Review: Pilates (Second Edition) by Rael Isacowitz

Synopsis: The most acclaimed, comprehensive guide on Pilates is now updated, expanded, and better than ever! In this second edition, world-renowned Pilates expert Rael Isacowitz shows you the same repertoire that he has used to train multiple Olympians as well as an elite group of professional instructors who work with celebrities and athletes around the world. Starting with the foundation for all the exercises, Pilates presents an in-depth treatment of mat work, including photos, imagery cues, and detailed instruction on breathing to help you perform the movements correctly. The mat work in this edition is organized according to a mat-specific version of the comprehensive BASI Block System used for the apparatus work. This arrangement enhances understanding of the expansive repertoire and provides the tools for creating personalized mat routines. A unique set of challenging exercise sequences is offered to facilitate performing the movements in one continuous, flowing motion. After the mat work, where most books stop entirely, Pilates goes on to apply the same depth of instruction and photos to the full range of Pilates apparatus:

• Reformer
• Cadillac
• Wunda chair
• Step and ladder barrels
• Ped-a-pul
• Arm chair
• Magic circle

The complete repertoire includes a purposeful grouping of exercises into blocks that work all regions of the body and progress from the fundamental level through the intermediate and advanced levels to challenge you at all stages of Pilates development. With more than 200 exercises and more than 50 variations, Pilates is the most comprehensive guide available on the method. As a contemporary approach to the work of Joseph Pilates, this is the one book you need in order to improve your balance, concentration, coordination, posture, muscle tone, core strength, and flexibility—in short, your well-being. (from the online description)

Review: This book is FULL of useful information about Pilates. From the history to carefully described work-outs, to helpful overall hints to detailed analysis of issues, this book has EVERYTHING! Other than one or two Pilates classes, I've never done much. But this book gave me the confidence to start at home routines with the mats - and even look at getting a reformer or a cadillac. The book includes a marvelous index, easy-to-follow pictures and guides and lots of information to help the novice or veteran. I highly recommend this book for the Pilates instructor or someone looking for a comprehensive guide to this marvelous exercise form. 

Bookmarks: 8 of 10

Awards: None

ISBN: 978-1-4504-3416-4

Date Finished: 5-11-2014

Pages: 371