Reviews (2)

It will be a nice workout.
I was new to the world of Stott Flex Band Pilates and looked forward to adding some of these Flex Band videos to my library. Only one problem of which to be aware. You will more than likely need the video that comes with her specific Flex Band. I ordered the video only as I already own a variety of Flex Bands. Turns out, to do these Stott Pilates Flex Band videos, you must use a 5 ft. Flex Band. These bands will be fully stretched from the tips of your toes to the ends of your fingers, while your hands are fully extended above your head. Mine were not long enough to perform many of the exercises on her videos and I am having to order a 5ft Flex Band now before I can fully utilize these tapes. Just make sure you have extra long Flex Bands before buying the videos that don't include one of hers.

Good upper body pilates
The flex-band workout adds a whole different dynamic to the normal Pilates workout. In particular, it refocuses most of the attention to the upper arm muscles rather than the core abdominals. After completing this tape, my arms were aching, but I felt like I still needed to work my abdominals by doing another tape. Basically you do a series of regular Pilates exercises like the hundred, corkscrew, single leg stretch, scissors, etc, but incorporate the band to give resistance to your arms or legs. At times, this can be awkward and if you aren't comfortable with the band, it can be a little frustrating when the band snaps off your foot.

To make this a more well-rounded tape, I would suggest doing half of the exercises with the band (the ones you feel most comfortable with and when the band doesn't feel awkward) then doing the other half (like scissors or rolling like a ball, where the band can be a nuisance) without the band so you can work the core as well as the upper body.

As usual, Moira Stott is great, and gently leads you though the tape. ... Read more

Description

Includes flexible metal Pilates BodyRing (14" diameter)with unique body-gripping pads to target and tone key areas of the body,and the Pilates BodyRing Workout video with Ana Caban (40 minutes). ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Ultimate Work-out
For the more advanced Pilates student looking for a challenge, I urge you to order the body ring set. I own probably three- quarters of the Pilates videos listed on Amazon. I love the long lean muscles that Pilates builds, and being a former dancer, I appreciate Pilates' focus on the core. My problem; however, is that while Pilates tones and sculpts the lower body, I felt that I needed something more for my upper body. Many months(and much gym equipment later) I found myself wishing for some way to incorporate the grace and fluidity of Pilates with the strengthening work-out of a machine. Also I found that most Pilates videos, even the more advanced ones, were too easy. I needed a way to improve my practice while challenging my body. Enter the bodyring and work-out video. I found Ana Caban to be a lovely instructor, not too chirpy or annoying, but self assured and graceful. I always look at the instructor's body and form as a hint to what the work-out will be like, and Ms. Caban was true to form; long, lean and,focused.
I like a video that is neither too long, nor too short so that I can fit it in daily, if possible. This video, clocking in at under forty minutes, is perfect. The best thing about it is that the work-out is as difficult as you make it. The resistance that the ring provides compresses an entire gym into a peice of eqiupment that you can take anywhere. I travel often, and find it hard to incorperate fitness, but guess what will be in my suitcase on my next trip? (I just hope I don't have to explain it!)
I felt muscles shaking during this video that I had forgotten I had! I was challenged, I was engaged, and by the end I could barely walk. If that is not a good enough endorsement I don't know what is!

Good variation
I already had the Beginner Mat Workout from Gaiam, so I decided to get the body ring one for some variation.I like the resistence that the ring adds.Even the 100 is a lot more difficult when you've got to keep pressure on the bodyring as well.I can never tell, though, what she means by keeping my knee slightly bent, how far is slightly?And what effect am I going for when I do that?It'd be nice to know if I'm using the right muscles.

This video also offers arm workouts that mat workouts do not have.Though there are not as many arm workouts as the BodyBand video.For a beginner, I would first suggest the BodyRing and then the BodyBands, the bands are more clumsy to use, in my opinion.

Between using this video and the mat workout for a few weeks, I discovered one night that I had ab muscles that I didn't know existed.It was an odd sensation to sit up and feels muscles working that I hadn't even taken notice of before, so clearly the tapes were doing some good. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

a smooth transition from level 1's "The Secret to Flat Abs"
Another excellent Pilates instruction!! Moira truly is the best at instructing you to safely perform the Pilates exercises. I have been doing this DVD for a couple weeks now and it is still a challenge to get through. I still have to do 3 of the exercises how they did it in modified form in the level 1 DVD (I have reviewed that one on Amazon as well :) )but with a little more strengthening of my core I know I will be able to do them the way they are performed on this DVD. Moira again instructs as another is performing the exercises and she doesn't leave you hanging between exercises with idle talk. If you are a beginner definitely start with the level 1 DVD as there is a lot of modified exercises to help you from over-straining your back and neck that will strengthen you and prepare you to be able to do the versions on this DVD. I also love that Moira keeps reminding when to breath in and out during the exercises because it is so important to be breathing properly. Keep up the good work Moira!! I already have the level 3 and 4 and can't wait to be able to say I have completed the whole series!!
... Read more

