The Complete Guide to Joseph H. Pilates' Techniques of Physical Conditioning (Paperback)

~ (Author), (Foreword) "Have you ever wished for more mental and physical stamina to aid you in playing longer with the children of grandchildren, completing the daily household..." (more)
Key Phrases: flatten the rib cage, flatten the ribs, press through the heels, Double Leg Stretch, Single Leg Stretch, Basic Exercise (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Created by Joseph Pilates almost 80 years ago, this popular exercise regimen combines elements of yoga and bodywork to strengthen the core muscles of the abdomen while increasing flexibility in the legs, arms, and smaller muscle groups. Long embraced by dancers, Pilates has been adopted by professional athletes. This book covers Joseph Pilates's complete floor program. Introductory chapters outline the history and philosophy of Pilates, including the eight principles of the method. The book guides readers through basic, intermediate, and advanced routines, with detailed descriptions of each exercise and nearly 200 step-by-step photographs. A special chapter lists exercises for alleviating specific conditions such as back, ankle, and shoulder pain. Worksheets allow readers to monitor their progress.

Product Details

• Paperback: 180 pages
• Publisher: Hunter House (CA) (July 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0897932854
• ISBN-13: 978-0897932851
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 8.5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (43 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #301,612 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

110 of 110 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Menezes offers clear view of Pilates method, November 22, 2000

By	Galpin, Shannon (Deutschland) - See all my reviews

As a Pilates instructor I found this to be a very thorough and informative book. I have recommended this book to many of my clients for home study and to aid in their repatterning process. This is a book that has kept the original matwork as its backbone and enhanced it with current physiotherapy ideas and neutral body placement. I felt the first section of the book was clear, concise, and really guided the student through the journey of body awareness. The second section which covers the exercises themselves was uniquely thought out. The pictures are excellent and the cues and corrections are structured in such a way as to aid, rather than distract the learner. I have read many of the books currently on the market and I feel that this is one of the best for students of the Pilates method - from beginner to advanced.

51 of 51 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellant book for health, wellness, and rehabilitation, November 6, 2000

By	Ellen Keyt (Detroit, MI) - See all my reviews

I bought this book because I also have a rugby-related back injury (which is what brought Mr. Menezes to Pilates). As a complete novice to Pilates, I found the extensive descriptions and photographs very helpful. Pilates is a very complex and versatile set of exercises, combined in different ways for those recovering from injuries or in good health. Mr. Menezes first explains the philosophy behind Pilates (with illustrations) and then moves on to detail an enormous variety of mat excercises. He includes recommended work-outs, from basic to very advanced, along with an entire chapter on how to tailor work-outs to recover from specific injuries or weaknesses. All excercises can be done at home without equipment. Each description includes what to focus on and what to watch out for - this allows you to self-correct and maximize the benefit from each exercise. After just a few work-outs, I am already experiencing less pain and more mobility. I also feel much stronger. I am extremely excited about Pilates and look forward to using this book for years.

22 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars It is complete!, October 10, 2000

By A Customer

This is an excellent reference to the matwork exercises. Each exercise is explained in detail, with clear illustrations and breathing instructions. Also, Chapter 6 has great recommendations of exercises for specific problems, ie. back pain, weak knees etc. Keep in mind it is best to learn from a trainer, this book will not tell you if you are doing it wrong!!