Today’s Workout: Pilates

On a day like today, a reliable indoor workout is a plus.

 

I’m a huge fan of Pilates and try to do it 1-2 times a week.  Pilates was one of the first fitness classes I really got into post-college.  I took a class at the local Y back in Chicago – the same instructor for about 2 years, the same group of people in the class.  We had the loud breather, the runner (guy) who wore short running shorts, etc.   And it’s when I first started to notice that yes, indeed, I do have a waist.  I always feel a little longer and leaner after a good Pilates mat class/workout.

A great at-home Pilates workout to check out is Mari Winsor: Pilates.   I used the DVD via Netflix.

There’s an express, 20 minute option and a full, 50 minute floor workout.  I use the 50 minute workout which takes me through plenty of abs, lower body toning moves, and core “scooping”.

The workout provides variations for beginners and more advanced practitioners.  It’s a great DVD if you’re new to Pilates.  I will say that it moves a bit slow if you’re more advanced.

The only equipment needed is a yoga or exercise mat.  Be sure to wear comfy clothes.

Do you have a good at-home Pilates workout to recommend?  Do you do Pilates? What’s today’s workout?

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A little of this…

…And a little of that…

Over the weekend I finished reading Om Shanti, Babe by Helen Limon.  I passed it along to my niece – she’s an avid reader and I think she’ll get a kick out of the book.  It’s is a fun trip to India, seen through the eyes of a teenager.Young readers will relate to the struggles of being a teen – relationship with parents, finding new friends, body image, trying to find a style, and trying to fit in.  Older readers will appreciate the fact that we’ve all been there before.

This is a quick-paced book that takes the reader on a journey through Kerala, India, with plenty of adventures along the way.  Whether that’s going to a small village, riding the train, or learning more about tradition, it’s all done with fun and plenty of delightful characters.

My niece gave me two book recommendations that are added to my library queue – A Mango Shaped Space and Wonder.  Mixing things up a bit and reading YA fiction is a nice change of pace.

Is anyone else enjoying seasonal temps today?  I saw lightening at about 5:30am!  And by Thursday/Friday we’ll be back to bundling up to battle the cold.

And lastly, I think I may have hit the wall when it comes to watching The Bachelor–I didn’t watch last night (though it is waiting in my Hulu queue).  But last week when I watched, all I kept thinking was, “I hope everyone gets a flu shot!”  I mean really–that’s a lot of germs being swapped!!!

What this or that do you want to share today?