 We
all see the pictures of slim, sleek and tall model - shaped people
practicing Pilates in gorgeous studios when we look at Pilates
books and surf the Web. We sigh and wish we could be like them.
Some people even take up Pilates in the hope that maybe, just maybe
if they practise religiously and never touch chocolate again, ever,
(Yeah,right!), they could look like that too....
Sorry to rain on your parade, but in all probability it ain't
gonna happen for you. The tall willowy look is more to do with
your genetics than any exercise system you try.
Sure, you can lose the body fat and build some muscle, you can
look pretty damn good but unless the Gods have gifted you with
willowy genes you won't look...well...willowy.
I say, why would you want to? Remember, most models probably live
on a lettuce leaf and 100 cigs a day and besides, for the sake
of your own health and well being it is much better if you focus
your efforts on just getting fit, increasing your endurance and
correcting any bad postural habits you may have developed.
Pilates changes your body. It can make it fitter, stronger and
much better looking.
It can give your muscles a more sleek, compact and less bulky appearance.
You develop in your abdomen a firm and strong support for your
new supple and graceful body.
The fantastic thing about Pilates is the way that, over a period
of time, you can re-build your body from the inside out. You wouldn’t
build your house on sand, would you? Sand is an unstable surface
that is unable to support anything built on it. Practicing Pilates
regularly is like replacing the sand with concrete. When we have
a stable surface to build on, we can build something that is strong
and able to withstand the daily rigors of life without injury.
We are also much less likely to suffer from many of the problems
old age can bring, such as arthritis and osteoporosis.
So next time you wish to look like a willowy model, smile to yourself,
have a piece of chocolate (just one!) and just strive to keep your
body fit and well. Oh and don't forget the Pilates! |
