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The Pilates Body: The Ultimate At-Home Guide to Strengthening, Lengthening, and Toning Your Body - Without Machines (平装)
by Brooke Siler
| Category:
Health & Fitness |
| Market price: ¥ 208.00
MSL price:
¥ 178.00
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| Stock:
In Stock |
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MSL rating:
 Good for Gifts |
| MSL Pointer Review:
Easy to understand and follow, and immensely thorough, this is one of the best Pilates books out there. |
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AllReviews |
1 2   | Total 2 pages 14 items |
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Amber Valletta (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
Brooke is extremely knowledgeable about using Pilates as a tool to increase muscle strength and improve life energy and vitality. I love Brooke! |
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Trudi Tapscott (Model Editor, Vogue magazine) (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
All trainers feel committed to their clients. However, few give the dedication of a coach. Brooke is a trainer who is a coach. She pushes me to realize my potential and believes in my ability more than I do. |
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Joseph H. Pilates (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
In ten sessions you will feel the difference, in twenty you will see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a whole new body. |
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Mary Rhoad (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
It is difficult to describe the effort spent in going through countless books on this distinctive subject matter before deciding on Brooke Siler's book. Brooke's book is, by far, the most clear, the most concise, and the most illuminating. The balance between the technical - and what I inferred as the philosophical subject matter - was really brilliant! As a long-time certified Pilates practitioner, personal trainer, and Pilates entrepreneur I only hope I can capture and convey the intangible qualities of Pilates, in the way Brooke does in this book. Put simply, with its' combination of stunning photographs, its' clever illustrations, and its' detailed and stylish cueing techniques, this book is outstanding and truly celebrates the integrity within the Pilates method of movement. |
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Robert Kellum (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
When I was trying to decide which ONE book to buy for learning the Pilates matwork, it was quite overwhelming. There are scads of books out there on the subject - I think I read the Amazon reviews on over 100 books with 'Pilates' in the title. Some were explanations of how to do the original matwork, like this book, and some were spin-offs on Pilates - same name, different program. It seemed that the top two contenders in popularity were this book and the one by Alycea Ungaro, called 'Pilates: Body in Motion'. I bought that one first, and then decided to buy this one to compare. This is my take on it: Ungaro's book 'Pilates: Body in Motion' has much more detailed photographs of the exercises, complete explanations to go with each step-by-step photo, a very full explanation of how-to, what to watch out for, tips, pointers, etc. In contrast, The Pilates Body by Brooke Siler has fewer pictures to guide you through the exercises. There is a full written explanation of how to do each exercise, with basically the same information as the other book, although sometimes she gives instructions that are not found in Ungaro's book (also, Ungaro sometimes gives tips that are not in Siler's book). The advantage in this book, and the reason I recommend buying it ALSO, is that it has more thorough coverage of advanced exercises - many are included here that are not in Ungaro's book. I would recommend that Ungaro's book be used for initial learning, and this book should be added for more explanation on how to do the exercises, plus for additional exercises in the advanced levels. Another thing I like about this book is that all the exercises are in the sequence of the advanced program, so you can just flip through the book in order, and leave out the exercises that are too advanced for you, where-as in the other book, the beginner exercises go together, then a useful sequential beginner routine is shown. After that, the intermediate exercises are shown grouped together, and then the sequential intermediate routine is shown, but if you want to refer to any of the detailed teaching pages of the beginner exercises that are also part of the intermediate routine (which builds on and incorporates the beginner routine), you have to flip back to the beginner section, and the same is true when you get to the advanced exercises. In other words, in Ungaro's book, the exercises are grouped by level, whereas in Siler's book, the exercises for the complete advanced routine are sequential, but labeled as beginner, intermediate or advanced, because this is a program that builds on the previous levels. This book can be obtained for a good price 'used' in Amazon, which is how I purchased it. I would recommend both of these excellent books for a more complete understanding of how to do with exercises. |
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A Canadian reader (MSL quote), Canada
<2007-01-04 00:00>
This book is fabulous. (well, perhaps it won't change your body ... only you will... but it will help!) Brooke includes alot of interesting helpful info about the history of Pilates and its techniques. I like the fact that she emphasizes visual imagery as being part of Pilates. The book is definitely one you can grow with as the exercises range from beginner to intermediate to advanced. She also includes "Advanced Extra" exercises, toning exercises, with and without weights and a Cool down. Each two pages are devoted to one exercise so you can easily place the book open next to your mat and refer to it as you exercise.
