Callanetics: Seeing is Believing

Callanetics - the low-impact exercise phenomenon of the 80's - has begun to regain popularity worldwide. A far cry from the jarring, high energy, kick-punch exercise programs marketed on today's infomercials, Callanetics appears deceptively simple and even ineffective. The routine consists of a series of small, controlled movements intended to isolate, condition and tone specific muscle groups. In fact, some movements are so small they are almost imperceptible, but visible results can be achieved within a matter of hours.

Callan Pinckney, the creator of Callanetics, first marketed her exercise program in a book entitled 10 Years Younger in 10 Hours. In the book, Callan backs up her claims of a tighter, slimmer figure in ten one-hour sessions with before-and-after photographs of her students' incredible transformations. An appearance on Oprah helped launch the book to bestseller status and continues to be rediscovered by new and former devotees.

Many of the exercises are meant to be performed on a barre, the handrail used in ballet studios during warm up. Since few of us have ballet equipment installed in our homes, Callan suggests common household alternatives such as tables, countertops, chairs, sofas and even windowsills. Just about anything that is sturdy and of a comfortable height can be substituted.

Some of the benefits described by Callanetics practitioners include better posture, flatter stomachs, and overall inch loss. From personal experience over ten sessions of Callanetics, I can vouch for those claims and add a few of my own: deep relaxation and better sleep, a stronger core and increased control. The movements were surprisingly challenging at first, but persistence proved successful and, as Callan promised, my body perfected the movements at its own pace. Rather than force yourself into a difficult or painful position, you're encouraged to do only what your body will allow, even if it means settling for less than perfect form. Eventually, you will be able to guide your body into the correct position.