Average Rating: 
Rating:  - Wow! What an unexpected surprise!
I saw this video at a local discount store and picked it up on a whim. I didn't expect much, but it was cheap, so I grabbed it.What a pleasant surprise! I use this video regularly and definitely feel and see the results. Michelle Dozios clearly explains and demonstrates every move but is never condescending, irritating or intrusive. She also shows modifications for beginners and advanced exercisers, plus demonstrations of what NOT to do. I'm not a Pilates expert, but I've seen some of these positions before on other Pilates videos, so I'm guessing they're pretty standard. You'll really feel it in your abs. (I think that overall, Pilates is much more effective -- and interesting -- than crunches for toning abs. I know I see a big difference when I do this video regularly.) This is purely Pilates. There's no cardio, no weights. I like to alternate this video with cardio and weight work; additionally, you can skip the ab section on your other videos and use this instead. This is a great intro to Pilates, and you sure can't beat the price. I highly recommend it.
Rating: - Great workout even for the so-called "athletic."
After reading some reviews and having some interest in trying out Pilates, I went out to find an instructional dvd. I'm not much into stretching. Really. I hate it as I find it the most boring aspect of any workout. So, then I heard about Pilates and the use of a pilates maching called the Reformer. Hmm, interesting. Almost a combination of stretching and machine work type of workout. Little did I know that it would be darn near impossible to find a pilates video using the maching without first buying the machine itself. But then I find out that there's matwork. Hmm, well, then I figured I'd try that first to see if I like it, and it's just not another boring stretching routine. So, I came across Pilates for Dummies at the store which was the right title and right price for me.
Now, I consider myself pretty athletic being an avid weightlifter, runner and martial artists. That said, this pilates method is still tough. Didn't know there were other muscles that I never really learned to control under weight training and martial arts training. This workout really emphasizes control and mastery of your "core" which are the muscles of your midsection. And like other reviewers said, it really puts your abs on fire and I already have a nice set to begin with. I like how this workout stretches you out for flexibility but it stil feels like a workout out with its reps and not just static stretching. The dvd itself is simple, but bright and attractive. The instructor gives great advice and explains the methods of eercises clearly. I had a little trouble with the breathing aspect caused it seemed too fast at times or held too long over several reps. I was half expecting it to be more of a yoga like meditative method of breathing. That, plus, when your abs are working it gets a bit harder to breathe but I guess I'll have to workout on that myself. Also, you get both a beginners and intermediate workout in the same dvd for that low of a price? It's definitely a winner for those who are just beginning or curious about Pilates. I'd say pick it up. What have you got to lose except excuses for not exercising?
Rating:  - A good buy for a beginner
I was intrigued with something new to try as far as workouts go. I had tried the workouts that have you jump around and get up on your feet. This one took much more concentration, and it wasn't hard to follow. Only thing though, I didn't feel as though it worked on the abs as much as I thought. You do get a great workout on your upper thighs and lower legs. Overall I really enjoyed it, and I like the fact that there is an intermediate section after you've mastered the beginner section.
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