Description

Developed by former professional dancer Moira Stott, with input from sports medicine professionals, STOTT PILATES CONDITIONING is a contemporary, anatomically-based approach to Pilates' original exercise method. Its neuromuscular resistance exercises safely deliver optimal strength, flexibility and endurance, without adding bulk. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Addition of the fitness circle intensifies the workout
I really enjoyed this workout!I've practiced Pilates for several years now but have only one other video which uses the fitness circle.What I liked about this video is that it was a traditional Pilates mat workout, but adding the fitness circle made the routine even more focused on the abdominal area; I also liked that the circle provided additional work for the glutes and thighs.Moira Stott-Merrithew instructs two students, Miriane and Crispin, each of whom performs the movements in a slightly different manner.

The workout begins with a few minutes of breathing practice followed by some abs prep work without the circle.The circle is then incorporated into all of the classic Pilates mat movements, sometimes holding the circle in your hands, sometimes between your knees, and sometimes between your ankles.A few moves are modified to target a different area using the circle--for example, both leg circles and the saw became hamstring stretches.There are also various movements which target your arms, some done while lying on your back (and still pulling in your abs), and some performed in a seated position.At about 32 minutes, this video provided me with an excellent, full-body workout, and I plan to use it often.

enjoyed this workout
I am a video workout enthusiast, and enjoyed this workout.Moira Stott's soothing instructions is as easy or as hard as you want it to be.Excellent cuing, without bouncy, hyper movements. Enjoyed this tape and highly recommend it.

Ok for beginners
I am a dancer and use pilates to keep my muscles toned and my body flexible. I like Moira Stott who is not in your face but rather calm and detailed in instructing. This video of hers I found too easy for me, though I'm sure a beginner would enjoy it if they like slow, controlled toning. ... Read more

Description

For those who have mastered the essential level mat work, Power Mat workout is a dynamic and energizing new way to exercise. Moira Stott, leading authority on exercise evolved from J.H. Pilates, moves you through a series of 33 fluid and energizing exercises designed to stretch, strengthen and streamline. Ideal for home use and group exercise.Required equipment: exercise mat Length:38 Minutes ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Not what I expected
I am an intermediate level Pilates practioner who has taken a few classes. The description on the cover of this tape led me to expect a fast-moving, challenging intermediate level workout. Instead, this tape turned out to be a relatively slow-moving Pilates practice which would be more appropriate for beginners. Many of the exercises are modified versions of the classic Pilates moves, but those brand-new to Pilates might have difficulties following along, as there is only limited instruction given by Moira Stott to her two students. This workout would be best suited to advanced beginners who want a workout that moves at a steady pace and can be completed in under 30 minutes.

Not Challanging Enough for Intermediate
I bought this tape as an 'intermediate' tape after the very excellent basic intro "Pilates for Dummies". The instruction is first rate w/ Ms. Stott running a very thin male and female model through their paces. While there are new exercizes and more intensity than the 'For Dummies" tape, it was not challenging enough to be considered the next level for my interest. It does work nicely as a straight through program (w/ out having to fast forward too much), but I suggest this as a challenging beginner's tape instead of your next purchase after getting the basics down. I may try the intermediate or advanced tapes of this series, but this once didn't quite do it for me.

Stott Power Mat Workout
Excellent next step after mastering the intermediate tape - two students show clearly how to modify each excercise for your level and body type. If you are already doing the advanced tape this will not be a challenge for you. ... Read more

Description

Ageless Fitness Mind-Body Matwork set inspired by the teachings of Joseph Pilates. Consists of three progressively challenging videos.Modified 1 introduces basic moves.A foundation-building approach focusing on performing the exercises with precision and control.Progressive 2 builds on level 1 by adding more challenging variations and new exercises.Breathing and concentration is further emphasized as you focus on form, control, and quality of movement.Power 3 will help you develop greater strength, flexibility, and core control through added exercises, increased tempo and complexity of choreography.This efficient and dynamic workout provides the challenge as you progress to an advanced level of total mind-body fitness.Music from the Chakras is quiet and enhances the mind-body connection.Exercise band demonstrations are provided as variations to many of the movements. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

A flowing, blended workout
This review refers only to the third tape of this series, "Strengthen," which I found to be a blend of Pilates and yoga movements.The best part of this tape is the way that the movements flow into one another, as the moves are presented in a series of sequences.Each sequence consists of 5-6 exercises, and each exercise is repeated 5-10 times before moving to the next.

