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Move of the day: Cobra Push Up I did a push up challenge this week in my classes and one of the stars of the workout was the Cobra push up! Very graceful…maybe even a little seductive. This takes a lot of upper body strength so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do it with attempt #1. This move works your chest, arms, and core. A. Start in plank on palms B. Then pretend you have a bar (limbo bar) in front of your head and try to bring your head under it, then your back as you lower yourself into a chest pushup. If you go low enough your chest will graze the mat. C. Once you’ve slithered under the bar, come into a full cobra with straight arms D. Then come back to plank and repeat

Move of the day: Cobra Push Up

I did a push up challenge this week in my classes and one of the stars of the workout was the Cobra push up! Very graceful…maybe even a little seductive. This takes a lot of upper body strength so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do it with attempt #1.

This move works your chest, arms, and core.

A. Start in plank on palms

B. Then pretend you have a bar (limbo bar) in front of your head and try to bring your head under it, then your back as you lower yourself into a chest pushup. If you go low enough your chest will graze the mat.

C. Once you’ve slithered under the bar, come into a full cobra with straight arms

D. Then come back to plank and repeat

Anonymous asked: Hi! I am curious, do you have fitness or nutrition role models?? Who are your favorite celebs and athletes?? Cassey: Oh wow! A new type of question. I love it! For nutrition, I really like my Nutrition Diva podcasts. The woman’s name is Monica Reinagel and she is board-certified Licensed Nutritionist and a professionally-trained chef. She delivers quick tips on hot foodie topics that are clear and easy to understand. I am actually going to do a giveaway of her latest book Nutrition Diva’s Secrets for a Healthy Diet: What to Eat, What to Avoid, and What to Stop Worrying About. More on this later! Fitness role models that I admire are the instructors that are able to create a community and a loyal following with their passion for their format. The creators of formats like BODYPUMP, TurboJam, Hot Hula etc. were made by instructors who had a vision of sharing their workouts on a larger scale. They helped hundreds of thousands of people change their lives, and they did it in a fun and creative way. They had a vision and they made it happen. They impacted lives. These are the people I look up to. Creatives. Entrepreneurs. Doers. Risk takers. I hope to one day share Pop Pilates with many more people as well. My favorite athlete is Apolo Anton Ohno. He is an Olympic speed skater and I’ve had a crush on him since high school! Haha. I also got to meet him at a Dancing with the Stars taping, and we hugged. Twice! I don’t really have favorite celebrities, but in terms of who I think is gorgeous…the list includes Halle Barry, Mila Kunis, Sofia Vergara, Jessica Alba, Vanessa Hudgens, Kim Kardashian (sorry! I have to!), Eva Longoria, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Megan Fox. For males, Zac Efron is pretty cute. Mark Zuckerberg is pretty inspirational. Oh and this is shameless but I really like Jake Pavelka from the Bachelor! He is hot and that is all. Anonymous asked: Hi Cassey! You really are the best. I’ve been doing your videos for over half a year now and have gotten my little brother (12) and sister (14) hooked too! Whenever people ask me how I keep so fit, I tell them about my little secret: Pop Pilates! It’s obvious that you’re super passionate about what you do, and I love that! I’m curious about what other things in your life keep you happy and balanced. What are your hobbies and interests outside of working out and eating healthy? Are you dating anyone or do you have any pets? Sorry, maybe you think these questions are too personal or irrelevant, but we’re all friends here, right? Plus I think it’s necessary to emphasize the importance of a full and balanced lifestyle ; ) Thanks for all you do! It’s amazing that you’ve made these videos accessible to people of all ages and to people who may not be able to afford workout videos or a gym membership. Cheers, Ella Cassey: Oh a Q&A session about me! How fun! Ok here it goes: Q - What are your hobbies and interests outside of working out and eating healthy? A - I love dancing, esp. ballroom and salsa dancing. There was a point right after college when Arthur Murray hired me to be a ballroom dance teacher. Then I decided I didn’t want to be in a studio for like 11 hours a day! But I still love dancing. I also love drawing. Especially fashion sketching and fashion design. I’ve been drawing since forever. Back in elementary school, the group of girls that I used to hang out with during recess and lunch would always ask me to draw pictures of them in the latest outfits. The kids thought I was going to be a artist when I grew up. At least that’s what they put on my Valentines Day cards! Haha. Oh and I also like trivia…I’m not that great but I love a good mind boggler or two. Q - Are you dating anyone? A - I guess the best way to answer this right now is…not really ;P Q - Do you have any pets? A - I have one pet. His name is Turtle. Yes. And he is a turtle. A red-eared slider that I’ve had for over a decade! My parents bought him for me in Chinatown when he used to be about the size of a quarter. Now he is as big as a notebook! thatsweetedge asked: You’re butt blasters video worked wonders for me. I’m finally almost completely content with my body now the only part that I still want to tone is my thighs. No matter how much a run on the treadmill, how much I diet, and how much I do squats and lunges, I cant tone my thighs. They’re thinner but not where I want to be. My calves are so tiny and my legs are strong so I don’t think simple squats and lunges will do anything for me anymore. Pleaseeeee help me. I would be so grateful if you could make a high intensity thigh blaster pop pilates video. I have tried everything and your butt blaster video worked so well for me I know you can come up with something incredible! Please help me reach my goal in time for summer! I will finally have achieved the body I always wanted. I think alot of other girls can benefit from the video too! Cassey: Thanks for the thigh video suggestion. Have you tried my Legs & Thighs 10 min video yet? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHfe0rG_THk Anonymous asked: Hi Cassey, my name is selmed and I want to ask a favours, can’t the videos be made downloadable so that those of us who have no constant access to internet take them on our computers for use? I really enjoy your videos, keep it up. Cassey: I am currently looking into making a DVD…but this won’t be for a while. I need to figure out music copyright laws. So, I’m sorry, but right now I cannot make them downloadable. salmoomah asked: Hey Cassey! I’ve never done Pilates before, but I discovered your Pop Pilates videos recently and I am absolutely loving them! I think that what you’re doing is a great way to motivate people to get fit and have fun at the same time :) I just have a question about your leg workout though… I’m not looking to tone or reduce any area of my legs in particular (although that would be a welcome side-effect), but I just want a good all-around leg workout. Would using your Legs and Thighs workout be sufficient for that, or would I also need to combine that with Slimmer Inner Thighs and Runner’s Calves? And once my body adjusts to the workout, what would I have to do to make it more intense? Feel free to answer this in my ask. I really appreciate your help! Keep doing what you’re doing because