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Pilates: More than refreshingly innovative mind-body exercise

Hollywood celebrities and supermodels use it to maintain their physiques. Top athletes use it for injury prevention. Professional dancers use it for flexibility. With all the benefits of its adopted yoga stretches and exhilarating deep-breathing techniques, it’s no wonder Pilates has made its way into mainstream exercise disciplines.

“Pilates is for everybody — at any age or gender,” stated CJ Grady, who holds Pilates sessions on campus. “It actually started out as a rehabilitation exercise for dancers. It is a gentle exercise that focuses on breathing, on strengthening the core, and involves a lot of variety and variations which makes it so efficient.”

Grady holds an extensive instruction background in physical health, with more than nine years of experience in fitness. She is ACE and AFA certified for group fitness and personal training. Her Pilates sessions are free to all students and campus employees.

According to Balanced Body Inc., a leading supplier of Pilates equipment and instruction since 1976, the many benefits of Pilates include strength building, increased flexibility and agility, optimal core control development, flat abdominal muscles, slender thighs and strong backs. Plus, it is a refreshing mind-body workout.

Pilates is low-impact, safe, and gentle yet simultaneously challenging to help anyone look and feel their very best. It is just one of numerous intramural activities offered throughout the weeks of Fall Quarter.

For those ready to give Pilates a try, Grady’s sessions are held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays (Room 3002) and Thursdays (Room 3014).

For more information, visit www.bodyzone.com.