Alhtough I liked the flow of the workout, there were several things I didn't like about it.First of all, because instructor Dian Nissen-Ramirez moves smoothly from one move to the next, there are few cues to let the viewer know what is coming next.Similarly, Dian spends little time on instruction.I also was surprised to discover that the workout uses a Dynaband, as this is not mentioned on the box; I was able to substitute a yoga strap, but this did not work as well.Finally, I felt that the sequences themselves were repeated too many times, as I became bored after the first couple of repetitions.

This tape would probably work best for someone who wants a faster paced Pilates/yoga practice and who doesn't mind viewing the video several times before actually doing the workout.However, those who prefer uncomplicated, slower routines should look elsewhere.

Superb video
If you want a fast and furious workout, this video is not for you. But then, why would you be doing Pilates in the first place? The movements may seem slow to some, but they are supposed to be done that way. Fast usually means sloppy.
I have a lot of Pilates videos but this was one of the first good ones. I like how it uses a band too. i have noticed other Pilates videos are now copying what is on this one.This is a good workout for beginners too.

Boring Snoring
I have been to many Pilates classes, and although I am only eight I have been doing Pilates for three years.I like fast and difficult. This was slow and snoring. I was staring at the time bar,praying for it to be over. I found the movements very repetitive and the production values very cheesy. I found myself yellingat the screen telling her to do something different.At the end my mom and I lay on the floor suddenly I popped up and said "Mom, is she sleeping?" That brings us to my feelings about this tape: one big bore!

"Mom is She Asleep?"
This review only covers the third tape in this series of three, so in all fairness, the other tapes might be better. I am an advanced Pilates student, and am always looking for fresh approaches to this wonderful form of exercise. I bought this tape on the srength of the Amazon.com buyer's generally glowing reviews.
I found this tape to be a big dissapointment, from the poor production quality, to the repetitive nature of the routine. The idea of repetion of a series of moves is novel, but I found myself staring at the corner of the screen where the time bar is located, trying to find out how much time was left. That is not a good sign.
If you want a slower paced, comprehensive Pilates workout, I would recommend Jennifer Kries "The Method,Pilates Precision Toning",or for that matter any of Jennifer's videos.
If you are looking for an advanced tape of about the same length as Pilates Mind Body Matwork, I would highly recommend any of Hilary Burnett's tapes from the same Mind Body Matwork series, especially the advanced work-out. It is challenging, professional, and inspiring. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
At the end of Dian Ramirez's tape there is a relaxation segment, that felt like filler. As my daughter and I lay there and watched her for what seemed an eternity, my daughter piped up: "Mom, is she asleep?" That sums up my feelings about this tape: one big snore!

wonderful work out
These tapes have been great for me.I love the way that Dian has no endless and peppy chatter.She is there to tell me what to do and how to do it.The exercises stretch me, work me, and relax me all at the same time.I notice an absolute difference in how I stand, sit, and breathe on days when I use the videos and on days when I don't.Video number one is simple to do.It goes slow and they focus on how to do the exercises correctly not on how many you can get done.Another wonderful thing is that the videos are short-about 1/2 an hour.As the mother of a 3 year old this is perfect for me, I can get up early, exercise and still have some extra time before my daughter wakes up.Since starting these videos I am more mindful of my breathing, especially when stress arises.I have lost 42 pounds as a combination of the videos and a change in eating habits.The exercises are well explained.Even though I was very, very heavy when I started I was able to do every single exercise in video one.As I've progressed I am getting better every day at video two and am looking forward to video three someday.Ms. Ramirez could not have made a better set of videos, I recommend them to everyone.You can use them to get hyped up and get a good workout and yet somehow, when I am stressed in the evenings, if I do them then, I am calm and relaxed afterwards.Excellent job Ms. Ramirez and I will continue to tell everyone about this great series. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Magic Circle Variations
Learn how to use the Magic Circle for a challenging total body workout -- with a blend of traditional Pilates work & modern, dance based developments.Led by marvelous Master Teacher Kathy Corey, three of her many students demonstrate beginners, intermediate & advanced variations of a wide range of Magic Circle exercises.This video exemplifies the creativity and quality of movement that is a hallmark of the West Coast Pilates approach.

