Other Paths to Stretching and Toning

Other Paths to Stretching and Toning

Some of the oldest paths to fitness are new again, and more people are embracing forms of holistic fitness that have long been understood in non-European cultures. Such approaches often are described in contemporary parlance as mind/body or mind/body/spirit philosophies. Many people are drawn to ancient Eastern practices such as yoga and tai chi to tone up and calm down at the same time. In addition to focused, somewhat introspective movements and postures, relaxation and meditation often are part of the appeal. These practices have been around for a long time but only recently have begun going mainstream. Their names often are derived from nature,which indicates the mind/body connection that has endured through the ages.
Another basic approach to fitness draws more from European and American practices such as Pilates, Feldenkrais, and the Alexander Technique. Their focus is on body balance and alignment as a way to enhance strength and fitness. They all adhere to concepts such as lengthening the muscles, stretching, and balancing the musculoskeletal system to be limber and free of pain. Many people—trainers and other fitness professionals as well as the general public—are now more aware of alternative paths and the mind/body relationship that is useful in embarking on and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Such programs, developed by creative thinkers in fitness, stem from a Western tradition but often lead to the same results as older Eastern philosophies.