Don’t sleep on this Joe Pilates Classic: The Hundred

Joesph Pilates Training Opera Singer, Roberta Peters

Life Magazine Vol. 31 No. 15 October 8, 1951 “Diva with Muscle”

Images by Michael Rougier

3 Unexpected Facts About "The Hundred" in Pilates:

1. Mindful Breathing for Inner Chill: While many expect Pilates to focus solely on physical strength, "The Hundred" surprises practitioners with its emphasis on mindful breathing. It's not just about pumping your arms; it's about synchronizing your breath, promoting inner calm and mental focus in the midst of a physical challenge.

2. Secret Cardio Workout: Pilates isn't often associated with cardiovascular exercise, but "The Hundred" defies expectations. The rapid arm movements and controlled breathing elevate your heart rate, delivering a surprising cardio boost. It's like getting a two-in-one workout, enhancing both strength and cardiovascular health.

3. Muscle Endurance: The Core Connection: Beyond sculpting a six-pack, "The Hundred" delves deep into muscle endurance. The unexpected part? It targets not just superficial muscles but engages the often-neglected transverse abdominis, building endurance from the inside out. This hidden core work leaves practitioners amazed at the newfound strength and stability they develop.

3 Tips for Mastering "The Hundred":

1. Breathe Like You Mean It: The secret sauce lies in your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose for 5 counts, allowing your lungs to expand fully. Then, exhale forcefully through your mouth for another 5 counts, engaging your core. It’s not just about air; it’s about harnessing the power of your breath to fuel your movements effectively.

2. Precision Over Repetition: Precision beats repetition here. Focus on the quality of your movements rather than the quantity. Keep your arm pumps controlled, steady, and purposeful. Imagine moving through resistance, ensuring every motion counts. It’s the attention to detail that transforms this exercise from ordinary to extraordinary.

3. Modify, Don’t Compromise: Everyone’s Pilates journey is unique. If you find the traditional form challenging, don’t be afraid to modify. Start by keeping your head and shoulders on the mat, gradually progressing as your strength builds. The unexpected tip? Modification is not a sign of weakness but a smart strategy to tailor the exercise to your current fitness level, ensuring sustainable progress.

3 Surprising Benefits of "The Hundred":

1. Peace in the Chaos: Amidst the rapid arm pumps and core engagement, there's a surprising sense of zen. The synchronized breathing and focused movements create a meditative experience, offering stress relief and mental clarity. It's not just a physical exercise; it's a holistic mind-body journey that leaves you refreshed and centered.

2. Core Strength Under the Surface: Sure, a strong core is attractive, but "The Hundred" offers more. It builds endurance deep within your core, strengthening muscles like the transverse abdominis. This unexpected depth of core engagement translates into better posture, reduced back pain, and enhanced overall physical performance, surprising practitioners with newfound strength and stability.

3. Cardiovascular Plot Twist: Pilates isn't all slow and controlled; "The Hundred" injects a surprising cardio element. The deliberate breathing and continuous arm movements elevate your heart rate, improving cardiovascular health. It's like discovering a hidden doorway to a healthier heart, making Pilates not just about strength but also about boosting your cardiovascular fitness in unexpected ways.