outdoors and fitness	« fitness
Added: June 4, 2004, 12:31 pm	Share    Print    Email

In the quest to enhance our quality of life, we have improved the way in which we choose to stay fit, flexible and energized. The evolution started with Yoga where practicing was available to the masses in studios and gym environments. We won't mention that yoga has been practiced for centuries before this phenomenon occurred. Subsequently Yoga has become one of the fastest growing trends across the country in recent past. What is next you ask? CORE strength is the new buzzword. It seems that everywhere I turn the word "CORE" is being used in exercise classes, fitness articles, even preventative health care is focused on CORE. After years of Pilates training and teaching, where the primary focus is on CORE strength, I am pleased to see that the health and fitness world has embraced this method of strength training and is spreading the news on how it can change your life, not to mention your workout.

What is so special about CORE training? With CORE strength and stability everything changes. Suddenly you are standing taller, have increased flexibility and balance, your golf and tennis game have improved, your back pain has disappeared, and you aren't getting injured like you used to. Should I not mention that everyone is telling you how great you look? So, you ask yourself, can I get all of this from a CORE workout? Yes!

Wondering where to begin your search for the perfect CORE workout? In an effort to stay focused on the CORE issue, below are the best of CORE to check out on the east end of Long Island. Be one of the first to catch the CORE fitness wave and ride the trend. CORE is here to stay and has changed the way many of us look toward fitness and well being. Whether you choose to try a classic method or new groovy class at the gym finding your CORE will change your life. Speak to your personal trainer or yoga instructor, pick up any magazine or check out the Internet for news on this fitness trend. This season the trend for sure is going to be CORE.

Pilates is the classic CORE workout developed by Joseph Pilates over 80 years ago. It is an amazing method that continues to challenge all of us regardless of age or fitness level. One of the best-kept secrets for years, Pilates is the fastest growing new trend in fitness now that the word is out. This method will change your body like no other creating long lean muscles, improved flexibility and killer abs. It's not just for females either. Men love it, especially once they realize how much stronger they are or can compete in golf, tennis, or cycling. Most Pilates studios offer private sessions tailored to each individuals needs on equipment with names like The Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda chair. It is an experience not to be forgotten and soon to become a habit. Check out your instructors training and background (Pilates Method Alliance is a good place to start) and be careful in the Mat classes offered around town, they are challenging to say the least!

CORE Fusion at Exhale Spa is the latest brainchild of Fred DeVito and Elisabeth Halfpapp formerly of The Lotte Berk Method. Named as one of New York City's best fitness classes by New York Magazine the class fuses the disciplines of CORE conditioning, Pilates, Yoga and stretching. The result is long lean muscles, a flexible youthful body and a sense of peace and relaxation. They've put all the best moves into one CORE class. If you like a large group class environment check out CORE Fusion in their new location at Exhale Mind Body Spa in Bridgehampton. Rumor has it they offer other services and a variety of yoga classes as well. CORE Fusion at Exhale spa is creating its own lifestyle fitness trend. It appears they are on to something big and plan to expand their universe to 20 venues in the next five years.

CORE is the new strength training class offered at Zonehampton in downtown East Hampton. A lower and upper body CORE strength workout limited to eight participants, CORE targets specific muscle groups that enhance stability and balance. After years of offering the best spin classes on the east end, Zonehampton decided to expand their repertoire to include heart rate training and CORE for increased endurance and strength in the indoor cycling environment. CORE features "resista-balls " that help clients gain new body awareness by focusing on their physical center. This class will work your abs while having a great time. Add this to your workout to get to the next level of your spin class and enjoy the seductive energy at Zonehampton.

For more information, click here.

Fitness enthusiast Debbie Rudoy is a certified Pilates instructor and the owner of Sag Harbor Pilates.