it’s awesome! <3 Cassey: If you are serious about toning your legs, do all of the leg workouts. And once your body adjusts to the workout, I will have more workouts :) Anonymous asked: Dear Cassey, I love your recipes. Where do you take them from/do you know any websites with low calorie + healthy food and recipes? xoxo Cassey: I scour the internet for recipes of foods that I just happen to buy that weekend at the farmer’s market. I always link the recipe source at the bottom of each article. The sites that I love are: http://cheaphealthygood.blogspot.com/ http://www.hungry-girl.com/ http://www.skinnytaste.com/ Anonymous asked: Dear Cassey, You have inspired me so much! Basically, I was in a procrastination rut, always delaying my diet+workout start but now I do your videos 6 time per week and I’m startin to gain confidence (I’ve lost about 12 pounds so far…). I would really like to start to running to gain even more resistance but I’m not sure of how many miles I should start with (bear in mind that I am NOT used to running!). How many do you think? P.S.: You are beautiful! Cassey: Thank you for your kind comments. First of all you can’t “gain resistance”. I think you mean improve your cardiovascular endurance. Start with jogging. If you have access to a treadmill, start around 5mph and go for a mile. Then try to go faster every week. Maybe 5.2. then 5.4. Once you get faster, try going for even longer distances! Good luck. justbeingjess asked: Hi Cassey, I have a question about “shins to the air”. During that I have tons of trouble keeping my shoulders relaxed, they always tighten up and lift off of the floor. How can I prevent this? Cassey: So when you’re in table top position or “shins to the air”, if your abs are weak, then you’re going to try to compensate my pushing your hands into the mat and tensing your neck/shoulders. Try to press your low back into the mat and leave you shins up as long as possible WITHOUT tensing your upper body. Once you start tensing, then release your toes to the floor. Then try again, you’ll get stronger each time. You could also place a rolled towel or pillow under your neck for support. Good luck! Anonymous asked: Hey Cassey! I LOVE your vids but wanted to ask that seeing as you’re doing focus videos like pilates for beginners etc could you possibly do an ‘Overcoming a Plateau’ one? Just a suggestion! I like a challenge! Much love, Regina Cassey: That’s a great idea. That would probably just be a talking video though because everyone’s plateau will be different. If you’re trying to overcome a stagnant phase, you need to start changing your workout. That’s it. Add new moves that you’ve never done before and the body will get surprised. It will start burning calories faster until it gets more efficient again, at which point you will need to do something new again! Anonymous asked: Can Pilates actually make you taller? Cassey: In a sense, yes, because it will help with your posture so that you won’t walk around slumping anymore. But no it will not lengthen your bones. Anonymous asked: Hi Cassey, I suffer with bad lower back pain and I was wondering if you can recommend any exercises to help ease it? Cassey: Try “cat-cow”. You’re on all fours, palms down, knees down. Then you want to make a dip in your low back (like you’re holding a cup of soup on your low back) and stick your butt up. Now contrast that pose with a perching of the upper back - push the upper back high up into the air so that now your low back is arching in the other direction.  This should feel good. letsfocusonbeingthin asked: Hey Cassey! I discovered your videos and let me tell you…THANK YOU!!!!! When I first tried your videos I stopped and just watched the video and everyday it just kept getting easier! But one question, Pilates and Yoga are different, but which one is better to lose weight? I know it’s like DUH PILATES because you’re doing more physical work…but I’ve asked a few friends and they all said Yoga is very effective to so I dunno(: Cassey: Have you read my post on Pilates versus Yoga? Here is the link: http://www.blogilates.com/post/3696273044/pilates-versus-yoga-whats-the-diff-read Both are effective, just make sure you’re pushing yourself to the limit in each exercise and you will see results. Anonymous asked: Hey Cassey! My question is this, I work two different jobs: One is coaching gymnastics/tumbling 4 hours a day and involves alot of walking, catching, lifting and constant movement. The other is working at Subway, which involves constant walking at a pace of about 2-2.5 mph. The only time I’m sitting down is during the 20 minute lunch break. Can I count this as exercise? Should I add up the calories burned towards my calorie deficit? I feel like I’m clueless! Help? Mary Cassey: Hi Mary! Great question. Yes you can. But if you’re not seeing the results you want, it means that even with your constant movement, you’re still eating enough calories wipe out chances for weight loss. Does this make sense? Eat more calories than you burn and you will gain weight. Eat less calories than your burn and you will lose weight. Read my post on how to lose weight and find out your basal metabolic rate and your daily energy requirement. http://www.blogilates.com/post/3697883302/figure-out-exactly-how-many-calories-you-need-to Anonymous asked: Hey Cassey! Yipeee! You answered my question! Anyways, I think you should become a nutritionist since you’re a great role model for exercise + health. I would totally support you! I’m working on some Pop Pilates designs/slogans, and it’s really fun[: I wanted to know if there were exercises for building up quadriceps. Any ideas? Have a great week! Love, Lena Cassey: Cool Lena! I might consider looking more into nutrition. It is so interesting! Have you uploaded your design to the facebook page yet? And yes there are so many exercises for quads! Squats are amazing. Lunges too! rednblue asked: Cassey, your workout videos are SO awesome! I love that you incorporate your personality into them. I seriously feel like im working out with one of my friends. Thanks for keeping me motivated! p.s. I can’t wait to have toned awesome legs like you! =) Cassey: You know, I appreciate you telling me that you feel like you’re working out with one of your friends. I never really thought about it, but I guess I keep it pretty light and informal when I do the videos. But informal lets the personality shine through from my mat to your mat! So that’s pretty cool. Thanks for letting me know! Anonymous asked: i heard that no ab xercises are good for ur abs bc it will just built muscle on top of ur fat, thus making ur tummy fatter. PLEASE HELP!! Cassey: Okay, first of all this is so not true. #1. Ab exercises ARE good because they strengthen your core. If you don’t do ab exercises, how will you tone your midsection? #2. Muscle does NOT lay on top of fat. Muscle is attached to your bone, fat lays on top of muscle. I think what you may have heard is that doing a million crunches won’t get you a six pack. This is true. But you will get a stronger core. Underneath. You have to melt the fat off with cardio. shyskylark asked: Hey Cassey I love the move in the beginning of the butt blaster vid, it feels like I’m doing ballet on the floor. Having been a professional dancer I think it’s great. Do you have any more dancer like exercise moves for pilates?!!! Cassey: I love that move too! Check out The Bar Method. They are also very ballet and pilates-esque. I can do a video on dance-y moves. That’d be fun. Anonymous asked: I love your exercise, you’re an excellent instructor! I lost weight with your exercise and proper diet aid. I workout several times a week after your exercise. You’re the coolest! Alice from Romania Cassey: Congratulations! This is great news!

