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 If you want to learn authentic Pilates from a certified instructor but can't find or afford the classes, this DVD will be a great starting point. Don't let the model fool you, this is not effortless and easy. She's got over 20 years of Pilates teaching experience. I've been doing Pilates (inconsistently) for a few years and a 25 min Intermediate workout from this program has me feeling my muscles and breaking a sweat.There's lots of variety here too, even for a the non-beginner. You can choose a lower level if you don't feel as energetic, or a higher one if you want a challenge. Just like a mat class, each "workout" begins with the warm-up of the "One Hundred" and "Roll ups" etc., but after the first few moves (which all Pilates classes at all levels start with) the routines are different. Some are completely different moves, others have only one or two different moves or modifications, but all are different. (I actually watched the whole DVD because at first I thought a few were the same). If you want to learn authentic Pilates or supplement your Pilates classes at home, this is a great program and a good value. It really uses the capabilities of DVD by providing numerous workouts at different levels of ability. It's not just a workout video reformatted. Don't be fooled into thinking that the latest "Pilates based" video from the fitness diva's is what Pilate's is all about. Find a certified Pilates instructor (not the aerobics teacher at the gym) and take a class. You'll see and feel the difference.
Granted I only watched the intro and did the basic and beginning segments, maybe it is different in the other sections, but I could not stand the segments I did do. So much so I plan on exchanging it for something else. First, the person doing the exercises is not giving the instruction. You hear this ANNOYING nasal drawn out [inhale EXhALE]. I may seem like I am being dramatic but unfortunately I am not. I DO want someone to instruct me when to breathe that is VERY important. However, this was just horrendous to listen to. Also, it was hardly beneficial when the breathing instruction began after the exercise was half way through. Instruction needs to begin with the first movement it is needed on not half way through the exercise. This annoyance was also in the counting and again started half way through the movement....one [TWO THREE FOUR FIVE]. Another complaint is that they did not show alternate moves. Yes, I grant them they did show that you can lay your head down on the mat instead of "holding the golf ball", but no other modifications were mentioned in the routine. For instance, if you cant stretch your legs out all they way what is the proper way to modify? This is the only DVD I think I have ever exchanged. Anyway, I am planning on buying Pilates Beginning Mat DVD and seeing if that is any better.
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I was impressed that this had a combination of different levels and times. That is great for anyone who wants to do Pilates and may have different needs due to time or fitness level. I have another work out cd that is in 1,2, 3, 4 miles and it is great you can do whichever one you are needing at the time.
I liked this DVD because of the different levels offered from basic to advanced and because of the different lengths of routines. I can pick levels based on how I feel and how much time I have. I have even used the short routines as a warm up to other exercises. It has a lot of repitition from one routine to the next with a few changes, but for the amateur or not to serious it is a good DVD with proper pilates positioning. It is definately a no frills DVD, but for the person who wants to add pilates to their exercise regime, I highly recommend this DVD.
