Pilates TV - Beginner Pilates DVD

Advantages: Good length workout with both standing and mat exercises
Disadvantages: Lacking some explanation of moves

...I brought this DVD as I'd previously done beginners yoga and really enjoyed that so I thought I'd give pilates a go.I decided to buy 'Pilates Weight Loss Workout for Dummies' as it was aimed at beginners, and it was only £4.97 from amazon. Pilates is great for toning, as it involves strengthening and strecthing muscles particularly in your midsection i.e stomach, hips and bum. This workout is also designed to increase your heatrate so that you burn more calories than with a tradtional pilates workout. The DVD has two sets of exercises: a 20 minute standing routine and a 15 minute mat routine, which makes it a good length for doing in one go. Although it is aimed at beginners I did think that it moved too quickly in parts. Whilst most of the exercises were explained verbally by the instructor (Tracy Thompson) there were some moves... Read review

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Advantages: Easy to follow.
Disadvantages: None.

...and alignment. The movements are very precise to ensure that the body is working correctly. It focuses on relaxing the mind at the same time as working the body. It is a slow form of exercise which some people find boring. You need to apply yourself, focus and concentrate on doing each movement well. Done correctly it will condition the muscles, tone and strengthen. I used to enjoy the classes at the gym but I would enjoy some more than others depending on the instructor. Some I felt that I could be working much harder, others I felt were at my level, this is why I chose the intermediate version of Pilates TV DVD. I am not super fit but I enjoy maintaining a moderate fitness level by exercising afew times a week. When I first started pliates it took me afew sessions to really appreciate it, I must admit I did find it boring initially. I... Read review

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Advantages: A flexible excersize workout
Disadvantages: You need a big enough floor space to really stretch out in

.... **************************************************** MY TIPS... 1. buy this DVD - you'll make a saving on going to classes 2. get a Pilates kit together - baked bean tins, towels, comfy stretchy clothes, hubbies fishing rod etc and keep the whole lot in one place. I keep mine in the cabinet underthe TV, so now when we run out of Baked beans, my husband knows exactly where he can find them (shame... must find a new hiding place for my pilates kit!!!!) 3. Stick with it and you'll notice changes in your posture, tone, fitness and health almost immediately. You'll also feel very smug about being a couple of inches taller - esp if you are a short ass like me. Pilates is not the be all and end all though, I would also recommend that this excersize regime should be combined with a more athletic excersize such as running, cyclingorswimming - you need to get yourself out of breath as well... Read review

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