New Year, New Decade, Stronger Core

by Kristen Matthews

2010 has arrived and I would like to welcome it with open arms and gratitude.  This new year seems a special one as it’s also the beginning of a new decade.  What a great time to make resolutions.  If one of yours is to exercise, you are not alone.  How about Pilates?  It’s a fun, effective, and streamlined way to stay in shape.

People always ask me if Pilates can really help them.  The thing that’s great about Pilates is that it’s beneficial for all ages and fitness levels.  From injury rehabilitation to improved fitness for sport to a healthier all around body, a regular practice of Pilates has many long-lasting benefits.  I see the benefits in my clients every day.  One of them credits Pilates for helping her “solve” a climbing problem.  Her flexibility has increased along with her core strength, both of which are important to a climber.

You’re first step to starting Pilates is finding a studio in your area.  Most if not all gyms offer classes as well as privates.  My recommendation is to begin with privates.  In a private lesson, your instructor can focus her/his attention on you, making sure to correct your alignment and keep you moving.  By making small changes with your body, your Pilates session can become a completely different workout.  If privates are out of your reach, don’t be discouraged.  Look for small classes or ones that cater to beginners.   A seasoned teacher is able to teach multiple levels and will give modifications when needed.  Like any workout, the more you do Pilates, the faster you will see results.  Set a goal for twice a week, and see how amazing your body will start to feel!

If you live in the Los Angeles area I teach a $10 mat class outside in Santa Monica on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings.  I also offer an introductory special, 5 privates for $300.  Go to www.kristen4pilates.com for more detailed information.   Here’s to an exciting new year!

This entry was written by kmatthews, posted on January 6, 2010 at 7:33 am, filed under Fitness, Life is Fitness, Los Angeles, Outdoors, Pilates and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment or view the discussion at the permalink.

Stand UP Paddle Boarding

genelle-ives

by Chris Gutzeit

Santa Barbara is quickly becoming California’s mecca to the fastest growing water sport in the world. Stand Up Paddle boarding a.k.a. SUP can be seen in abundance year round due to Santa Barbara’s beautiful climate. Take a walk down to the beach on any calm and glassy morning and see it for yourself. It’s hard to miss them as they appear to be walking on water,  or just out for a morning stroll exploring Santa Barbara’s coastline from a new and exciting perspective.

SUP is a sport that is being embraced by people of all ages. It appeals to the masses and anyone can do it. I recently taught a Grandmother in her 70′s who absolutely loved it!!! and all her friends thought she was crazy for even wanting to try it. Kids pick it up fast… because kids pick up everything fast and their smaller size makes it easier to learn on boards that have a volume designed to float an adult.

SUP is great for improving your core strength. I get more and more women learning to paddle everyday and have heard it compared to yoga “yoga on water.” It’s a wonderful alternative to going to the gym and you never know what you will encounter out on the sea. Dolphins are a common encounter on our adventures and are just as curious about us as we are about them,  and usually swim right under your board and look up at you through the water as they pass you by. Is there better way to start your morning? I don’t know? This is how I start mine!!!!!

Aloha,
Chris

This entry was written by scrawford, posted on December 4, 2009 at 10:58 pm, filed under Fitness, Life is Fitness, Outdoors, Santa Barbara, Stand Up Paddle Surfing and tagged , , , , , , , , , . Leave a comment or view the discussion at the permalink.


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