The publisher, BainBridgeBooks , September
3, 1998
The Definitive Pilates
Written by the world's two foremost authorities on Joseph H. Pilates
(Pil-lah-teez) and his unique method of body conditioning, here
is the definitive introduction to the latest rage in physical
fitness for men and women of all ages. Used by world class athletes
and performers for the past 50 years, this mind-body program is
now accessible to everyone.
Concentrating on the two muscular systems
of the body, the Pilates Method provides gentle, non-impact exercises
that build the abdomen muscles to stabilize the spine, protect
the lower back, and strengthen the buttocks. The system lengthens
and strengthens the body, relieves stress, and improves posture.
The Pilates Method corrects the body's coordination, balance and
alignment. It also helps heal damaged tissue. It stimulates the
circulatory system and oxygenates the blood to release endorphins.
It also controls weight disorders and helps prevent brittle bones
from developing. The system is excellent for senior citizens and
women in pre- and post-natal care.
Pilates is used by actors, dancers
and sports people, such as the San Francisco 49ers, the New York,
Pennsylvania and Atlanta ballet companies, Patrick Swayze, Martha
Graham, Gregory Peck, Glenn Close, Madonna, Sigourney Weaver,
Pat Cash, Kristi Yamaguchi, Terrence Stamp, Leonardo DiCaprio,
and many more.
This book is written by the founder
of the worldwide chain of Pilates Studios, Sean P. Gallagher,
who is a physical therapist working regularly for the Pennsylvania
Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Sesame Street Live, and Six Flags Amusement
Park. He has also been a therapist for many Broadway shows, including
The King and I, The Lion King, Titanic, Chicago, Cats, Beauty
and the Beast and Miss Saigon. Romana Kryzanowska is the only
living disciple of Joseph H. Pilates and is the official senior
instructor of his method throughout the world. Carrying on the
work of the Pilates Methods was entrusted to her by Joseph H.
Pilates and his wife.
Included in this work are the core
exercises that promise to improve greatly the physical and mental
condition of all those carry out these simple, low-stress exercises.
There are more than 60 exercises illustrated in the book, covering
all the Pilates equipment, with some 250 photographs for simple
explanation of each step in every exercise.
