Pilates for P.E.

Shelly Leachman has a story about a new Pilates program for fifth-graders at Anza and Yukon elementaries. Twice a week, they do 30 minutes as part of a test program that is the first of its kind in the South Bay. At winter break, it will be reassessed. One idea is to teach teachers enough Pilates to lead a 10-minute lesson every day in class.

"(Physical education) is no longer about competitive sports and being athletic," said E. Don Kim, the district's senior director of elementary schools. "It should enhance mind, body and spirit, and this is something that promotes that."

Pilates, like yoga, is commonly believed to aid neurological development, coordination and circulation, build body awareness and reduce stress, altogether improving focus, concentration and control.

Here's the story.