Anonymous asked:

Hi!

I am curious, do you have fitness or nutrition role models?? Who are your favorite celebs and athletes??

Cassey: Oh wow! A new type of question. I love it!

For nutrition, I really like my Nutrition Diva podcasts. The woman’s name is Monica Reinagel and she is board-certified Licensed Nutritionist and a professionally-trained chef. She delivers quick tips on hot foodie topics that are clear and easy to understand. I am actually going to do a giveaway of her latest book Nutrition Diva’s Secrets for a Healthy Diet: What to Eat, What to Avoid, and What to Stop Worrying About. More on this later!

Fitness role models that I admire are the instructors that are able to create a community and a loyal following with their passion for their format. The creators of formats like BODYPUMP, TurboJam, Hot Hula etc. were made by instructors who had a vision of sharing their workouts on a larger scale. They helped hundreds of thousands of people change their lives, and they did it in a fun and creative way. They had a vision and they made it happen. They impacted lives. These are the people I look up to. Creatives. Entrepreneurs. Doers. Risk takers. I hope to one day share Pop Pilates with many more people as well.

My favorite athlete is Apolo Anton Ohno. He is an Olympic speed skater and I’ve had a crush on him since high school! Haha. I also got to meet him at a Dancing with the Stars taping, and we hugged. Twice!