West Coast Pilates Magic Circle video
If you are hooked on Pilates and want a great workout, you must get the West Coast Pilates Magic Circle video. It features so many great exercises which offers a lot of variety, challenge and progression in your program.The cues are clear and help to insure that you are doing the exercises correctly.The Magic Circle is an especially great travel gym and since so many hotels have VCRs you can travel with your Magic Circle and this great video and never miss your Pilates workout.It's the best Magic Circle video I have seen.

Best Magic Circle Pilates Video on Market!
This is a total body toning workout.It is amazing.Very simple and easy to follow, but very challenging.Amazing results, especially inner and outer thighs.I got my Magic Circle from westcoastpilates.net and it was very reasonable and of superior quality.This video is a good companion to Pilates Mat-Workout.Highly recommend. ... Read more

Product Description

Strength Training is an important component of a balanced fitness program, strength training is key to creating a strong central core. Lean muscle mass increases your metabolism burning more calories and reducing fat. *Denise Druce workout video set- *Includes three Power Bands with different levels of resistance * The perfect length to accommodate users of different heights * Both upper and lower body exercises can be achieved * Sculpt and tone arms, shoulders, back, abdominals, obliques and legs ... Read more

Description

Eleonora Goya, profesora de fitness presenta su video mejorar la flexibilidad, fuerza y resistencia ... Read more

Reviews (1)

ES PILATES???
Es la primera pregunta que surge, es esto pilates??? Tampoco es yoga, ni estiramientos. Digamos que un poquito de gimnasia light cuyo nombre desconozco. El vídeo no te avisa que necesitarás una pelota inflable, de esto te das cuenta en tu casa! La instructora y sus ayudantes son malitas y con unos cuerpos nada atléticos, por lo que no te motivan a ejercitarte!!! Obvio que NO voy a comprar los otros vídeos de la misma instructora (Eleonora Goya)PARA NADA! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This Pilates mat work video emphasizing "concentration, control,centering, precision, flowing movement, and breathing" is an introduction to thebasic 18 exercises that are the foundation of Pilates. The unidentified instructor is a disembodied, guiding voice giving instructions calmly, explaining technique, but without much warmth or motivation. She guides you through a simplified version of each move, then the goal level, with different demonstrators performing the moves. If you use the video as a workout, keep the remote by your side, because you'll have to pause the video to perform the specified number of repetitions on each side. The instructor explains the technique, but doesn't wait for the demonstrator to complete both sides. This video would be a useful adjunct to a Pilates program so that you're reminded what to practice and how to do the moves correctly, but it's less likely to satisfy youas a total program in itself. If you're taking Pilates at a studio, the video also shows shots of how each exercise is performed using the Pilates equipment. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Do Not buy this video
Not only is it more surreal than anything but its cheaply made.If anything its more of a science fiction exercise video simply because the people are exercising like robots and there is a lady talking to close to a microphone over what you can only imagine is an interplanetary space ship.Pilates is a great way to balance your workout but not in this video attempt.

"Clinical" is the adjective of choice here
This is pretty painful to watch.It is more instructional than "follow along" in format but that's not why it's painful.The exercises are demonstrated by three or four different individuals, accompanied by a voice-over (slow and droning, unfortunately).Low "fun" factor and something I wouldn't watch again.I'd recommend Jennifer Kries' "Precision Toning" for an intro to Pilates that's more enjoyable. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Physicalmind Workout II: The Method and Intermediate Matwork Essentials of Joseph Pilates contains two sections. First is a series of mini-exercises to teach the fundamental techniques that form the foundation of Pilates exercises (such as pelvic bowl, knee stirs, leg slides, and bridging) with close-ups of the body parts performing each movement. Instructions are detailed, focusing on small, precise movements and intense concentration to isolate the muscles and perform the moves correctly. The second part gives instructions for a series of more complex Pilates exercises. The instructor guides you through progressively more advanced versions of the same basic exercises presented in Physicalmind Workout I, plus some new, challenging ones like Jackknife and Teaser. You won't outgrow this workout. This production--with dramatic lighting and baroque music--is also more appealing than Physicalmind Workout I. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Just to clarify.....
This video was specifically designed for teachers in training, that is why workout I and II are the same exercises. This tape is called "intermediate" not for the exercise progressions, but because the detailed explainations regarding muscle contraction, dynamics, etc. are more involved than in the workout I video. If you are considering this video for use as an at-home workout, you might be more satisfied with another product. If you have already been studying the Method for some time, you will find the information on this video helpful and interesting. I enjoyed the video very much, but it was required study material for me, so I don't think everyone will share my view. Hope this helps...

