If you are new to Pilates and are serious about learning an exercise form that can really make changes in your body, this is the book to buy. Author and Pilates expert Alycea Ungaro founded Tribeca Bodyworks and is also a physical therapist. Her approach to Pilates sticks close to the way Joseph Pilates himself developed it; as a result Pilates: Body in Motion is pure Pilates, without the embellishments added by a lot of other practitioners. Mr. Pilates had a reason for creating the exercises the way he did, and with an exercise style as precision-oriented as this one, it's important to stay true to form, especially when first starting out.

Ungaro's book is as clear and precise as the practice of Pilates should be. She lays out the exercises in a progressive and easy-to-understand manner, with crisp photos that show both the right and the wrong way to practice the moves. In addition to the programs, from Introductory to Advanced, there are also sections on wall exercises and the Magic Circle. Ungaro begins the book with an overview of the history of Pilates and an essential glossary - necessary elements to have a fully rounded understanding of the form.

Pilates acknowledges that all body movement starts with your core muscles. This book makes a great core when it comes to learning this style of exercise. Accompanied by some in-person classes, it will help you develop a Pilates routine that grows with your capabilities, and which will keep your muscles strong, supple and powerful.

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