Pilates and Yoga: A High-Energy Partnership of Physical and Spiritual Exercise Techniques to Revitalize the Mind and Body

I enjoyed this book very much, the photos are wonderful and the explanations are good too.

this book describes the best of both pilates and yoga. one of my favorite aspects of the book are the highlights of the body that show what is being worked with each move. as a pilates instructor i like that sort of information and feel it is helpful to participants. in the class there really is a place for both pilates and yoga as they both can help deliver optimal results in the quest for heightened mind body connections. this good for your library on the subject regardless of level.

In a 252 pages of artistic display of photographs and text, the authors strived to present the best of strengthening and flexibility exercise routines of modern times. They integrated yoga and Pilates in well explained historical and technical scenario that combines the Indian contribution by Iyengar and the German, by Pilates. The following are general observation about the book content and style: 1- The authors do not claim that their book is a substitute for taking classes in yoga or Pilates. The authors displayed modesty and genuine reasoning in almost every aspect of delivering information to their prospective readers. 2- The book clearly states the need for refraining from eating for at least four hours before starting exercise. They even recommend waiting for three hours after taking a snack before engaging in exercise. That shows the real depth of the authors' insight into realistic fitness practice. 3- Each exercise is demonstrated by four to five colored photographs that occupy a separate page for each exercise with legible and well chosen title depicting the purpose of the exercise. 4- The language of the book is simple and accurate, which makes reading enjoyable. 5- The photographs are chosen to show close-up views of relevant parts of the body as well as overall views of poses. It shows the dedication of the authors to facilitating the understanding of alignment of spines and posture during the performing of technically challenging exercises. 6- The book has two sections that describe individual exercises on yoga and Pilates. That is followed by a separate section addressing designing daily routines. In all, this book is a real addition to the literature on body and mind fitness. It offers practical solutions to the universal health problem of modern times; that is stress and anxiety. The authors have demonstrated the need for patience and consistent training in order to reeducate the body and mind to endure repetition and gain awareness about the bad habits acquired during routine daily activities. The number of authors and participant who contributed to this book has indeed poured their best knowledge and talent in neat and appropriate photographing, book design, and display of information. Mohamed F. El-Hewie Author of Essentials of Weightlifting and Strength Training