Pilates is a system of exercises developed by former German gymnast
Joseph Pilates.  It focuses mainly on proper breathing, spinal alignment, and core strengthening.  This “core” is the group of very large muscles at the center of our bodies composed of the abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks.  Joseph Pilates referred to this core as “the powerhouse” because it is the source of our physical energy, which then flows outward toward our limbs.  This powerhouse is strengthened so it can properly coordinate the movements of our extremities.  Ripped abs are a natural byproduct of this core development.  Spinal alignment involves achieving and maintaining the proper alignment of the head, shoulder girdle, rib cage and pelvis with respect to each other.  Breathing correctly involves fully inhaling and exhaling in a focused and precisely controlled manner for proper blood circulation.  This is believed to awaken the cells and remove wastes resulting from fatigue.

Essentially, Pilates was built on the idea of muscle control with no sloppy movements.  A Pilates physique moves with economy, grace, and balance.  Celebrities all over the world rave about Pilates:    iconic pop star Madonna, film star Susan Sarandon, actresses Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Aniston, hotel heiress Paris Hilton, and Spanish golfer Seve Ballesteros, to name a few.  Pilates helps them achieve longer, leaner bodies and corrects chronic back and hip problems.   British film star Hugh Grant has even declared that Pilates has given him muscles of steel that could easily help him deal with giving birth!

The Total Gym 1700 has the same basic inclined structure as the Total Gym 1100 and Total Gym 1500, but with important features added onto a much wider 40-inch base.  This is a powerhouse home gym that can carry up to 350 pounds of body weight on the glide board, which slides on a solid steel frame.  It features a Pilates bar for Pilates exercises that can help you develop balance and a wider range of motion.

Other features include dip and press-up bars for more versatile workouts.  A dip bar is especially good for working out the triceps.  A press-up bar helps develop the triceps, pectoral and deltoid muscles.  A press-up, which is also commonly referred to as a push-up, is performed in a prone position and involves lowering and raising the body by using the arms.

The Total Gym 1700 also has axles on either side of the board on which you can add weight plates for greater resistance beyond your own body weight.  Additional accessories include an exercise mat for floor protection and a flip chart of exercises for easy reference.

Not only does the Total Gym 1700 work your core to the max but it also tones and strengthens your chest and legs.  It’s a great device for doing the butterfly routine.  Work it right and your heart will also benefit from the cardio exercises.  To get the maximum benefit from your workout, remember to breathe properly, inhaling and exhaling fully as you do your reps.  Isn’t it great to wake up every morning to ripped abs and a lean, fit body that can take you wherever you want to go?