From Publishers Weekly
Personal trainer and yoga instructor Urla has created (and trademarked) Yogilates, a fitness regimen that combines calming Hatha yoga with Pilates, a body alignment system developed by deceased posture guru Joseph H. Pilates. If the combo seems a bit complicated, it is, and Urla's how-to manual doesn't make it easier to understand. Lessons such as "how to establish the pelvis in a neutral position" or "how to lift the legs into you using the core muscles" might be manageable if it weren't for their hard-to-follow instructions. The remaining third of the book is devoted to advanced Yogilates. As in previous sections, Urla as well as chiseled yoga and Pilates teachers grimly illustrate the positions. But even Urla warns "not to proceed in haste." He also urges, in addition to thrice-weekly Yogilates sessions, aerobics three to five days a week. Ultimately, trying to follow Urla's fitness program is the real workout-and may inspire readers to unfurl their yoga mats just to relax. b&w photos.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Review
"With both yoga and Pilates enjoying untold levels of popularity, this is a fusion made in heaven...a gentle, safe form of exercise for health, well-being and relaxation." Evening Standard. "Jonathan Urla's blend has quickly gained a reputation as an ultimate mind/body/spirit exercise" Village Voice (New York).
Yogilates, as the name suggests, combines two very popular exercise regimens: hatha yoga and Pilates. It was created by Jonathan Urla in 1997 and in this illustrated guide he introduces this form of exercise to the UK, describing it as a single body technique that provides strength, grace, focus and flexibility. The mind/body benefits of yoga are complemented by the powerful therapeutic value of Pilates and together they produce a holistic, balanced and low-impact workout. Questioning the true benefits of the traditional approach to getting fit, Jonathan Urla noticed that regular workouts at the gym had given him muscle bulk at the price of agility, flexibility and coordination. He decided to reassess his regimen. Realizing that he had lost sight of the ultimate purpose of exercise - to improve overall health - he started looking for a regimen that would add more freedom and skill to his movements without increasing wear and tear to his body. He realized he needed a 'multidimensional' exercise programme and this led him to practise hatha yoga. He also embraced the strengthening techniques of Pilates, which aims to develop core strength and add stability and control. By studying and practising both techniques, he gradually came to understand that, when used together, they had a synergizing effect. This is a well-designed book, effectively illustrated with black-and-white photographs, illustrations and diagrams. As well as the basic positions and exercises, Urla includes topics such as essential awareness exercises and advancing your practice to provide a comprehensive overview. Given the success of the Yogilates videos all over America, this is sure to be a huge hit in the UK. This book would make an attractive and useful present for anyone with an interest in health and fitness. (Kirkus UK)
--This text refers to the
Paperback
edition.