Science of Pilates: Understand the Anatomy and Physiology to Perfect Your Practice (DK Science of)

Explore the physiology of 30 key Pilates exercises, in-depth and from every angle, and master each movement with confidence and control. Did you know that a Pilates practice can help strengthen your core, improve flexibility and posture, and help reduce stress and anxiety at the same time? Backed by scientific research, learn how Pilates exercises benefit every system in the body. Science of Pilates reveals the facts, with annotated artworks that show the mechanics, the angles, how your blood flow and respiration are affected, the key muscle and joint actions working below the surface of each exercise, safe alignment, and much more. With insight into variations on the Pilates movements and a Q&A section that explores the science behind every aspect of the exercise system, look no further than Science of Pilates to achieve technical excellence in your practice and optimize the benefits of Pilates to your body and mind. Explore the science behind over 50 pilates exercises to master each movement with confidence and control. DK brings you a ground-breaking health book that will help you revitalize your workouts and perfect your Pilates practice, by understanding the muscle action, breathwork and techniques required, every step of the way. Did you know that performing Pilates can strengthen your core, improve flexibility and posture, and help to reduce stress and anxiety at the same time? Backed by scientific research, learn how Pilates exercises benefit every system in the body. Science of Pilates reveals the facts with annotated artworks that show the mechanics, the angles, how your blood flow and respiration are affected, the key muscle and joint actions working below the surface of each exercise, safe alignment, and much more! Go on a journey of self-discovery to explore: - Specially commissioned CGI artworks depict all the main Pilates exercises with variations that add or reduce challenge. - Artworks detail the mechanics of each exercise, correct body posture, the muscles involved and how they engage to perform movements. - Illustrations featuring color-coding to highlight how the muscles, ligaments, and joints engage, stretch, and relax to perform each exercise. - Pilates programs tailored to different abilities and aims. - Suggested practices with a progressive increase in challenge over weeks and months. - Easy-to-follow infographics help explain the hard science behind why Pilates training is so effective and what beneficial physical adaptations it can bring. Set out to unearth the facts behind the pseudo-science fads, The Science of Pilates is an approachable, entertaining and easy-to read fitness guide for those seeking self-development backed up by solid scientific evidence. The popular question and answer format brings immediacy to the information provided, and the highly visually illustrations truly bring the science to life in a contemporary and accessible way. At DK, we believe in the power of discovery. So why stop there? If you like Science of Pilates, then why not try Science of Yoga to help you better understand yoga anatomy in order to perfect your practice and poses, or Science of Strength Training to support you in your journey to build you strongest body. Complete the collection today! CONTENTS HOW TO USE THIS eBOOK Introduction PHYSIOLOGY OF PILATES Muscular Anatomy Understanding Local and Global Muscles Understanding Muscle Slings How Muscles Work Skeletal System Bone Strength and Joints Core Muscles Neutral Spine Anatomy Understanding Posture The Nature of Mechanical Pain Pilates and Pain Relief Breathing Techniques Gut Health Pilates and Mindfulness for Stress and Anxiety PILATES EXERCISES Introduction to the Exercises Simple Posture Exercises Abdominal Curl Oblique Curl STABILITY EXERCISES Hundred Variations Rolling Back Variations One Leg Stretch Variations Double Leg Stretch Variations Rocker With Open Legs Swan Dive Variations One Leg Kick Double Leg Kick Scissors Variations Bicycle Shoulder Bridge Variations Swimming Variations Seal ROTATION EXERCISES One Leg Circle Variations Side Kick Variations Hip Twist Variations Side Kick in Kneeling Side Bend Variations Clam Lift and Lower Double Leg Lift One Leg Lifted STRENGTH EXERCISES Roll Up Variations Roll Over Corkscrew Neck Pull Jack Knife Teaser Variations Leg Pull Front Variations Leg Pull Back Variations Boomerang Rocking Breaststroke Criss Cross Control Balance Push Up Variations MOBILITY EXERCISES Spine Stretch Saw Spine Twist Cobra Arm Openings Thread the Needle Mermaid PILATES TRAINING General Fitness Beginner Workout Plans Intermediate Workout Plans Advanced Workout Plans Pilates for Running Pilates for Swimming Pilates for Strength Training Pilates for Sedentary Workers Pilates for Women’s Health Pilates for Back Pain Pilates for Neck Pain and Headaches Pilates for Scoliosis Pilates for Hypermobility Pilates for Osteoporosis Pilates for Arthritis BIBLIOGRAPHY ABOUT THE AUTHOR ACKNOWLEDGMENTS COPYRIGHT