Description

ACE’s Guide to Pilates Mat Training explores how the six traditional Pilates principles – concentration, control, physical centering, flowing movement, precision, and breathing – set this fitness modality apart and make it so effective.Warm-up and core stabilization exercises are presented with detailed information on appropriate techniques and modifications for various populations and fitness and experience levels. Produced in cooperation with the American Council on Exercise. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you're a true Pilates or Stott Conditioning fan, you may have invested in a reformer, the machine used in Pilates-based studios. This 58-minute video, the first in a series of three, shows you how to use the Stott reformer in a series of resistance exercises to help you tone and strengthen your core muscles and increase flexibility. As in all of Moira Stott's videos, she carefully explains each exercise thoroughly: how and where it works, breathing techniques, alignment, and modifications. First she demonstrates a series of exercises where you lie on the reformer and push the bar with your feet in different positions, moving the carriage. Next you do one leg at a time. Then comes a killer called "the hundreds": an abdominal exercise with 100 pulses (fast reps with tiny range of motion) against resistance from pulling on the straps. Later the straps are attached to the feet, or held with the hands, for exercises that target other muscle groups (while continuing to work the abs and back). Although this is the most basic in the reformer series, the exercises are far from easy. The camera work is excellent--you see exactly what you need to see in order to perform the exercises correctly. Stott Core Conditioning is a contemporary update of the work of Joseph Pilates, incorporating modern exercise physiology and spinal rehabilitation principles. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Clear and patient training
I own a few of Ms. Stotts videos and find them all to be a great source to workout with. She walks you through each step clearly and simply. In this particular video, a handy pop-up screen appears at the appropriate time in the right hand corner, to display modifications to the exercises for your body's abilities. I highly recommend her tapes. ... Read more

Description

Developed by former professional dancer Moira Stott, with input from sports medicine professionals, STOTT 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. The stress-relieving method can be performed on a mat or using dedicated STOTT equipment. ... Read more

Product Description

The pilates mini ball kit Includes mini ball and pilates mini ball workout tape. ... Read more

Description

Classical Pilates Inc. is pleased to feature the individuals whose previous work in the Universal Reformer apparatus series won praise and endorsement from countless studios, certified instructors, apprentices, and students:master instructor Bob Liekens, soloists Junghee Kallander, Jamie Trout, Peter Fiasca.We introduce and wholeheartedly welcome commentator Alycea Ungaro, our newest contributor to the project.This technique film preserves Joseph H. Pilates' original method of body conditioning by demonstrating its purely classical forms.As each exercise is presented,the name and number of repetitions are shown on screen. ... Read more

Reviews (20)

A super video for anyone and everyone!
As a novice pilates student, I would highly recommend Classical Pilates Mat video. The instructors gave thorough explanation, and walked me through each move so that I could appreciate correct form and proper execution for maximum benefits. The instructors' truly convey Joseph Pilate's philosophy, inspiring me not only to adapt a solid workout , but also a healthier lifestyle. I'm looking forward to graduating to the next level at my own pace.

REAL GUYS DO PILATES
I was checking out the exercise video selection at our local B&N, when my boyfriend blurted out that he had wanted to try PILATES. We looked for a good video, but they all seemed to be made for women only. Even though he had heard REAL guys like Danny Glover are into Pilates, those videos seemed silly to him and didn't give the impression that they could deliver the kind of workout he required. We got home and went on-line to see what a wider assortment offered and FORTUNATELY found this one. We knew it was different right away. First of all, there is a GUY on the cover and the INSTRUCTOR is also male. He appreciated that. I liked that it included several workouts on the same tape. SOLD. After just a few weeks of working at different levels, we are now both doing the intermediate and exercising together is FANTASTIC. This is a good tape for anyone no matter what, but what's more, it's exceptional for MEN.

A Real Pilates Workout
My schedule makes it difficult to attend Pilates classes regularly so I purchased several DVDs to work out at home. I was looking for a good workout and this is the best one I have found. Each level of exercises, from Basic to Advanced, flows along in real time so I can work out straight through. The Modified Basic level is great for people just starting out and the Super Advanced exercises are challenging! I recommend this DVD or VHS to anyone looking for a real Pilates workout.