I don’t really have favorite celebrities, but in terms of who I think is gorgeous…the list includes Halle Barry, Mila Kunis, Sofia Vergara, Jessica Alba, Vanessa Hudgens, Kim Kardashian (sorry! I have to!), Eva Longoria, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Megan Fox. For males, Zac Efron is pretty cute. Mark Zuckerberg is pretty inspirational. Oh and this is shameless but I really like Jake Pavelka from the Bachelor! He is hot and that is all.

Anonymous asked:

Hi Cassey!

You really are the best. I’ve been doing your videos for over half a year now and have gotten my little brother (12) and sister (14) hooked too! Whenever people ask me how I keep so fit, I tell them about my little secret: Pop Pilates!

It’s obvious that you’re super passionate about what you do, and I love that! I’m curious about what other things in your life keep you happy and balanced. What are your hobbies and interests outside of working out and eating healthy?

Are you dating anyone or do you have any pets?

Sorry, maybe you think these questions are too personal or irrelevant, but we’re all friends here, right? Plus I think it’s necessary to emphasize the importance of a full and balanced lifestyle ; )

Thanks for all you do! It’s amazing that you’ve made these videos accessible to people of all ages and to people who may not be able to afford workout videos or a gym membership.

Cheers,

Ella

Cassey: Oh a Q&A session about me! How fun! Ok here it goes:

Q - What are your hobbies and interests outside of working out and eating healthy?

A - I love dancing, esp. ballroom and salsa dancing. There was a point right after college when Arthur Murray hired me to be a ballroom dance teacher. Then I decided I didn’t want to be in a studio for like 11 hours a day! But I still love dancing. I also love drawing. Especially fashion sketching and fashion design. I’ve been drawing since forever. Back in elementary school, the group of girls that I used to hang out with during recess and lunch would always ask me to draw pictures of them in the latest outfits. The kids thought I was going to be a artist when I grew up. At least that’s what they put on my Valentines Day cards! Haha. Oh and I also like trivia…I’m not that great but I love a good mind boggler or two.

Q - Are you dating anyone?

A - I guess the best way to answer this right now is…not really ;P

Q - Do you have any pets?

A - I have one pet. His name is Turtle. Yes. And he is a turtle. A red-eared slider that I’ve had for over a decade! My parents bought him for me in Chinatown when he used to be about the size of a quarter. Now he is as big as a notebook!

thatsweetedge asked:

You’re butt blasters video worked wonders for me. I’m finally almost completely content with my body now the only part that I still want to tone is my thighs. No matter how much a run on the treadmill, how much I diet, and how much I do squats and lunges, I cant tone my thighs. They’re thinner but not where I want to be. My calves are so tiny and my legs are strong so I don’t think simple squats and lunges will do anything for me anymore. Pleaseeeee help me. I would be so grateful if you could make a high intensity thigh blaster pop pilates video. I have tried everything and your butt blaster video worked so well for me I know you can come up with something incredible! Please help me reach my goal in time for summer! I will finally have achieved the body I always wanted. I think alot of other girls can benefit from the video too!

Cassey: Thanks for the thigh video suggestion. Have you tried my Legs & Thighs 10 min video yet? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHfe0rG_THk

Anonymous asked:

Hi Cassey, my name is selmed and I want to ask a favours, can’t the videos be made downloadable so that those of us who have no constant access to internet take them on our computers for use? I really enjoy your videos, keep it up.

Cassey: I am currently looking into making a DVD…but this won’t be for a while. I need to figure out music copyright laws. So, I’m sorry, but right now I cannot make them downloadable.

salmoomah asked:

Hey Cassey! I’ve never done Pilates before, but I discovered your Pop Pilates videos recently and I am absolutely loving them! I think that what you’re doing is a great way to motivate people to get fit and have fun at the same time :) I just have a question about your leg workout though… I’m not looking to tone or reduce any area of my legs in particular (although that would be a welcome side-effect), but I just want a good all-around leg workout. Would using your Legs and Thighs workout be sufficient for that, or would I also need to combine that with Slimmer Inner Thighs and Runner’s Calves? And once my body adjusts to the workout, what would I have to do to make it more intense? Feel free to answer this in my ask. I really appreciate your help! Keep doing what you’re doing because it’s awesome! <3

Cassey: If you are serious about toning your legs, do all of the leg workouts. And once your body adjusts to the workout, I will have more workouts :)

Anonymous asked:

Dear Cassey,

I love your recipes. Where do you take them from/do you know any websites with low calorie + healthy food and recipes?

xoxo

Cassey: I scour the internet for recipes of foods that I just happen to buy that weekend at the farmer’s market. I always link the recipe source at the bottom of each article. The sites that I love are:

http://cheaphealthygood.blogspot.com/

http://www.hungry-girl.com/

http://www.skinnytaste.com/

Anonymous asked:

Dear Cassey,

You have inspired me so much! Basically, I was in a procrastination rut, always delaying my diet+workout start but now I do your videos 6 time per week and I’m startin to gain confidence (I’ve lost about 12 pounds so far…). I would really like to start to running to gain even more resistance but I’m not sure of how many miles I should start with (bear in mind that I am NOT used to running!). How many do you think?

