Men's Traveler

AMAN PILATES
 
The Innovative New Program Will Debut at Amanpuri in Phuket, Thailand

Singapore - December 19, 2008: Devotées of Pilates don't have to break from their fitness routine when they travel to Amanpuri, the flagship property of Amanresorts in Phuket, Thailand.   Amanresorts has announced the launch of Aman Pilates, a program encompassing the highest level of Pilates instruction and Gyrotonic® physical fitness systems.  Aman at Summer Palace, Beijing, the company's newest resort in Beijing, China, will follow with Aman Pilates in early 2009.
 
In consultation with Ivana Daniell, an internationally recognized instructor with more than twenty years of experience in Pilates and Movement Therapy, Aman Pilates has created a multi-disciplinary and dynamic team to lead classes, research and development.  Quality instruction is the guiding principle of Pilates and the Aman Pilates staff is trained in the latest techniques in the field of Intelligent Movement. 
 
"Aman Pilates will offer a wide variety of instruction in clinical exercise, fitness and sports-specific training," states Ivana Daniell.  "Private or group classes cater to the needs of each client."
 
The program begins with a Signature Postural Assessment to evaluate body movement along with a personal physical history, evaluation of current fitness goals, and an objective analysis of postural alignment.  The Assessment includes a report that outlines a wellness program specifically designed for each client's needs. 
 
Private or group classes are led in Amanpuri's duplex glass-walled gym perched on a hillside with spectacular views of the Andaman Sea.  The gym offers a wide range of cardiovascular equipment and free weights with personal trainers available upon request for Power Plate, Pilates and Gyrotonic® instruction.  Private Pilates studio sessions accommodate up to three guests.  Group classes have a maximum of ten people for Matwork Pilates and five for Allegro Pilates to ensure individual attention. 
 
Introductory three- and six-day programs will be available at Amanpuri from May to August 2009. The three-day program begins with a one-hour overview called "Pilates Principles" to familiarize guests with the Reformer equipment, raise awareness of core body control and focus on breathing.  The second day's class, "New Exercises and Elements of Pilates Principles," further develops confidence and competence.  The third and final session, "Participation in the Allegro Reformer Group Program Level 1," explores all of the principles of Pilates and introduces additional equipment such as magic rings and foam rollers.  The program is capped by a special one-hour workshop using the ultra fit circle, a class specifically designed by Ivana Daniell for Aman Pilates clients with a review of exercises suitable for practice while traveling.  Clients receive a written compilation of all exercises explored in the class.   The intensive six-day program delves deeper into Pilates philosophy and is aimed at both novices and existing practitioners.
 
Guests also have access to the Aman Spa, Amanresorts' first full-service spa with an extensive selection of beauty treatments including facials, massages, scrubs and body wraps. Each of the three double treatment rooms and three single rooms has its own bath, shower, private steam room, vanity and open-air sala for personal reflection. Complimentary yoga and meditation sessions are also offered in open-air teakwood salas set high on the hillside. 

For more information on Amanresorts, visit: Amanresorts

Embassy Suites -- Concord, North Carolina

By Robert J. Nebel

While staying at the Embassy, you can get a great workout at their spacious pool or in the workout room that overlooks it. Like many hotels, the usual suspects are in the workout facility including treadmills, stair-climbers and weights.

If you're looking for outdoor activity, golf is right in your backyard. The Embassy operates the Rocky River Golf Club.

View of the golf course from the hotel window at the Embassy Suites in Concord, North Carolina.

The Lowe's Motor Speedway is down the street from Concord, North Carolina's Embassy Suites.