What does Pilates do for your body? It makes you feel wonderful to start. it works your lower abs like nothing you've ever tried before. I've worked out for years, doing hanging leg raises and reverse crunches, ball work but Pilates seems to work your abs the best. When you have the correct form, you seem to work your muscles deep within your body; rather than just building the exterior ab muscles. Similarly, the side leg exercises - they seem pretty basic but if you are doing them correctly, you are working your "powerhouse", your arms and your legs. All this week, I've felt like I've been at the gym doing heavy weight work on my legs but actually, all for my legs, all I've done is Pilates! I've lost 3lbs in the last month but people think I've lost "a lot" of weight. Some people think this is a waste of time (if you're not sweating like crazy, you're not working out). But Pilates has so many benefits - it will actually increase your athletic performance! Pilates also improves your flexibility and this flexibility is helping me with my other activities like kickboxing and running. Another thing I like about this book and Pilates is you are only required to do a few reps of each exercise so it's easy to motivate yourself. Finally, this book is just so easy to use and portable - you only really need it, a mat, a bit of space. And, you can throw in your favorite CD to make things more fun! This book by Brooke Siler is graphically attractive and visually easy to use (as compared to some other Pilates books). Try it out! |
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Beth Cholette (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
Prior to receiving this book as a gift, I had never done Pilates, but I had read about the method and was intrigued by it. Author Brooke Siler writes in a straightforward manner; she provides important and helpful information without overdoing it. She begins with a brief discussion of the origins of the Pilates method as a means to explain the value of this technique; she then goes on to describe the most important components of the Pilates philosophy and reviews in practical terms how these apply to the exercises. For example, she thoroughly explains the concept of the "powerhouse," the band of muscles which form a belt around the abdomen and back and which serve as the foundation for Pilates practice.
With respect to the exercises themselves, Siler is detailed and meticulous. She carefully describes each exercise using easy-to-understand metaphors (e.g. imagining your midsection is sewn to the ground or your arms are held down with weights) exceptional graphics, and clear photographic illustrations of student models. With respect to the three models, each one is specifically designated to portray either the beginner, intermediate, or advanced moves, which helps make the exercise levels extremely easy to follow. Furthermore, Siler provides outstanding information on how Pilates students can build their routine from the beginning to more advanced levels of practice. As mentioned, each exercise is clearly marked for the appropriate level, and Siler explains how to start with a modified beginner series of moves and then to add new exercises gradually as appropriate. At the end of the book, Siler includes some additional moves that are not part of the traditional Pilates matwork series, including the standing arm series.
The book includes photographs of Joseph Pilates, inventor and founder of the Pilates method, at various ages to further highlight the benefit of this exercise technique. It is also important to note that Siler was trained by Romana Kryzanowska, who was chosen by Joseph Pilates and his wife to be their successor; this means that Siler's book follows the authentic exercises and sequencing patterns taught by Pilates himself many years ago. As an instructor, Siler has a very down-to-earth, non-intimidating manner; she is warm, supportive, encouraging, and enthusiastic, qualities which shine through the pages of her book.
Now that I'm more experienced with the Pilates method via classes and videos, I've come to appreciate this book even more, as I have found that it gave me a solid foundation in the Pilates technique-when I tried classes and videos for the first time, I found that I already knew exactly how to perform each exercise correctly. The book serves as an excellent adjunct to video workouts, as no where else will you find such thorough and detailed information on form as Siler provides here, and I still return to the book frequently for reminders and tips. Highly recommended for both beginning and more experienced Pilates practitioners! |
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Diana Behren (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
Everyone has heard the old adage, "If you don't use it, you lose it." Well, this book helps you use your body in ways that will help keep it spry and supple as your age advances with absolutely none of the jolt of high impact exercise.
Firstly, I would recommend at least five sessions with a registered Pilates instructor. Although it is possible to understand the body alignment necessary to perform these exercises optimally by reading the 'Key Elements to Mastering the Mat' chapter of the book, the process is expedited by someone who can 'show' as well as 'tell'. If instruction is impossible, I would recommend Jennifer Kries instructional tape The Method: Precision Toning; actually seeing the exercises in sequence with Ms. Kries gentle encouragement helps to assimilate the photos in the book into the reality of the motion. Note: the tape does not cover all the positions, but provides enough for a worthy introduction.
