Saturday, 14 May 2011

How Pilates Can Improve Your Running

Running and Pilates are two different exercises - running involves a rather high-impact, repeated motion while Pilates is low-impact and varied. However, Pilates is said to be an excellent complement to running. Here are some of the ways these two exercises can work in synergy.

Pilates and Posture

Pilates is said to improve posture by strengthening core muscles and making the practitioner aware of his or her body's position at any given time. Being aware of the body's alignment and posture can lower a runner's risk of injury. Being aware of correct posture can also reduce or prevent pain that may result from running. In other words, Pilates can help you run more effectively and safely.

Core Muscle Strength

As noted above, Pilates is geared toward strengthening the core muscle groups. These are the muscles in the trunk and hips, which include the deep back muscles and abdominals. They help you keep your balance when sitting or standing - in other words, you use them all the time without even realizing it.

If core muscles are weak in a runner, it may increase his or her risk of injury. It also might affect endurance adversely. Giving those core muscles strength may enhance posture and overall body stability.

Body Awareness

Pilates teaches body awareness - that is, you learn to recognize your body's position in space, how your muscles and joints feel, and how you can correct any problems. Being aware of one's body in this way may help runners gain insight into weaknesses that, if unaddressed, could increase the risk of injury.

For example, a runner who is unaware of his or her body may keep running when there is a physical problem, or something a bit "off." This can result in injury. A body-aware runner, however, might be more attuned to the body's warning signals and slow down or stop the run before the problem becomes an injury.

Breathing

Surprisingly, breathing in a really health-promoting way is something many of us have to be taught. The deep breathing of Pilates may help runners with their overall lung capacity and function. Being able to take in oxygen and use it efficiently is key to successful running, and Pilates may help in that regard.

Whole Body Workout

Pilates works all muscle groups, so your runners' muscles will get a workout, too. It stands to reason that any activity that strengthens the muscles would help another activity that requires those muscles, but it's more than that. Pilates promotes the strength of specific muscles, and also emphasizes flexibility. Have muscles that are both strong and flexible can help prevent running injuries.

By Daily Health Tips

How Kids Can Benefit from Pilates

Childhood obesity is certainly a hot topic these days. There is no doubt that there is a problem - statistics continually show that more children are overweight than ever before. Children are also suffering from problems that do not have anything to do with obesity - asthma, allergies, autism, and other problems are increasing among children. How can Pilates help? Can kids benefit from these exercises? Here are some ideas as to how kids can benefit from Pilates.

Sitting

It may seem ironic, but Pilates may help kids with sitting still in the classroom (or anywhere else). The muscles emphasized and strengthened in Pilates are the core muscles, which are key for correct posture. A child whose core muscles are flexible and strong will probably find it a lot easier to sit still for long periods, because it's more comfortable. Many times adults and children shift and fidget because of discomfort or even pain.

Weight Loss

While Pilates is not an intensive, cardiovascular workout, it can help promote weight loss. For one thing, time spent in a Pilates class is time not spent in front of the TV or computer, playing video games, or being otherwise engaged in sedentary activities. But Pilates itself can help children to lose weight and develop a leaner body. That's what muscle strengthening is alleged to do, and because Pilates focuses on muscles that you use all the time, the theory is that Pilates practitioners continue to burn calories at a greater rate between workout sessions.

Something for Everyone

Some children may be intimidated about starting sports or even just playing outside with others. It may seem to them that sports are only for the physically adept, and they don't want to be "the fat kid" on the team. Pilates, though, can accommodate anyone. All body types can do some form of Pilates, and it is not the exclusive realm of those with major athletic prowess. This can make it very attractive for kids who want to do something physically active, but who just aren't comfortable signing up for a sport.

Body Awareness

Pilates teaches body awareness. Children become aware of their position in space, and of possible bad physical habits (such as tending to raise their shoulders, or slumping in their chairs). This kind of awareness can benefit a child for a lifetime. He or she may be better able to detect possible injuries before they happen, and may develop a keen sense of when things are "out of whack." A child who is body aware should be able to tell when they're getting overweight and out of shape, too, because they will feel different.

Body Control

Teaching children to control their movements and bodies can prove invaluable. Not only could this enhance concentration (see Sitting above), but it also may also enable them to stop destructive physical behavior, such as hitting or nervous fidgets. Controlled, deep breathing is also part of Pilates; perhaps children with asthma can benefit from this aspect of the discipline.

