PILATES THE KEY TO A WELL TONED BOTTOM

Practise pilates to perfect your ‘Pippa’ posterior…

WITH Pippa Middleton’s recent revelation that her fabulous physique is down to weekly sessions of Pilates, interest in classes have soared, with everyone desperate to achieve that same breathtaking butt. Pilates is also a favourite with stars such as Jennifer Aniston and Elizabeth Hurley for staying honed and toned, as the effective exercises not only help build core stability but also keep the muscles looking long and lean. It’s certainly worked for Pippa, here’s how it could work for you…

What is Pilates?

Pilates, named after founder Joseph Pilates, is a conditioning programme that focuses on core muscles – notably in the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle. It strengthens, lengthens and tones, as well as helping to improve posture, flexibility and balance.

Founder of Body Control Pilates, Lynne Robinson, who worked with Elizabeth Hurley during her pregnancy, says: ‘Pilates changes the way you use your body. Standing tall and looking so poised for such a long time, as Pippa did for the royal wedding, requires the deep postural muscles to work. Pilates helps build this endurance. It uses subtle and precise movements which really hit the spot.’


The Ultimate Buttock Toner

Lie with knees at right angles, feet resting together on a wall. Place a cushion between your knees. Breathe out and, as you breathe in, squeeze your buttocks and gradually raise your spine from the floor, until you reach the bottom of the shoulder blades. Hold and squeeze as you gently pulse up and down for 30. Lower to floor.

What you will need

All you need for a basic Pilates workout is a mat, but it can involve equipment such as a toning circle that incorporates light spring resistance to safely sculpt, tone and stretch the muscles. Join a class or get a qualified instructor to come to your home.

Celeb devotees

Pippa Middleton says her weekly session of Pilates at a studio near her London home have helped improve her core stability and posture. She says Pilates is a ‘weekly necessity that keeps me fit, happy and energised’.
Jennifer Aniston is also a staunch devotee. ‘It’s great. I had a hip problem. I had a chronic back and pinched nerve and it’s completely solved all of it. I love it. It makes me feel like I’m taller.’

Former ballerina, Darcey Bussell has done Pilates since she was 16: ‘It’s the best thing I have ever done for my body. Great exercise and a wonderful source of meditation.

Feel the benefits

According to its founder, Joseph Pilates: ‘In ten sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30 you’ll have a new body.’ As well as helping to give you a peachy posterior, Pilates will also help you achieve:

• Better posture, body alignment and balance.

• A stronger, more flexible spine.

• Greater body awareness.

• Longer, leaner muscles.

• Improved circulation.

• Increased energy levels.

• Relief from back pain, joint stress, sports injuries and chronic health problems.

• Stronger muscles.

• Better range of motion and freedom of movement.

• Less stress and physical/mental tension