Does anyone remember Callanetics? Probably not.
In high school, my mom and I turned on the Callanetics VHS and exercised together in the basement. It really is a pretty amazing exercise. And, it is pretty easy to do when you're not watching the video. I've been thinking about that video and thought I would buy it on DVD on Amazon. When I searched it on the internet I found that, yes, there are other people in the world who have heard of Callanetics! Here's some information on it:
Callanetics is an exercise which isolates muscle groups and using tiny, precise movements, Callanetics exercises tighten and reshape your body while increasing strength, flexibility and body alignment. It is great because it is very low impact and yet, you can totally see a difference in your body.
Its founder, Callan Pinckney, was trained in classical ballet and designed a series of exercises to tone her body while rehabilitating from a back injury. Callanetics is therefore a no-impact exercise and appropriate for any age or fitness level.
How does Callanetics work?
Isometric movement is the key to callanetics. Just as an example, grasp your palms together and push against them. Keep pushing for a full minute and you will see that, although nothing is moving, your arm muscles are working hard!
Isometric movement occurs when we carefully flex and pulse different parts of our bodies in small, precise movements.
Isometric movement occurs when we carefully flex and pulse different parts of our bodies in small, precise movements.
Instead, students perform these small, regular pulses that work with the body to tone and lift, as compared to working against our bodies as we do when we strain to lift heavy weights. When we lift weights we contract and shorten our muscles. When we do isometric exercises like callanetics, we elongate our muscles.
By targeting the deeper muscles at the body’s core, posture is improved which makes for a longer, leaner profile. Other benefits include a flat stomach, shapely, peach-shaped behind, and toned legs.
Here's a video clip for any of you who are curious about it!
I'll let you all know when my DVD comes in and we can have an 80's exercise party!
3 comments:
I don't recall Callanetics as such, but I do recall the trend a few years back about doing some sort of isometrics for toning & strength training. Is this sort of the same thing?
When Jaime was just a baby (in the early 80's), I use to watch Joanie Gregans on the USA network every morning. She had a 1/2 hour aerobics exercise show. I did it faithfully every morning, and believe me I lost alot of weight, and I was so toned. Jaime would try and do it too, it was so cute.
So I'm up for your exercise DVD. Count me in.
Can we tease our hair for the party?
Elaine- Yes, this is the same sort of thing. It really is a good exercise, just kind of cheesy! :) I am sure they have an updated version somewhere!
Amy- How about leg warmers??!! Hehe!
Post a Comment