By Health Tips

Pilates Equipment 101 - What You Might Need to Exercise at Home

If you are thinking about beginning Pilates, you might prefer to set things up at home rather than enroll in a class. If so, there is some basic equipment you might need to get started. Here are some items to consider.

Stability Ball

A stability ball looks something like those bouncing balls with a handle that kids like to bounce around on - it's about that size. A stability ball is ribbed, and is intended to strengthen core muscles. These muscles are involved in balance, and balancing on the ball in various positions works these muscles. A somewhat cheaper alternative is a foam roller, which has basically the same function but it is firmer and therefore more challenging.

Mat

Probably the least expensive of Pilates equipment, a mat is also the most essential. A mat helps provide grip and cushioning for the various exercises and positions, and can be rolled up and stored fairly easily. A mat that is sold under the name "Yoga mat" should work fine, even though Pilates and Yoga are different.

Resistance Bands

Resistance bands were not, apparently, part of the original Pilates equipment. But many people like to add them in to their Pilates workouts. These strong, stretchy bands add resistance and make the exercises more challenging.

Reformers

A reformer looks something like a cross between a traditional gym rowing machine and a low bench. It is made of wood, and there are foldable versions available for homes with limited space. Reformers are intended to work the upper body, especially the abdominals. Legs and buttocks are also exercised on the reformer. Those who have trouble getting up and down from a low position can buy a reformer with attachable legs.

Cadillac

This piece of equipment can look a bit funny if you don't know what it is. It's also called a trapeze table, which tells you something about the look of it. It looks like a leather-cushioned bench with a metal canopy frame over it, from which hang various straps and springs. You can do exercises that require sitting or lying down on the Cadillac. All kinds of Pilates exercises can be done on this classic piece of Pilates equipment.

Wunda Chair

The Wunda chair is supposed to provide resistance to various exercises. The more old-fashioned type of Wunda chair looks like a wooden box with a leather cushion on several sides. You sit on top of the box (it has a cushioned back) and a "shelf" comes out from beneath. This shelf acts like a pedal - you push it down with your legs, and springs provide resistance. More modern versions are sleeker and made of metal.

Getting a DVD or viewing Pilates instructional videos online can be very helpful in learning how to do the exercises in your own home. You can choose to purchase some or all of the equipment, depending on your budget and what you want to achieve.

By Current Health Articles

The Many Health Benefits of Pilates

Pilates was begun by Joseph Pilates. In 1965, when he was 86 years old, Joseph Pilates claimed he never needed an aspirin and was never injured during his life. Everyone in the world would be happier if they did his exercises, he concluded.

While no exercise can guarantee perfect health for its practitioner, Pilates comes close to delivering the pain-free body that its creator claimed. There are other health benefits associated with Pilates, too. Here are some of them.

Strengthening Your Body

Pilates focuses on strengthening the "core muscles" of the body. These muscles are said to be the basis for body strength; strength of limbs and extremities "stems" from a strong core. Pilates experts say that muscles should be strong, but flexible. Just getting hard muscles is not the point of Pilates, although muscle toning is said to be an effect. Strengthening key muscles and muscle groups is the basic idea.

Body Awareness

As core muscles gain strengthen, Pilates practitioners say you become more aware of your body's posture, movements, stance, and so forth. Pilates instructors teach this "body awareness," providing insight into your physical habits so that you take the concepts with you outside of class. Eventually, Pilates students may get to the point where they are continually aware of what their body is doing.

Pain Reduction

As noted above, Joseph Pilates claimed he never needed an aspirin. Pilates practitioners say there is a significant reduction in neck, shoulder, back and joint pain after doing Pilates exercises. Pilates is said to extend the spine, which may explain the decrease in pain. Many health professionals think that much of the body's pain originates in a misaligned spine.

Flexibility

Joseph Pilates contended that a strong muscle was also a flexible one. Thus, lengthening and stretching the muscles is part of his exercises. Participants usually enjoy enhanced flexibility as a result.

Improved Circulation

Pilates is a total-body workout, involving the whole person and every body system. Thus, circulation is said to increase as the muscles stretch and the body strengthens its core.

