Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #11566 in DVD
• Released on: 2005-12-26
• Rating: Exempt
• Format: PAL
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 35 minutes

Amazon.co.uk Review
Pilates Workout for Dummies is a 60-minute programme, ideal for both the first-time and intermediate Pilates exerciser. In the Basic Workout, well-toned instructor Michelle Dozois clearly and patiently presents 18 classic Pilates mat exercises, first demonstrating and explaining, then doing six to 10 repetitions. She explains what the Powerhouse is and how to use it, and covers the basics you'll need if you've never done this before (or need to be reminded), offering alignment tips, breathing, and extremely clear instructions for executing each movement. Dozois suggests modifications for making the exercises easier (or, occasionally, more challenging), and includes cautions against common mistakes and reminder tips for doing each exercise effectively. This is a fine first workout for Pilates novices. The Intermediate Workout consists of some of the Basic exercises and several new ones, all done at a faster pace and with more challenging instructions. --Joan Price

Special Features
English
Region 2

Synopsis
The Pilates Method is one of the fastest growing trends in modern fitness. Developed in the early 20th century by fitness expert Joseph Pilates, the method offers an unparalleled way to reshape one's body. PILATES WORKOUT FOR DUMMIES eases newcomers into the method with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for 18 strengthening, lengthening, and toning mat exercises essential to every Pilates workout.

Customer Reviews

Wonderful introduction to pilates
Although I am new to pilates, I have tried the Stott Essential Matwork (2nd edition). Not only did I fall asleep while watching the video first, I found on my only attempt at doing the exercises that I aggravated a pre-existing knee injury. I immediately stopped using the Stott video and purchased the Dummies Workout after reading reviews on this and the US site.

Wow, what a difference. The Dummies tape is not as slow as some people think. It is definitely more enjoyable. Michelle explains each move clearly first and then does a run-through before the viewer joins in. This way you get to see what position your body should be in. She is very encouraging and tells the novice to try only the first five (of the eighteen) exercises until they are comfortable. Because of this, I did not feel compelled to push myself unnecessarily to complete the workout.

Also at 35 minutes this is a comfortable amount of time to excercise, so you do not feel pushed for time. This DVD is chaptered which means each exercise is conveniently available individually, so you can do as many or as few as you like or go back and repeat one you were not sure of.

If anyone is looking for a pilates dvd to begin with - this is the one. Don't hesitate - buy it. You won't regret it.(No I'm not on commission! LOL).

A Dummie no more!
I was sceptical at first, having only ever gone to classes for aerobics and the like. I thought I was going to be put off by the idea of a DVD for the pilates way. In fact I have been really suprised at how enjoyable the experience was....not too patronising and a great introduction. The workout only takes about 40 mins, but the exercises are well explained, follow sensibly from one to the next, and the pace is good for a complete novice. I can see me needing another DVD in the future (say a few month off) once my muscles are used to this routine, and the exercises are familier. The really glaring gap in this DVD is a simple once through the workout without all the explanation, tips and jargon.....that would get it a 5 star. Be prepared to be a little frustrated once you know the routine as each time we go through the how to set up again.

Great for a first timer though, and Pilates does what it says on the tin!

A Complete Novice!
As a complete newcomer to Pilates, I read all the reviews for all the Pilates DVD's available and this one seemed to be the best one. The only thing that was commented on was its slowness. However, if you are a complete beginner like me, slow is good. Once I've got the hang of the exercises I'll probably move onto a DVD with a faster pace but at the moment I need the slow instruction.