Awesome!
I started the Pilates work out hoping to exercise without being dog-tired afterwards, like when I did aerobics. Then I bought this DVD because it looked like a serious Pilates work out, which it is. I use it faithfully four or five mornings a week and feel energized once I finish. My co-workers noticed the difference in the way I walk and the inches I lost off my waist. I started taking the Pilates class at the Y and I was well prepared for that class from working out with this DVD. It is Awesome!

Worth More Than 5 Stars!
It seems that every few years, we are introduced to the newest exercise method guaranteed to change your body and your life. The reason Pilates has thrived for almost a century is that it works. Although it takes just over half an hour to complete the 34 exercises having as few as three to five repetitions each in the Advanced Mat routine, this workout is complete. Performed daily, even the Basic level 10-minute workout will strengthen your body and improve your posture. Joseph Pilates believed that fewer repetitions of an exercise done properly benefit the body more than many repetitions done incorrectly, and excessive repetitions merely serve to fatigue the muscles and are counter-productive to true physical fitness. While Pilates is good for anybody, admittedly, it is not for everybody. But if you want a total, intelligent workout for your body, mind and spirit, try Pilates.

If you want classic Pilates, try this tape. It is a faithful depiction of the exercise method originally known as Contrology produced by a group of people obviously devoted to upholding the tradition, and represents the spirit and purpose of Joseph Pilates' method with great enthusiasm and integrity. Because the workouts are performed in real time, you are able to use the tape by either working out along with, or learning the exercises from the tape and working without at your own pace. The instructions are comprehensive and the demonstrations are precise and energetic. From a range of camera set-ups, the exercises and transitions are presented clearly and completely. I began with the Basic workout and progressed through the Intermediate and to the Advanced levels. I have received a greater awareness of my own physical fitness through Pilates by working with this series, and I continue to refer back to individual exercises frequently as I advance in my practice. I recommend the book 'Pilates Body in Motion' written by the video's Commentator Alycea Ungaro, as a brilliant companion to this tape, since her work also presents these workouts and echoes the values and standards of this superlative production. ... Read more

Description

Hilary Burnett is a Certified Pilates Instructor through The Pilates Center of Boulder, Colorado.She teaches workshops, classes, and trains individuals.A Northwest native, mother of four, and tofu aficionado, Hilary's passion for matwork shines through in this video series.

The matwork taught in this series is portable, elemental, and empowering.Tune your body like a fine instrument, an integrated whole, working from the inside out.What could be more delicious as a way of fitness?

Pilates (puh-lah-teez) is a method of conditioning that leads to uniform development of the whole body.A blissful departure from adrenaline-based fitness, Pilates exercises are powered by breath, flow, and centering.Hilary's teaching emphasizes neutral lengthening of the spine to support the "elegant architecture" of the body.

Pilates Basics is a foundational tool for anyone desiring to master the Pilates method and move toward Pilates Intermediate.It details the ten basic exercises in the method and serves as both an introductory workout and as the perfect daily mat workout.Includes selected modifications. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Good basic Pilates introduction with strong focus on breath
Although I was already familiar with Pilates via other instructors (namely, Ana Caban's videos and Brook Siler's book), I decided to give this video a try to see how I liked Hilary Burnett's style. The best thing about Hilary's instruction is her strong emphasis on breathing. Although all Pilates workouts stress the importance of proper breathing, I found that Hilary provided more detailed instruction and descriptive cues, making it easier for me to understand exactly how and when I was supposed to take each breath. Another unique aspect of this workout is that it is the only Pilates practice I've ever tried which includes some brief stretches to warm up for and to cool down after the actual Pilates exercises.

The workout itself consists of 10 basic Pilates moves. Hilary sets a nice, easy-going pace to the practice, and she provides helpful pointers about how to perform the exercises. Each move is appropriate to someone at a beginning level, and for some exercises, Hilary offers modifications via an inset on the screen. My one problem with this video was that I found her modifications to be less effective than what I've seen from other instructors, especially for those with limited flexibility like myself. Plus, given the short length of the workout, it is not overly challenging, although I did feel thoroughly stretched out at the end.

The video is filmed in a softly lit, living room type setting, and soft guitar music is occasionally heard in the background. Hilary provides mainly live instruction with additional tips via voiceover. Overall, this is a solid introduction to the Pilates method, but beginners with limited flexibility might want to consider seeking additional resources (a book, another video) for further assistance on modifications.