P.S.: You are beautiful!

Cassey: Thank you for your kind comments. First of all you can’t “gain resistance”. I think you mean improve your cardiovascular endurance. Start with jogging. If you have access to a treadmill, start around 5mph and go for a mile. Then try to go faster every week. Maybe 5.2. then 5.4. Once you get faster, try going for even longer distances! Good luck.

justbeingjess asked:

Hi Cassey,

I have a question about “shins to the air”. During that I have tons of trouble keeping my shoulders relaxed, they always tighten up and lift off of the floor. How can I prevent this?

Cassey: So when you’re in table top position or “shins to the air”, if your abs are weak, then you’re going to try to compensate my pushing your hands into the mat and tensing your neck/shoulders. Try to press your low back into the mat and leave you shins up as long as possible WITHOUT tensing your upper body. Once you start tensing, then release your toes to the floor. Then try again, you’ll get stronger each time. You could also place a rolled towel or pillow under your neck for support. Good luck!

Anonymous asked:

Hey Cassey!

I LOVE your vids but wanted to ask that seeing as you’re doing focus videos like pilates for beginners etc could you possibly do an ‘Overcoming a Plateau’ one? Just a suggestion! I like a challenge! Much love, Regina

Cassey: That’s a great idea. That would probably just be a talking video though because everyone’s plateau will be different. If you’re trying to overcome a stagnant phase, you need to start changing your workout. That’s it. Add new moves that you’ve never done before and the body will get surprised. It will start burning calories faster until it gets more efficient again, at which point you will need to do something new again!

Anonymous asked:

Can Pilates actually make you taller?

Cassey: In a sense, yes, because it will help with your posture so that you won’t walk around slumping anymore. But no it will not lengthen your bones.

Anonymous asked:

Hi Cassey, I suffer with bad lower back pain and I was wondering if you can recommend any exercises to help ease it?

Cassey: Try “cat-cow”. You’re on all fours, palms down, knees down. Then you want to make a dip in your low back (like you’re holding a cup of soup on your low back) and stick your butt up. Now contrast that pose with a perching of the upper back - push the upper back high up into the air so that now your low back is arching in the other direction.  This should feel good.

letsfocusonbeingthin asked:

Hey Cassey! I discovered your videos and let me tell you…THANK YOU!!!!! When I first tried your videos I stopped and just watched the video and everyday it just kept getting easier! But one question, Pilates and Yoga are different, but which one is better to lose weight? I know it’s like DUH PILATES because you’re doing more physical work…but I’ve asked a few friends and they all said Yoga is very effective to so I dunno(:

Cassey: Have you read my post on Pilates versus Yoga? Here is the link: http://www.blogilates.com/post/3696273044/pilates-versus-yoga-whats-the-diff-read Both are effective, just make sure you’re pushing yourself to the limit in each exercise and you will see results.

Anonymous asked:

Hey Cassey!

My question is this, I work two different jobs: One is coaching gymnastics/tumbling 4 hours a day and involves alot of walking, catching, lifting and constant movement. The other is working at Subway, which involves constant walking at a pace of about 2-2.5 mph. The only time I’m sitting down is during the 20 minute lunch break. Can I count this as exercise? Should I add up the calories burned towards my calorie deficit? I feel like I’m clueless! Help?

Mary

Cassey: Hi Mary! Great question. Yes you can. But if you’re not seeing the results you want, it means that even with your constant movement, you’re still eating enough calories wipe out chances for weight loss. Does this make sense? Eat more calories than you burn and you will gain weight. Eat less calories than your burn and you will lose weight. Read my post on how to lose weight and find out your basal metabolic rate and your daily energy requirement. http://www.blogilates.com/post/3697883302/figure-out-exactly-how-many-calories-you-need-to

Anonymous asked:

Hey Cassey! Yipeee! You answered my question! Anyways, I think you should become a nutritionist since you’re a great role model for exercise + health. I would totally support you! I’m working on some Pop Pilates designs/slogans, and it’s really fun[: I wanted to know if there were exercises for building up quadriceps. Any ideas? Have a great week!

Love, Lena

Cassey: Cool Lena! I might consider looking more into nutrition. It is so interesting! Have you uploaded your design to the facebook page yet? And yes there are so many exercises for quads! Squats are amazing. Lunges too!

rednblue asked:

Cassey, your workout videos are SO awesome! I love that you incorporate your personality into them. I seriously feel like im working out with one of my friends. Thanks for keeping me motivated! p.s. I can’t wait to have toned awesome legs like you! =)

Cassey: You know, I appreciate you telling me that you feel like you’re working out with one of your friends. I never really thought about it, but I guess I keep it pretty light and informal when I do the videos. But informal lets the personality shine through from my mat to your mat! So that’s pretty cool. Thanks for letting me know!

