Pilates is one of the fastest growing fitness techniques, and one of the few that has considerable medical support. Through pilates you can improve your stamina, co-ordination, balance, breathing and concentration as well as improving your ability to relax - essential for beating the stress that is an ever-present factor in today's world. Pliates - A Beginner's Guide looks at the history and development of Pilates and how the techniques work to improve the function of your body. Each exercise is explained in an easy to follow step-by-step format, with each step photographically illustrated.