemporary Korean dining in Dubai. For more information visit Visit our favourite matcha spots Obsessed with matcha? Us too. As the health benefits outweigh everything, let us look at some of the best Dubai Matcha cafés to visit. Known for its host of health benefits, matcha is best for both its energising and detoxifying properties. This highly sought-after drink is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which help fight inflammation and support heart health. It provides a steady energy boost without the jitters of coffee, thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. Matcha also supports metabolism, aiding in weight management, and may enhance brain function, improving memory and concentration. From AVANTCHA Tea Bar to The Matcha Tokyo, Dubai's cafés use the finest ceremonial grade matcha powders – that will give you the reset you need. So, if you're looking to skip coffees and adapt to a natural source of caffeine, Dubai offers an array of chlorophyll-infused beverages that we simply can't resist. So, just scroll through our Emirates Woman guide for inspiration. Capture the best memories For a special way to capture those moments during the Eid al-Fitr holidays, Fujifilm Instax have you covered. With instant cameras, snapping moments and creating aesthetic, tangible memories is easy, With a variety of cameras for everyone's preference and style of photography, you can choose from the Instax Pal, which is designed for being on the go. It's priced at Dhs299. The Instax Wide 400 is all about capturing all the big 'wow'moments with double- card-sized wide films and is priced at Dhs599. The Instax mini Evo is the ultimate hybrid camera with a mini-format film for a retro look for Dhs899. So, pick your favourite Instax camera for your Eid holiday adventures, and say goodbye to waiting and hello to instant joy – every shot is a keepsake you can hold onto forever! For more information visit Get that adrenaline rush Situated in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp by RAK Leisure, gives visitors a change to experience what it's like to experience the wild with a team of experts. During our own journey, we tried out the basic survival course, which takes place for four hours with specialised instructors who gave us a taste of what it's like to experience the desert with a handful of limited resources. BGEC presents discounted rates for weekday and weekend stays, both featuring three outdoor activities like high rope courses, abseiling, rock climbing, hiking, archery, and air rifle shooting. The prices are for Dhs400 from Monday to Thursday and Dhs650, Friday to Sunday until March 30, 2025. For more information go to Swim under the stars Home to the UAE's longest-suspended infinity pool, Tapasake invites guests to enjoy Night Swim every Friday. After a successful run, Swim Under the Stars is back, offering a relaxing evening by the poolside with stunning views of the Dubai skyline. Located 100 meters above the city, Tapasake Dubai offers stunning views and a culinary Japanese journey with a Mediterranean influence. The à la carte menu features signature dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and live DJ music, providing an exceptional dining experience. It takes place every Friday from 7:30pm to 11pm and is priced at Dhs250 per person with Dhs200 redeemable on F&B. For more information vist – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ galawesh