Anonymous asked:

i heard that no ab xercises are good for ur abs bc it will just built muscle on top of ur fat, thus making ur tummy fatter. PLEASE HELP!!

Cassey: Okay, first of all this is so not true. #1. Ab exercises ARE good because they strengthen your core. If you don’t do ab exercises, how will you tone your midsection? #2. Muscle does NOT lay on top of fat. Muscle is attached to your bone, fat lays on top of muscle. I think what you may have heard is that doing a million crunches won’t get you a six pack. This is true. But you will get a stronger core. Underneath. You have to melt the fat off with cardio.

shyskylark asked:

Hey Cassey

I love the move in the beginning of the butt blaster vid, it feels like I’m doing ballet on the floor. Having been a professional dancer I think it’s great. Do you have any more dancer like exercise moves for pilates?!!!

Cassey: I love that move too! Check out The Bar Method. They are also very ballet and pilates-esque. I can do a video on dance-y moves. That’d be fun.

Anonymous asked:

I love your exercise, you’re an excellent instructor! I lost weight with your exercise and proper diet aid. I workout several times a week after your exercise. You’re the coolest! Alice from Romania

Cassey: Congratulations! This is great news!

Pilates versus Yoga - what&#8217;s the diff? Read through the diagram, really good breakdown of the differences. Here&#8217;s a text breakdown of the major contrasts just in case you can&#8217;t see the words in the enlarged photo: 1. Histories: The origin of yoga is somewhat unclear, but evidence shows that it may have been practiced as early as 3000&#160;B.C. in areas that are now India and Pakistan. Yoga has been developed mainly through the religious practices of Hinduism and Buddhism. Pilates has a much shorter history, being developed by Joseph H. Pilates after he served as a nurse in World War I. 2. Philosophies: Both yoga and Pilates embrace the importance of the mind in controlling the body. There is a difference in that yoga seeks to achieve a balance between body, mind and spirit, coming from its religious roots. Pilates maintains a mind-body approach to improve physical fitness. 3. Poses: Many of the core poses of Pilates and yoga are the same or very similar. And the intent of the poses is the same in Pilates and yoga, which both use the poses to focus the body and mind &#8212; and spirit in yoga &#8212; so they are in union; this, in turn, allows a person to perform the movement or pose in the best possible way. The intent differs from many traditional exercise routines that focus on the completion of an exercise or movement and not on the performance of the movement. 4. Equipment: Yoga requires very little equipment. A yoga mat is the only essential piece of yoga equipment, with yoga blocks and belts being nice additions for beginners. Yoga balls are sometimes used, as well, to help develop better balance. Pilates equipment is much more frequently used. Although several Pilates exercises can be done with only a mat, Pilates machines allow for a much wider variation of poses and movements. 5. Benefits: The poses used in yoga and Pilates improve flexibility, strength and body control. Most practitioners also claim stress relief as a major benefit of both exercises. Information from: http://www.pubarticles.com/article-understanding-the-benefits-and-differences-of-yoga-and-pilates-1285628789.html

Pilates versus Yoga - what’s the diff?

Read through the diagram, really good breakdown of the differences. Here’s a text breakdown of the major contrasts just in case you can’t see the words in the enlarged photo:

1. Histories: The origin of yoga is somewhat unclear, but evidence shows that it may have been practiced as early as 3000 B.C. in areas that are now India and Pakistan. Yoga has been developed mainly through the religious practices of Hinduism and Buddhism. Pilates has a much shorter history, being developed by Joseph H. Pilates after he served as a nurse in World War I.

2. Philosophies: Both yoga and Pilates embrace the importance of the mind in controlling the body. There is a difference in that yoga seeks to achieve a balance between body, mind and spirit, coming from its religious roots. Pilates maintains a mind-body approach to improve physical fitness.

3. Poses: Many of the core poses of Pilates and yoga are the same or very similar. And the intent of the poses is the same in Pilates and yoga, which both use the poses to focus the body and mind — and spirit in yoga — so they are in union; this, in turn, allows a person to perform the movement or pose in the best possible way. The intent differs from many traditional exercise routines that focus on the completion of an exercise or movement and not on the performance of the movement.

4. Equipment: Yoga requires very little equipment. A yoga mat is the only essential piece of yoga equipment, with yoga blocks and belts being nice additions for beginners. Yoga balls are sometimes used, as well, to help develop better balance. Pilates equipment is much more frequently used. Although several Pilates exercises can be done with only a mat, Pilates machines allow for a much wider variation of poses and movements.

5. Benefits: The poses used in yoga and Pilates improve flexibility, strength and body control. Most practitioners also claim stress relief as a major benefit of both exercises.

