Get in Gear: Manduka Black Mat


Updated 02/03/11 11:02 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 6 comments

Get in Gear:  Manduka Black Mat

Are you looking for the world's best yoga mat? One that isn't too slippery, is thick and dense enough to cushion your bones, and will last a lifetime? Well, I have found it. The Manduka Black Mat is my absolute favorite mat ever. I've had mine for over six years and it looks exactly the same as the day I bought it. This 7-pound mat is made of extremely durable material that won't tear, Read more

Get in Gear: Pinda Mat Bag


Updated 07/20/07 6:39 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

Get in Gear: Pinda Mat Bag

Whether you're taking the subway to your Pilates class, riding your bike to Yoga, or taking a day hike with some friends, this is the pack for you. The Pinda Yoga Backpack from Saka can hold a wide range of mats. So even if your mat is pretty heavy, you hardly notice it because of the comfortably padded straps. And it's a back pack, so the weight is distributed evenly through both Read more

4 Reasons to Stick With Pilates


Updated 04/15/12 10:27 AM · Posted by · 11 comments

The Benefits of Pilates

Fad workouts come and go, but Pilates continues to be a favorite among Hollywood starlets and well-versed fitness fanatics. What's to love about the exercise? Check out these four reasons to do Pilates below. Complementary workout: Whether you are a hard-core swimmer or a bootcamp devotee, incorporating Pilates into your workout routine helps keep your muscles loose and flexible, important for Read more

Emma Stone's Amazing Ab Workout


Updated 04/11/12 4:15 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Emma Stone's Pilates Workout Routine

We are pumped to share one of our favorite stories from Self here on FitSugar! She played a frumpy reporter in The Help, but in real life, Emma Stone is the epitome of young Hollywood glamour. The 24-year-old made the transition from child actor to leading lady look effortless, but Stone puts plenty of hard work into every project she tackles, including her Pilates workout. "There's not much to Read more

Mistakes You're Making on the Pilates Mat


Updated 02/07/12 5:16 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

Common Mistakes in Pilates Mat Classes

Mat classes are the most affordable way to reap the benefits of Pilates. Taught across the country at gyms and private studios, group classes mean you don't have an instructor cuing and correcting your every move. Make the most of your time on the mat and be mindful of these common mistakes I've seen in classes over the years. Not Going Deep There are many benefits to Pilates, but getting in Read more

Don't Let These Workout Obstacles Discourage You


Updated 03/21/12 1:30 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

Excuses For Not Going to the Gym

Best intentions got you through the gym door, but anything from a crowded locker room to a forgotten sports bra can discourage you from wanting to stick with your workout. Before you turn around and go home, however, read our tips on how to get over what's holding you back. I'm late for class: Whether sneaking into class late is OK depends on a number of factors, including how effective your Read more

Trying Nonslip Toesox On For Size


Updated 09/01/11 10:00 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

Toesox Keep You Slipping on Yoga Mat [REVIEW]

There are two reasons I take a special gripping towel with me to hot yoga classes — it soaks up sweat during class, and when I do become overly sweaty, it prevents me from sliding all over my mat. But there are days when my towel feels like too much bulk on my mat, and I'd rather slip around than feel like there's a lot going on underneath me. Something I never considered wearing are socks, Read more

5 Signs You Should Cancel Your Gym Membership


Updated 03/14/12 1:20 PM · Posted by · 2 comments

Why You Should Cancel Your Gym Membership

I love my gym for many reasons: it adds structure to my workouts and motivates me, the class selection is amazing, and the people — both trainers and members — can be very inspiring. But I know that many times a gym membership isn't the most cost-effective solution for getting fit, and going isn't for everyone. Are you wasting your money? Here are five signs it may be time to cancel your gym Read more

Swimmer Natalie Coughlin on Pilates, Plums, and Backstroking For Gold


Updated 03/06/12 10:21 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Swimmer Natalie Coughlin's Olympic Training Schedule

Swimming always makes a splash at the Summer games, and Natalie Coughlin did just that in Beijing by becoming the first American woman to win six medals in one Olympics. A serious foodie as well as a gold medalist, Natalie took time out of her intense schedule to talk about her plans for London and how cooking calms her. Natalie's training day starts with a 4:30 a.m. wake-up, and she's at the Read more

Fit Tip: Dress the Part For Your Workout


Updated 03/02/12 1:50 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Pick the Right Workout Clothes

Wearing the right clothes for a workout is an important aspect when it comes to performing your best. Technical fabrics help you move freely and keep sweat at bay, but wearing the appropriate clothes will also keep you from being distracted by your outfit. Here are some tips for finding the right clothes for your favorite type of exercise: Yoga and Pilates: Clothing that is too loose or Read more