A lot of people hate going to the gym because they feel they can never get a good cardio workout. The treadmill, stationary bikes or elliptical intimidate them. Or maybe it’s the intense weight lifters and long-distance runners that intimidate them… Regardless, they dread the typical gym workout.

If you are one of these people, I have good news! There is another way to get a workout in without having to go to a gym! … Pilates Classes!

Pilates may be slower paced than a spinning class, but it’s an intense workout that will give you the tone, defined results you’re looking for this summer. Pilates burns calories while increasing your stability, balance and endurance.

In 1980, Philip Friedman and Gail Eisen wrote The Pilates Method Of Physical and Mental Conditioning.  They created six principles that have been widely adopted across the world. Here are the original principles that you can perfect in a pilates class:

1. Concentration: When one completely focuses on the movements they’re doing, they’ll get the maximum value from the exercises.
2. Control: Every muscle is under control at all times.
3. Centering: Focuses on the “powerhouse” of the body- the abdomen. This is where all other movements start.
4. Flow: Aims for movements that are fluid-like and graceful.
5. Precision: there is one precise and perfect movement, rather many halfhearted ones.
6. Breathing: most Pilates movements coordinate with the breath, and using the breath properly.

“I’m a Pilates person,” says Jennifer Aniston. Other Pilates’ lovers include Jamie Lee Curtis, Gweneth Paltrow and Madonna.

“Pilates is the only exercise program that has changed my body, and made me feel great,” said 51-year-old Jamie Lee Curtis, in an interview last year.
And Pilates doesn’t just have to be a female thing. Hugh Grant and Tim McGraw along with many other male celebs also use Pilates as a source of staying in top shape.

The best of Pittsburgh hair salon, Verve 360 offers classes that will fit your level of difficulty, as well as time schedule and you can get your hair fixed up on the way out!  Interested in learning more about Pilates? Come to a class! Check out the class schedule here. If you have any questions call 412-471-1575.

By Nicole Paladin