Information from: http://www.pubarticles.com/article-understanding-the-benefits-and-differences-of-yoga-and-pilates-1285628789.html

The Worst Type of Group Exercise Instructors

How many of you take group exercise classes? I think they are the best way you can get your money’s worth at a gym. These are fitness professionals who basically are as close to “personal training” as you can get without paying extra. They are there for you, motivating you, fixing your form, and making sure you get a good workout. Take a class at your gym! Try Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Kickboxing, Tai Chi, BODYPUMP, Bootcamp! It is a fun way to meet people and a great way to learn something new. Change up the routine and take a group exercise class! And if you’re in Boston, come take my Pilates class at BSC!

A lot of the reason why some instructors have really high attendance versus really low or mediocre attendance is because of the personality of the instructor. In addition to being professional and knowing their stuff, is he or she infectious? Open? Motivating? People come back because they like seeing, hearing, and being around their instructor. I’ve made so many good friends and built strong relationships by getting to know my students before, during, and after class. It’s one of the best perks of my job. I love teaching!!! And I love my students!!!

So with that said, here is a funny blog post I found about the types of instructors that you may encounter at the gym. Some of these people may just be starting out, so cut them some slack and try attending again in 6 months. But if they are still continuing to bore you/scare you/intimidate you then I think we have a bigger issue at hand!

1. The Perpetual Screamer Characteristics:- can’t survive without screaming or yelling their heads off into the mike,- somehow believes that everyone else is hard of hearing, except Self,- loves hearing own voice projections through the mike,- leaves everyone with a earache or headache by the end of the class.  

2. The Sound-Blaster Characteristics:- close cousin of the ‘screamer’,- has a knack of upping the volume of the sound system to MAXIMUM,- addicted to the sound of LOUD music BLARING away in the background - somehow equates teaching ability to LOUDNESS of music,- major cause of long-term hearing loss for unfortunate participants. 

3. The Energizer BunnyCharacteristics:- full of energy; never seems to tire,- expects ALL class participants to be of the SAME fitness level as self,- conducts classes at ALL-OUT intensity,- chides anyone who fails to keep up with the class tempo,- fails to take into account new participants or those with lower fitness levels.  

4. The RegurgitatorCharacteristics:-  regurgitates the SAME choreography or SAME music umpteen times,  - simply too lazy or too indifferent to source for NEW routines/music,- convinced that participants do not mind familiarity or repetition,- number ONE cause of class boredom for participants.   

5. The Absolute Disaster Characteristics:- CAN’T seem to remember exercise steps or choreography,- CAN”t seem to follow musical beats,- doesn’t know how to cue or instruct an exercise class, - afraid of standing in front of class,- looks confused and lost,- leaves participants confused and lost. 

6. The Sophisticator  Characteristics:- loves to use sophisticated and complex steps in choreography,- more concerned with ‘impressing’ people than anything else,- self-absorbed in own ‘performance’ in front of class , - cannot understand why class has difficulty following the routine,- gets irked by members who seem ‘lost’ during the routine.  

7. The Out-Of-Shape Instructor Characteristics:- often underweight/overweight/unfit,- in worse physical condition than some class participants,- often out-of-breath and in need of breaks while leading the class,- in denial of own physical state.


Content borrowed from: http://singaporefitness.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/singapores-worst-aerobics-and-group-exercise-instructors/

Mimi Mango. What is this. I IMMEDIATELY did a double take and was like, haha are you trying to copy Lululemon? (2 syllable repeating set of 2 nonsensical words followed by a fruit) The logo even mimicked Lulu&#8217;s. I walked past it and then realized what I had said in my head. I then turned around and walked inside. Turns out this company is ALSO from Canada! The only Mimi Mango location is the one I actually ran into at the Planet Hollywood Miracle Mile Shops in Las Vegas. The activewear was about half the price of Lulu&#8217;s and the quality was lacking. The fashion was boring. Design was bleh. It was so C9 Champion from Target. I mean, why make another zip up jacket if it isn&#8217;t going to be special? And the fact that they tried to OVERLY brand all of their clothes with the double arch &#8220;M&#8221; logo just like how Lulu overly brands their Omega sign simply kills me. I mean, REALLY!? I&#8217;m not a Lulu freak so no bias here - I am just comparing the two companies side by side because Mimi Mango is outright trying to be a copy cat of Lululemon. It&#8217;s funny and it&#8217;s bold, but you shouldn&#8217;t do it unless you can beat what&#8217;s already out there. I also asked if there was an instructor discount and the lady working there said yes if you buy $500 worth of merchandise. I&#8217;m guessing the answer was no and she was talking wholesale at this point, which made me think the company is really small. I did end up buying a sports bra for about $15 off a sale rack. It&#8217;s pretty good so I am not complaining. Just can&#8217;t imagine WANTING to buy from them again unless the designs get a little more interesting. Oh yeah, and no online shopping website either! Or else I&#8217;d like. Definitely small.

Mimi Mango. What is this.

I IMMEDIATELY did a double take and was like, haha are you trying to copy Lululemon? (2 syllable repeating set of 2 nonsensical words followed by a fruit) The logo even mimicked Lulu’s. I walked past it and then realized what I had said in my head. I then turned around and walked inside.

