Fitness. When we hear this word many different images come to mind. My concept of fitness involves a symmetrically balanced body in terms of muscular endurance, strength, and power, as well as flexibility and cardiovascular health. Incorporating all of these aspects into my definition of fitness allows me to see how bodies can transfer force functionally and efficiently. Much of that transfer takes place through our CORE!!!!!

In working with Lindsay and learning Pilates, I have discovered how I can always improve upon this transfer. For instance, I am currently in the thralls of marathon training and I have been getting extremely tight. My specific areas of inflexibility and overcompensation (which can lead to gait issues in my training) are exposed in my sessions in ways that yoga and strength training have not showed me.

Pilates has helped me with my yoga practice, my strength training, and my running. Now the question becomes how can strength training improve YOUR Pilates practice? Here's the first of a few exercises I have for you to try, the Overhead Squat. It's a great exercise to include in your fitness regiment, as it succeeds in "working" your whole body. Incorporate these exercises into your routine 1-2x's a week, on non-consecutive days, starting with little to no weight.

Make two 90 degree angles with your arms. Place your hands this width apart on the bar.

	Once you have proper placement on the bar, extend the bar directly overhead. Position your feet wider than shoulder width apart, with your toes pointed out slightly.	Perform a squat,thighs are parallel with the ground while keeping a neutral spine. Take a deep breath in before squatting, and exhale as you are pressing up. Be sure to keep the bar overhead with arms straight at all times.

Erin White is a level 3 personal trainer at Equinox. She has a masters degree in kinesiology and a number of certifications and credentials, including her C.S.C.S. through NSCA. Contact Erin with questions or to schedule an appointment @ erin.c.white@gmail.com