Best Book About Pilates Reviewed
by Bob Hannum July 25, 2013
If you want the best book on Pilates mat exercise, pick up the paperback, The Complete Book of Pilates for Men: The Lifetime Plan for Strength, Power, and Peak Performance by Daniel Lyons, Jr. It’s available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Challenging Pilates Myths
It’s about time that someone in the Pilates world challenged the prevailing thought – mostly among men who have never tried it – that Pilates is some kind of special exercise for women, or that it’s too easy. This book destroys these myths! Lyons presents Pilates at its most rigorous.
For Men & Women
Daniel Lyon, Jr.
In over 3 decades of teaching and practicing Pilates, I have seen quite a few publications on the subject, and this is by far the best. Lyons should have titled it for men as well as women. In an email from Lyons, he agrees that the book is applicable to both sexes, but he wanted to focus on men who are generally underrepresented in the Pilates world. And this is one of the reasons I so enjoy this book – Lyons presents many difficult and challenging exercises, reinvigorating my own advanced practice.
It’s easy to read, with detailed diagrams, clear instructions, and careful attention to safeguarding against injury. Lyons’ knowledge and care prove just how incredibly experienced and serious he is.
Original Pilates Exercises PLUS!
Lyons presents the original Pilates postures. Few – even among teachers of Pilates – remember that Joseph Pilates first developed the mat exercises, then later developed machines for those whose physical injuries and limitations made it too difficult to do the mat routine. This is not to criticize or discourage the machines or the evolution of Pilates by teachers who add new moves and props, or combine techniques such as Yoga (Yogalates) and Zumba (Zumbalates). Lyons freely adds advanced moves to each original exercise as well as entire sections on props such as bands and metal rings.
The Bible of Pilates Mat Exercise
Pilates is the Einstein of fitness. He set the stage for an exercise method with more benefits than any other exercise technique. He created exercises to strengthen the core that are unrivaled. His principles of core strength are now standard practice among fitness trainers and physical therapists worldwide. Lyons honors the Pilates tradition with what amounts to the Bible of Pilates mat exercise. But don’t just take my word for it – check out other reviews.
Daniel Lyon, Jr.
It’s all you need whether you’re a beginner and want to explore Pilates on your own, or an experienced teacher looking to revitalize your practice. A must-addition to any Pilates library.