Exercise is the most effective way people can stay in shape. However, the way you exercise plays a big role in how your body develops. There are many techniques and programs that will give you noticeable results, such as pilates, yoga, Zumba or kickboxing.
Pilates was developed by Joseph H. Pilates in the 1920s. Formally called The Pilates Method, the main goal is to condition the body through your “powerhouse,” or core. The core is referred to as the abdomen, lower back and buttocks. The theory is that if you can successfully strengthen these areas, the rest of your body will be able to move freely.
Pilates creates muscle strength without the bulk, so it is great for women who prefer a learner body.
Since pilates is so versatile, it can be modified to be easier or harder, depending on one’s strength and flexibility.
Yoga is similar to pilates in that it strengthens your body. However, it is a spiritual experience as well as a physical one. Certain breathing techniques and meditation are always used when practicing yoga. The goal of yoga is to unite the mind, body, and spirit.
Yoga is an art as old as time, and does not have a specific founder.
Yoga is as much of a lifestyle as it is a form of exercise. People can buy books about yoga, yoga jewelry, banners, posters, clothing and more.
A newer form of exercise is called Zumba, developed by celebrity fitness trainer Beto Perez in 1990. The slogan “Ditch the workout, join the party!” has caught the attention of millions to have fun while losing weight.
Zumba classes incorporate Latin-based, energy-pumping music, with shoulder-shimmying, hip-swinging moves to burn an immense amount of calories. Zumba classes are usually one hour in length and can burn as many as 1000 calories.
Kickboxing is a form of martial arts that was originally created in Japan. However, over the years it has changed to be compatible with life in America. American kickboxing is the type that we are familiar with today.
Kickboxing combines different types of punches and kicks to a bag. The bag represents an attacker, as kickboxing is a form of self defense. In this perspective, kickboxing can double as a high impact workout and a self defense class.
Exercising is a wider spectrum than the traditional treadmill and pushups. There are a variety of ways to work every muscle in your body, as well as improving strength, posture, self-defense and having fun at the same time.
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