At Home Plan Update: January

I'll be honest, January has not been kind to me and my living schedule has been thrown all over the place. From having free time to working double time for two weeks and even getting sick along the way my body and mind are ready for a vacation down south. My computer also managed to die forcing me to quickly back files up and purchase a new laptop a few months earlier than expected. I thank Pilates for keeping me sane through this month which is far too lengthy having five weeks even though it has the same amount of days as all the other months.

I will admit that my pants are feeling looser (especially in the thigh and hip area of my size 6 jeans) and I peaked at the scale to see to my amazement it was below 140 (yes!). I'd like to see more development in my core, however my obliques are getting stronger. Something is working with these moves getting easier. Stay tuned for more updates on my progress of the New Year's program!

Tall Challenge: Ped-a-Pole

Imagine a skinny piece of equipment not found in many studios whose regular use of a few basic exercises is as effective as a full hour in Pilates terms. Want to look amazing in a strapless dress? Want to have a tall, lean figure? Look no further than the Ped-a-pull (also called Ped-o-Pul or Pedi-Pole depending on manufactuer).

Anyone can use this simplistic piece to focus on stability of their powerhouse muscles. The origional purpose of the Ped-a-pull was to increase lung capacity for opera singers. Today beginners and even pregnant women can experience the benefits. General exercises include standing with your whole spine from heels to crown of the head against a metal pole while holding arm springs. You than press the springs down, to the sides, or in circles. A more advanced version may include adding in leg work by lifting on your toes or squats.

So give the Ped-a-pole a try in your next private and see the amazing results it has to offer!