Same ole thing
This is wonderful Pilates video, but it is nearly the same as PhysicalMind Workout I. I was disappointed since I got the same workout in both vidoes, just different people. ... Read more

Description

A Pilates Method is a series created by Noelle, integrating the Pilates method developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920's. This product teaches the Pilates Method using an uncomplicated, easy-to-follow format, with an uplifting, energetic and motivating feel. Noelle has put together programs of her favorite and most proven and effective exercises that get results. The main focus in the series is on Pilates exercises using the Powerhouse: that is the muscles that support the spine, the abdominals, lower back, hips and buttocks. Pilates in Your Pocket is a workout that gives you the quickest way to get the ultimate benefits of a real effective Pilates workout in just 10 minutes! This workout is perfect for when you are traveling or when you’re just short on time! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pilates is the rage, and for good reason. Instead of doing endless, mindless crunches, you can condition your abs and strengthen your back with a method of core conditioning that takes discipline and practice and achieves deeper results. This level 1 and 2 Pilates-style mat work is ably taught on a 40-minute video by Hilary Burnett. She takes time at the beginning to teach the correct alignment and muscle control with simple moves that turn out to be challenging if done correctly. Burnett uses vivid language and analogies to help you understand: Your buttocks are "jelly buns" (to let the abs do all the work), your belly balances a dinner plate, and your chest "knits" together as you raise your arms. Then she progresses into a demanding abdominal series with such descriptive names as "roll like a ball" (but be careful to protect a nest of birds on your belly), "spider legs," and "scissors." Your abdominals will scream! Burnett's instruction and language continue to make the technique explicit: She describes the roll-up as "peeling your spine off the mat," and then lowering down by "replacing it bone by bone," for example. All exercises work the abs and back, and some add thigh and buttock conditioning. The same workout is aimed at the beginning and intermediate Pilates exerciser--beginners do just a few of the exercises, then add on until you're doing them all. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (23)

What?
This video was supposed to be levels 1 & 2 but I must be at level -5. I found that it is mostly watching her do her thing and telling you virtualy nothing. You have to be Gumby to be able to do her stretches. I will have to limber up quite a bit more before I can find this video useful, and it is impossible to watch the screen and do everything she is doing at the same time! Anyway, its not for me, or anyone who is just begining Pilates.

AWFUL
I didn't enjoy this tape at all. She was difficult to follow and the editing was very distracting. I was very disappointed in this video.

A Great Tape
Hilary Burnett takes you through a series of Pilates exercises, which emphasize control, concentration, centering, precision and breathing.These techniques may look simple, but if you follow the tape, you get a very deep workout, that over time will reshape your body and give you more strength, fexlibility and balance.I would highly recommend this video to people of all ages and most fitness levels to begin or enhance a complete-body fitness and training program.

I was disappointed in this video
I have taken mat classes based on pilates since August.I love the workout.I wanted to do it at home also and relied on reviews to choose a video.The people who raved about this one must be friends with Hilary Burnett.She rushes through every exercise and does not give instructions on how or what to do.The viewer is supposed to just follow, I guess.I was able to follow the exercises just because I know what I am doing but would not have had a clue otherwise except to try to follow her fast moves and changes with no instruction.I have heard good things about Jennifer Kries and Moira Stott-I think I will ditch this video and try theirs.

I Don't Go On Vacation Without it
I workout regularly at a local club where I do aerobics, lift weights, and pilates; but often I go away to our vacation place so can't attend my regular classes.That's when I need and use this great tape.I never get bored with it because I hear new thngs every time I play it.I am able to do more than when I started and that keeps me trying to improve.My arms and legs are already fairly strong but all that part in the middle needed help and that's what I like about this tape.I am focusing on posture, breathing, and ab power. ... Read more

Description

A Pilates Method is a series created by Noelle, integrating the Pilates method developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920's. This product teaches the Pilates Method using an uncomplicated, easy-to-follow format, with an uplifting, energetic and motivating feel. Noelle has put together programs of her favorite and most proven and effective exercises that get results. The main focus in the series is on Pilates exercises using the Powerhouse: that is the muscles that support the spine, the abdominals, lower back, hips and buttocks. The Series includes: The Complete Mat Workout-- a 26 minute full-body workout that targets your Powerhouse and gets results! Focus on Abs -- a 15 minute workout that targets all the abdominal muscles to streamline and reshape your abs and waistline. Pilates in Your Pocket – a workout that will give you the quickest way to get the ultimate benefit of a real effective Pilates workout in just 10 minutes! ... Read more