Insider's Guide to Pilates

Get It Right

To get results, you need to do each move using the correct alignment and breathing, says Ungaro. Keep these head-to-toe tips in mind during your next workout.

• Scoop your abs as if trying on a pair of tight jeans, and keep them engaged through most of the exercises.
• Exhale on the exertion -- or the toughest part -- of the exercise, then inhale when you're in the recovery phase.
• Press your shoulders down and away from your ears, keeping your chest lifted.
• Reach out through your hands and feet.
• Keep a fist-distance space between your chin and chest when rounding your head forward.