DIET | DETECTIVE^®

I’m starting to think it’s possible that literally every single person in Hollywood does Pilates. With the number of people crediting their newfound skinniness to the core-strengthening wonder-workout, it’s surprising that any new devotees can even squeeze into the studio.

This time it’s Hilary Duff, who waxes ecstatic about her addiction to Pilates in the July issue of Shape. Granted, it’s not such a huge revelation, since she’s raved about it before. After venturing into bobblehead territory two years ago (inspired by a not-so-nice “Duff Puffs Up” headline), Hil got back up to a healthy weight last year thanks to…Pilates, of course.

But while most Pilates disciples pretend it’s a one-stop workout miracle, Hil admits that she actually hits the gym and works up a sweat. Let’s face it—you won’t exactly scorch the calories on a Pilates mat. Hil can’t possibly weight more than 110 pounds, which means she’d burn around 175 calories an hour doing Pilates. Aerobically speaking, that’s the same as window-shopping. (Of course, it does build muscle, which burns more calories at rest.)

So to add some cardio to her routine, Hil hits the treadmill; she warms up with a fast walk on a steep incline, then jogs on a level incline. She also runs on the elliptical and treads water—both good for burning calories fast. Her diet strategy is simple: “If I eat bread when they bring bread to the table, I won’t eat pasta or potatoes. Or I’ll try to not have the bread because I know I want dessert.” Sounds reasonable—and way better than the typical “I just do Pilates and eat in moderation” explanation.

Bookmark:

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (1)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

...
written by Celeste, July 31, 2007

Pilates does more than help you look better. I have been using it to strengthen my core since I had back surgery last year. It is hard work and I am the only person in my cla*s that is not in perfect shape that has kept at it for over 6 months. I do walk on the treadmill and do time on the elliptical and of course eat right 85% of the time. I loose 3- 4 pounds a month and am very happy with the results.