The book helps the exerciser to understand just what each movement is meant to feel like. It uses photographs that simulate each progression of movement and written copy that details the procedure step-by-step. In addition to this, tips regarding how best to engage and hence strengthen the muscles in your powerhouse (abdominals, hips, lower back and buttocks)are provided in bullet fashion. Most importantly, there are little sketches which help you to visualize the feeling the exercise is meant to arouse within the body. All exercises are presented in sequence so that they flow from one to another; each exercise is labeled 'beginner', 'intermediate' or 'advanced' and features a corresponding model which helps you to delineate based on current level. Sides series leg exercises follow the basic mat technique and extras using light weights complete the program. The author, Brooke Siler, cleverly includes a state-by-state list of registered Pilates instructors so that you can learn the basics from a pro.
I have used this book for over two years; I have found that the 15 to 30 to 45 minutes I spend on performing these exercises each morning - the time differences reflect whether I do side series or weights - has enabled me to participate in more rigorous athletic activities without so much as blinking an eye. Recently I did a mountain bike ride - 22 miles - an activity I have not participated in for quite a while - and felt absolutely no pain the next morning. You will find you use the techniques used to engage the powerhouse all the time, even when just walking down the block. The Pilates breathing becomes second nature as does all movement from the core. I will warn you that Pilates is not easy. If you have not participated in some form of body toning for a while, you will definitely feel pain in your abdominals even if you perform just the very basic routine. Don't let this discourage you - I have a C-section pouch that certainly does not help to ease any of the motions - the pain quickly passes and the developing strength provides a good base for all your other activities. Each movement incorporates toning with stretching - you will actually feel your muscles stretching from the powerhouse and reaching out in ways that traditional stretching never quite realizes. After performing just the basics for a week, you will immediately understand why professional dancers have used these techniques for over 50 years and why you should, too.
Siler's book is the best book on the subject, one that you will consult regularly as you make Pilates one of your exercise mainstays. Highly recommended. |
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A German reader (MSL quote), Germany
<2007-01-04 00:00>
I am male and have ten month of Pilates experience in a local sports club. I do know a total of nearly ten different trainers now, but intensely only two to three.
I read this book during an involuntary break of my exercises due to a flue. Reading helps the mind part of the exercises a lot. I did learn quite a bit in the details of the descriptions of various exercises. I already read this book half a year ago (at that time I was totally addicted to Pilates) and still was surprised about the totally "new" gems in the book.
The main part of the book is the detailed description of a long sequence of exercises on the mat. It is illustrated with excellent photos. All the goals are stated (the why of this particular exercise) and also important a short list of no-no's.
It takes considerably longer to read through the description of a single exercise than actually doing it even ten times. A lot of different things have to be coordinated and watched out for. The list is by far not complete, but an extremely good start and refresher. Obviously mastering an exercise takes a long time. But good results are fast. The complexity keeps your cerebellum active and one does not get bored too quickly.
The claim of getting a new body within a few dozen hours of exercise is a big exaggeration. But I certainly feel different and most importantly better due to Pilates.
The book is clearly worth owning. If you do not have the luck of having trainers you should consider of getting one or more books by other authors to complete your vision. |
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An American reader (MSL quote), USA
<2007-01-04 00:00>
What makes Ms. Siler's approach to Pilates appealing to me is the fact that it's set up as a routine to which I can add exercises as I wish. I came to Pilates with poor abdominal strength and flexibility, so it's nice to be able to go at my own pace. In comparison to the method used by my instructor, I find that Ms. Siler's order of introducing exercises makes more sense to my body. I also find her arm series and cool down exercises a very welcome addition to the overall Pilates program. In addition, the only equipment you need for her matwork series is a mat (or a thick blanket).
While I give Ms. Siler's Pilates method 5 stars, I give her book 4 stars. Overall, the exercises are well described and adequately photographed, with helpful visualization suggestions. However, the experience of seeing Pilates exercises demonstrated and explained in slightly different words has proved immensely helpful in ensuring that I have the correct posture, breathe correctly, and focus on stabilizing the non-moving body parts, as these concepts are not explained as well as they could be in The Pilates Body. In addition, I add warm up stretches from my class and / or do yoga beforehand to limber up, although I suppose warm ups are not included because the routine is meant to be done in about 20 minutes.
I would definitely recommend this book to someone looking to get into Pilates, although I would suggest working with an instructor or at least someone more experienced in Pilates to prevent injuries. While you may not get an entirely new body in 30 sessions, as Joseph Pilates claimed, you will see results quickly. With Ms. Siler's method in particular, you'll enjoy working towards those results because she includes enough challenges and variety to encourage you to work towards mastering all of the exercises. |
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1 2 | Total 2 pages 14 items |
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