**All you need is a mat to reap the benefits of pilates. There’s no excuse not to begin your at-home pilates practice!** The book takes readers through the complete sequence of Pilates Mat exercises with photos and step-by-step instructions. Formal Pilates classes are enormously beneficial; however, they are also very expensive. Using *The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Pilates on the Mat* , readers can practice Pilates Mat exercises on their own–without all the expensive and intimidating equipment found in the studio or gym. Pilates is a fitness phenomenon that’s been around for nearly 100 years. Through a series of strength and stretching exercises, it **builds core body strength, improves posture, relieves pain, alleviates symptoms of serious chronic diseases, and has a positive impact on all of the vital systems–** all while building a connection between the body and the mind. Along the way, fitness expert Karon Karter gives readers: **• A Pilates primer:** how and why the method works on every body, inside and out. **• Basics for better breathing and posture.** **• Safe instruction** for flexing toward your healthiest self. **• Expert advice on Pilates Mat exercises** and using simple equipment, such as the Magic Circle. **• Poses and postures to increase range of motion,** bone density, respiration, circulation, and muscle control. **• Exercises for toning muscles and melting fat,** making the body look lean, healthy, and younger.