Resolve: to come to a definite or earnest decision about; determine to do something
I like the above definition of resolve from dictionary.com. It is powerful, and it says nothing about the first of the year. Not that New Year isn't a good time to make a resolution, it is, but new resolutions can be made anytime. So, January or June, if you are ready to refresh your commitment to your health goals, get ideas from these top Pilates resolution picks for 2010.
1. Commit to Regular Pilates
You've heard it before, but it's worth repeating: To get real benefit out of an exercise program you have to do it regularly. Joseph Pilates put it this way: "If you will faithfully perform your contrology [Pilates] exercises regularly only four times a week for just three months,..., you will find your body development approaching the ideal, accompanied by renewed mental vigor and spiritual enhancement."
Inspired? Decide right now to make Pilates a consistent part of your life. Here are some links to get you started:
30 Day Pilates Beginner Quick Start ProgramInfo for the Pilates Beginner
Free Exercise Instructions -- beg through adv.
How to Find a Pilates Class
2. Get the Equipment You Need
Pilates isn't very complicated as far as gear goes. All you really need for Pilates is an exercise mat, clothing that lets you move, and good instruction. Beyond that, equipment can enhance a workout and add variety to your routine. The key is to identify what you need and get it. Here are some links to help you make good choices:
Pilates Equipment Info and Reviews: Here you will find information and reviews about pilates equipment, DVDs, books, clothing and more.A Pilates Equipment Buyer's Guide : This buyers' guide is designed to help you sort through the Pilates equipment and gear choices that are available.
...and for the instruction that makes it all work:
Top Ways to Learn Pilates
All About Pilates Classes
Pilates DVD Reviews
3. Take Your Pilates to the Next Level
If you are a beginner, then all you have to do is get started, but if you have been doing Pilates for a while, you need to keep your workouts challenging and interesting. Take a moment to think about what you have yet to explore in Pilates and resolve to make it happen. It may be a simple as taking a new kind of class or getting a different piece of equipment to workout with. Here are links to more ideas for revving up you Pilates experience:
Improve Your Pilates Exercise Technique Ways to Maximize Pilates ClassesDaily Pilates?
Design your Workout for Weight Loss
Review the Pilates Principles
4. Get Certified to Teach Pilates
Even if getting certified has been just a little idea in the back of your mind, it is worth taking a look at. After all, there is no better way to learn something than to teach it. Pilates mat instructor certification is the place to start and that is really not a huge commitment of time or money. But you will learn a lot, and depending on your experience you may be ready to teach right away.
A comprehensive exercise and equipment certification is a very big commitment, but a wonderful way to go deep into Pilates and to launch a new career. Pilates popularity is still growing and there are job opportunities for Pilates instructors.
5. Create Your Fitness Community
One of the very best ways to stay on track with your fitness goals is to surround yourself with the support of a like-minded community. These free online resources will keep you motivated:
Join the Pilates Forum: Find interesting Pilates discussions and meet other Pilates enthusiasts in the Pilates Forum. We have everyone from beginners through professionals offering questions and giving advice.Get the About.com Free Pilates Newsletter: Have the Exercise of the Week, along with other great Pilates info., sent directly to you each week.
Use CalorieCount.com: Calorie Count Plus has a friendly online community of people sharing their experience and support.
