It's Earth Day and many of us are going to spend at least some time this weekend renewing our commitment to caring for the earth and taking practical steps toward sustainability. So I thought now would be a good time to highlight some of our green options as Pilates consumers.
First, a shout out to Balanced Body. They are our largest Pilates company and were recognized for the second time by the 2010 Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) awards. They also run on 40 percent solar energy. And they build their wood products with sustainably harvested wood, along with other green practices (like attention to packing materials, one of my pet peeves). Balanced Body's wood Studio Reformer won best reformer in our Readers' Choice Awards this year.
Another Pilates company leading the way in the greening of the industry is Root Manufacturing. Their Pilates equipment is made with sustainably harvested woods and bamboo, and they are also committed to eco friendly business practices. I toured Root mfg. last year. See my photo journal.
I hope other Pilates companies are committed to environmentally sustainable practices as well. I'm sure their eco practices will increase and become more obvious as we ask for it. Really, there is no separation between our health and the health of our planet, so we better be discriminating shoppers
Here are some easy ideas for making your Pilates practice more green:
Buy Pilates mats made from recycled and biodegradable materials. Stott Pilates and Gaiam had eco mats in my recent mat reviews. Compare Prices on Eco Mats
Buy workout clothes made from organic and recycled fibers: Read reviews of eco workout wear from: be present, Yoga Hyde, and Beckons
Get a reusable water bottle. Compare Prices
Walk, run, or ride your bike to Pilates class. See: Cross training with Pilates.
Happy Earth Day!!!
image: Getty Images
