I workout

Love Summer Glau's interpretation as the Terminator. See her attribute her great strength to working out ... perhaps a pilates-infused workout!



Want to improve your strength with pilates? Call 703.943.9726 to schedule an appointment with Flat Belly Pilates.

Criss Cross Variation

Try this variation of Criss Cross to challenge your core and keep your routine fresh!

Begin by lying on your mat with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your neck, one on top of the other, with your elbows wide. Bring your legs into tabletop position so that there is a 90-degree angle at your hip and knee. Inhale and allow your belly button to fall to your spine. Contract your abs and lift your head, shoulders and upper back off the floor. Twist towards your right knee in an attempt reach your underarm, not your elbow (!), towards your knee. Hold for three counts. Return to the center keeping your shoulders off the mat. Twist left and hold for three counts. Aim to complete 8 sets.

Spring Fever

After many cold and windy Washington days, spring is finally here! Shed the winter pounds and get ready for summer with the help of Flat Belly Pilates. To schedule an appointment, ring 703.942.9726 or send an email to mail@flatbellypilates.com.

Hip Flexor Stretch

Here’s a great stretch to relax your tightened hip flexors. Begin by lying on your back. Inhale and let your belly button fall to your spine. Then, draw in your powerhouse. Bring one knee to your chest, leaving your other leg on the mat. Hold for several seconds and, then, switch sides. This pose eases spinal stress and aids in better alignment. It also gives muscles and joints greater ranges of motion in poses like single leg circles.

Guys Practice Pilates Too

Yes, guys practice pilates too! Here’s a little something for you. Just a few workout essentials for every guy.

1. A must is your favorite, well-worn t-shirt. Who doesn’t like that? You’ll always feel comfortable and ready for the next workout.

2. The Chief Jacket by Lululemon is just plain cute and will allow to transition easily from the pilates studio to your next destination.

3. A pair of pants that won’t ride up during a pilates routine. I’ve got you covered with Lululemon Athletica’s Cooldown Pant. It has a relaxed fit with flat seams to prevent chafing and back zip pocket to secure money and keys.

4. Run DMC said it best … My Adidas! I like the Superstar 2.

Post a comment to let me know what your other favorites are.

Safety First

I just wanted to you remind you that before engaging in pilates, you should discuss your medical history and fitness goals with your physician so that you can make an informed decision about your health. Once you receive the okay from your physician, here are three tips for practicing pilates safely:

· Breathe. Proper breathing is an important part of your pilates practice. It involves inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Full inhalations and exhalations are important because they aid in movement control during difficult abdominal exercises. Avoid holding your breathe at any point during your workout.
· Move only in a range of motion that you can control. For example, if you find that it is difficult to make large circles during the “single leg circle” exercise, try drawing small circles the size of a dinner plate on the ceiling.
· You should never feel strain or pain in any pose. If you feel an exercise is too strenuous, ask your pilates instructor for a modification. She should have multiple options that are safe and effective. Also, don’t be afraid be afraid to ask questions like “Where should I feel the work” or “How can I relieve the tension in my neck?”