Stress Relief

One of the attractive things about Pilates is its reputation as a stress reliever. In order to perform Pilates, you need to be concentrating on what your body is doing, thus redirecting a stressed mind to something orderly and peaceful. The physical stretching and strengthening can help relieve the effects of stress, such as tight muscles and various tension-induced aches and pains. Most health experts agree that stress reduction is an important aspect of good health.

By Health Tips

Pilates for Beginners Checklist

Beginning a new exercise routine such as Pilates can seem daunting. It may look intimidating if you're not prepared. Here is a checklist for Pilates beginners that may help take away some of the uncertainty.

The Pilates Class

Taking a group class is where many people start. If possible, see if you can observe a class before signing up. This gives you a chance to listen to and watch the instructor. He or she should have the following characteristics and qualifications:

* They should give clear, easy-to-understand directions
* They should be enthusiastic (not necessarily hyper - just an obvious love for what he or she does)
* They should be certified to instruct
* They should be doing the exercises along with the students

A good instructor makes you feel like jumping right in and trying. The students should look enthusiastic, too. Not everyone is going to be perfectly toned, of course, but look at the students and see if you can discern the kind of achievements you want to reach.

Also note if the students who are struggling are getting help. Does the instructor ignore them, or does he or she give individual help when needed? Does the instructor get impatient with students who don't quite "get it" right away?

Pilates at Home

If you choose to do Pilates at home, look for a reputable DVD with good reviews. You can also find Pilates tutorials and routines online. Just make sure it fits your level - choose a video that has the instruction you need, not the kind you wish you needed.

Equipment

The basic floor mat is a good place to start. It's inexpensive, and a whole range of Pilates exercises can be performed on it. Whether you are doing Pilates in a class or at home, having your own mat is a good idea.

Apparel

Your instructor will need to see your muscles and posture easily so that he or she knows if you're doing the exercises correctly. Thus, really baggy clothing is not a good idea. Tight, binding clothing is not helpful, either; you don't want anything that inhibits movement. Aim for comfortable clothing that is stretchy, like dance apparel. It should cling to your body enough to see what you're doing, but have enough give not to inhibit movements.

Cost

There is quite a range of costs involved in starting Pilates. If you begin at home with free online tutorials and a simple floor mat, your cost could be as little as $15 (roughly the cost of a more inexpensive mat). A lot of specialized home equipment can run well into the hundreds or thousands of dollars.

A series of classes varies by studio, of course, but you can expect to pay an average of $15-$30 a session. Many studios offer package rates where you pay for a series of classes for less than paying for each individual class.

By Recent Health Articles

Saturday, 7 May 2011

St. Regis Resort Bali - Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia

St. Regis Resort Bali - Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia



Journey to an exclusive and privileged location which breathes an alluring beachfront eloquence. Overlooking the majestic oceanfront and Bali's premier golf course, The St. Regis Bali Resort captures an element of style in a timeless and refined environment. A destination of romance and mystique, the splendid resort reflects the very essence of Bali culture. Featuring aromatic tropical flower arrangement, exquisite furnishings, intricately detailed and architecturally stunning interiors, St. Regis Bali Resort undoubtedly transforms and indulges the very senses of each guest.

Impressively designed, this all suite and villa resort features 79 suites, 42 villas and 2 residences. The resort combines panoramic sea views as well as tranquil, colorful and lush gardens, reflecting a true element of style in the culturally rich and luxurious environment of Bali. Combining modern materials and antique designs, each suite and villa is infused with a rich residential feel and is intricately adorned with indigenous and cultural Indonesian artifacts. Soaking in the lap of luxury, each villa features a Butler Room with its own separate entrance for a 24 hour personalized St. Regis Butler service.

Source : http://www.fivestaralliance.com/luxury-hotels/bali/st-regis-resort-bali

Monday, 2 May 2011

Excessive Burping Harmful For Body


We release excessive air from our body which is very important for our natural physical process. Burping is such a kind of process, every one burps and it’s a normal process for human beings but too much burping is very dangerous for body. An excessive burping person has to face many kinds of social and mental problems. When you are in a party at time a person doing excessive burping this is so much irritating for the party and as well as for the man. For bad eating habits burping became excessive. So for avoiding these problems someone has to avoid bad eating. Read More