Relaxing, soothing and effective!
I have tried other pilates workouts (Winsor), so I am not exactly a beginner, however I thoroughly enjoyed this workout. Although it is only a basic workout, Hilary Burnett really takes the time to explain about technique and breathing...this one is not rushed at all!

The focus on breathing is fantastic....I actually felt that I was targeting my core strength a lot more by utilizing correct breathing technique. Other pilates workouts seem so rushed and full of chat in comparison, which I consider to be unnecessary. Hilary lets you immerse yourself into the workout.

The set is very soothing - dimly lit with candles. Afterwards, I felt very relaxed. I can't wait to try out the intermediate workout!

Wonderful Introduction to Pilates
I was really interested in learning more about Pilates, but I wanted to make an informed choice before purchasing any DVDs.

I went to several websites and found that many people raved about this particular DVD. I went to the instructor's website as well before purchasing to learn about her background. Everything seemed wonderful, so I made my purchase and I WAS NOT DISSAPOINTED!

I love this DVD. After a stressful workday, it really makes me feel relaxed. It did not take me very long to progress to the intermediate DVD, which I also love.

Oh, and by the way, I am seeing the results of investing in this series. I have improved abdominal strength and I'm losing inches (I'm also dieting to improve my overall health)!

I haven't mastered all of the moves of the intermediate DVD and that's a good thing-I want to get my money's worth by using this series as much as needed to improve my core strength and overall fitness.

Way better than Windsor
I'd been using the Windsor pilates DVD's but something about her delivery and the bright bright studio, I just didn't like. Also, they were pricey. After reading the good reviews for Hilary's workouts, I ordered the Basics and I really like it. She's calm and clear and I don't feel rushed like I do with the Windsor program. Also, it's only 20 minutes long and I look forward to doing it when I get home - I feel so much better when I'm done! It's been a couple of weeks and I'm moving on to the Intermediate - which still clocks in under 30 minutes.

Good for starter
I think this DVD is very good for beginners. Hilary Burnett explains in details how to breath and what muscle should be used in each exercise. ... Read more

Description

Produced by Classical Pilates, Inc., this film preserves Joseph H. Pilates’ original method of body conditioning by demonstrating its purely classical forms.As each Pilates exercise is demonstrated, the name and number of repetitions are shown on screen. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Do it.
Pilates is the right thing to do, and Classical Pilates is the right way to do it.

Classical Pilates is First Class!
I love it! It's better than the tape I got with my Performer from QVC. I also bought their Mat tape. When I workout along with their tapes, it's like I have my own private Pilates class at home. Bob Liekens is a master instructor of the highest caliber, and the performers on the tape are excellent. They are all very inspirational. Classical Pilates is first class! I highly recommend their tapes and hope they produce more.

"One of a kind"
The Universal Reformer video Series are "one of a kind" accurate instructional tapes of the original Pilates Method as taught by Joseph H. Pilates, on apparatus he designed. I use these videos to compliment the lessons I take with certified instructors. I am constantly learning corrections to my form and movements as I can clearly observe the exercises and listen to the insightful and in-depth instructions. I recommend these videos for beginning students to those becoming instructors. The talented certified instructors who demonstrate these exercises are an inspiration to watch! I look foward to learning these exercises as my physical ability continually improves and expands into more advanced forms. These videos teach you exactly what Pilates is and how to perform the method safely and correctly.

Disappointed
As someone pretty new to reformers, I was disappointed with this video for two reasons: a good portion of the exercises require the additional box--no mention was made about that in the description of the video; also, it is not always clear how many springs you should be working on. I have a reformer at home, and don't have an unlimited budget for extra equipment (the box and pole are not cheap) or one on one lessons with an instructor. (One exercise is even performed on the big barrel--who has that at home??) It seems this video, which I'm sure is sound in technique, is for people who are in a studio environment, not the home user.

Classical Pilates Mat Series is FABULOUS!
I just finished watching Classical Pilates "The Complete Mat Workout Series," and it is fabulous! I am thrilled there is such an excellent video devoted to the ORIGINAL Method as Joseph Pilates created it and all that it stands for. With so many variations on the Method out now, many people don't even know what true Pilates is -- well, this is it!! It is excellent for beginners, because of the clarity and detail of instruction, yet is also wonderful for advanced students, because it contains more advanced exercises than most other Pilates videos do. If you can't take class from a properly certified instructor, this is the next best thing. ... Read more