Turns out this company is ALSO from Canada! The only Mimi Mango location is the one I actually ran into at the Planet Hollywood Miracle Mile Shops in Las Vegas.

The activewear was about half the price of Lulu’s and the quality was lacking. The fashion was boring. Design was bleh. It was so C9 Champion from Target. I mean, why make another zip up jacket if it isn’t going to be special? And the fact that they tried to OVERLY brand all of their clothes with the double arch “M” logo just like how Lulu overly brands their Omega sign simply kills me. I mean, REALLY!?

I’m not a Lulu freak so no bias here - I am just comparing the two companies side by side because Mimi Mango is outright trying to be a copy cat of Lululemon. It’s funny and it’s bold, but you shouldn’t do it unless you can beat what’s already out there.

I also asked if there was an instructor discount and the lady working there said yes if you buy $500 worth of merchandise. I’m guessing the answer was no and she was talking wholesale at this point, which made me think the company is really small.

I did end up buying a sports bra for about $15 off a sale rack. It’s pretty good so I am not complaining. Just can’t imagine WANTING to buy from them again unless the designs get a little more interesting.

Oh yeah, and no online shopping website either! Or else I’d like. Definitely small.

Yoga Mat Slings have arrived!!!

Friends, family, Youtubers, and Universe! The oGorgeous mat slings are FINALLY here!

Long hours of sketching, crafting, and perfecting have led to the beauty that is below. Take your eyes on a tantalizing journey of dressed-up-to-the-nines yoga mats, each with their own sense of unforgettable style.

First, we head to a fairytale garden…

Enchanted Bouquet Mat Sling, $45.00

Take your mind and your body into the enchanted forest and indulge in nature’s beauty. Caress your mat in exquisite floral vines adorned by magical wildflowers hand-cut and crafted with 100% genuine suede. Lucky for you, we were able to secretly transport this fairytale sling back into our world. Shhhh…

Now off to a world where yoga mats can be all cuddled and buttoned up…

Ruffle-a-Truffle Mat Sling in Mocha and Vanilla, $24.00

Now your mat can be as cute as a button with the Ruffle-a-Truffle sling! Wrap your mat with this sturdy strap for a neoprene-free walk to yoga class. With radiating ruffles and a pair of cuddly buttons to accent, your mat may just be the prettiest one on the block.

Stroll with me into the classiest jungle you’ve ever seen…


Beverly Bowtie Mat Sling in Vanilla and Creme, $22.00

ROARRR!!! Or should I saw, rawr? Please meet Beverly yoga bag’s little sister, the sassy, the classy, Beverly mat sling. Shall we say that elegance and femininity run in the family? Bow-bedecked and ready to charm any stranger with her good looks, this sling can turn any walk to yoga class into a Top Model runway.

Last stop is to my humble abode…

Modest Mod Mat Sling, $18.00

For those of us who appreciate sleek looks and fine lines, this sling will have you quite delighted. Simple as a dimple, cool as a cat, but hot enough for the fieriest form of Bikram, Modest Mod will always be there for you. 

There it is folks! The 2010 Fall oGorgeous Mat Sling line! Floral arrangements, bow-bedeckment, and ruffle-radiance galore. Which did you like best? Least? Let me know! Be sure to protect your yoga mat - it is your sacred space. Treat it as so, slash, DRESS IT UP!

<3 Cassey

Mat Slings are coming, very, very, soon

A few updates. I have decided to go for my reformer certification. I’ve been wanting to do this for while, so now that my club is offering the opportunity to enhance my teaser skills, I think it is time to take a deep breath, hand over the credit card, and get ready for some serious Joseph Pilates education. Apparatus, here I come!

I’ve also been BodyPumping it up. My arms have never looked so good! Teaching this format has made me appreciate the ever-so-intimidating barbell and the importance of weight lifting for stronger bones and stronger muscles. And women, do not be afraid that lifting weights will bulk you up! So not true unless you’re lifting like crazy and drinking gallons of protein shakes a day. This is most likely not the case. So lift away and one day you’ll exclaim, “OMG! I have a tricep! I see my tricep!” Sweet satisfaction indeed.

Lastly, I need to share that…

oGorgeous mat slings are coming! I am so so so excited for their debut on the website! I can’t give you a sneak peak just yet, but let’s just say it puts Gaiam to shame! Shame I say.

Below is an example of how mat straps should not look:

A lower price point and a tidy strap for us yogis who didn’t want the whole yoga bag but still wanted something. Maybe you already had a purse to put all of our stuff in. Well now, relieve your hands of their neoprene-gripping ways, oGorgeous mat slings are HERE to save the day.

Ruffles. Buttons. Bows. Wildflowers. Hand-crafted. Genuine suede. Only $22-$45.

Get ready, they are coming! Fashion and fitness unite, once again.