|
 CATEGORIES
 Fitness
Diet Beauty Health Kitchen Household Money Making Educational Automotive Other
|
PILATES CONDITIONING FOR WEIGHT LOSS
Description: The Pilates Method is a unique system of strengthening and stretching for your entire body. Pilates Conditioning for Weight Loss accommodates all fitness levels from sedentary to more physically active participants. Discover why everyone from Hollywood stars to soccer moms have turned to Pilates for a supple, leaner body, with increased strength and stamina.
Reviews (52):
 Tones & Helps Flexibility
Reviewer: Anonymous 12-05-2004
Great instructor, great scenery, great music! I feel more relaxed with each workout.
 More Like Stretching
Reviewer: Anonymous 06-01-2004
This is a really boring video. It is really slow--more like stretching & finding your inner peace. It certainly didn't give me a workout of any kind.
Feel More Fit & Relaxed
Reviewer: Anonymous 01-24-2004
This is a great low impact workout. The movements are explained well & I do feel the muscles working during each session.
 Too Easy & Too Slow
Reviewer: Anonymous 11-21-2003
This workout is long, boring & much too slow. It certainly won't help you with weight loss!
Great For Older Folks
Reviewer: Anonymous 11-10-2002
With this tape,you end up using every muscle in your body without killing youself.
It is ideal for older people & I would highly recommend it!
Too Short & Too Easy
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-04-2003
This tape is MUCH too short & much too easy. It is not a workout of any kind.
From size 16 to a 12!
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-10-2003
When I started using this video, I thought it wasn't working to reduce my body size. However I now see dramatic changes in my waist size--down 4 inches!
Totally Boring!
Reviewer: Anonymous 11-18-2002
Instead of any exercise, this tape just provides stretches & breathing. Even with the advanced version, I could have fallen asleep. There's no way anyone could lose weight with this video.
Good job
Reviewer: A. Brookshire 09-04-2005
It came in a timely manner and my parents are loving their new workout!
 Not My Favorite Suzanne Deason Workout
Reviewer: Yukon-ite OK, USA 08-29-2005
Suzanne Deason does not speak to you directly in this video, perhaps it is her voice put in after the video was made, but I would have preferred that the audio instructions would've been slower to match the pace of the actual workout. I have her "Yoga Condioning for Weight Loss" on VHS and it is excellent. I was hoping this one would be as good, since I now have a DVD player and not a VHS. Guess I need to find another one on DVD.
great for beginners or a relaxing routine
Reviewer: SG Washington, DC 06-15-2005
I give this DVD five stars if you're looking for an introduction to pilates or a more relaxing routine. The workout does not get my heart pumping, though I have achieved results in overall body toning.
I really enjoy this video, though it took me a full year to finally watch it. There are three women who perform the exercises, each at a different level, and Suzanne Deason does not talk (she? or someone else? narrates) so you see her performing the exercises and breathing, which makes it easy to follow. The camera actually focuses on all three; it has been my experience that some videos barely show the beginner or intermediate levels.
The advanced level isn't saying much. I was able to progress to it after realizing how easy the intermediate level is, and I'm not exceptionally trained in pilates. I've been taking pilates classes on and off for a few months.
They go through the moves very slowly, so it gives you time to concentrate on your breath and really relax your body. I really enjoy the scenery and music, as it helps me concentrate and relax.
I would recommend this DVD for those who are looking for a more relaxing workout. What has been working for me is to use the 45 minute workout after I go for a run; the focus on ankle and foot work in the beginning is great for my sore feet, and the exercises in the video really help me relax my body and yet strengthen key muscles.
However, as I said, I have already progressed to the advanced level and am now looking for a more intense workout for the days I don't run. I've been doing MTV Pilates Mix and have been pleased with it thus far; though Pilates Conditioning for Weight Loss has been great as an introductory routine, and is definitely something I will continue using 1-3 times a week.
Props needed: yoga/pilates mat, small pillow (if beginner)
Great introduction to Pilates
Reviewer: M. Stevens 04-21-2005
This is a great DVD to own if you have never done Pilates before. The instruction and the cueing is excellent. The three workouts help your body adjust to the type of stretching and toning of pilates. However, if you want to burn calories and lose weight, YOU HAVE TO DO CARDIO along with practicing Pilates. Pilates helps tone the muscles and adds flexibily to the body. This video helps you find your flexibility level and introduces you to proper breathing techniques. After a couple of months, with daily practice, you probably will grow out of the workouts. But, I recommend it for anyone just starting Pilates and wants to begin a healthy and fun way to tone your body.
 Good workout and great value
Reviewer: Donovan Worland Eugene, Oregon 03-19-2005
I use this and Menezes' book to help me establish a workout and get guidance on technique. This isn't as expensive as the other DVDs I saw at the time and it has three levels of workout all viewable separatley. It is a well structured DVD I like it a lot and I am picky. Now, for those of you that are Pilates uber-freaks that do all the Cadillacs and Reformers and the lot this isn't gonna be tough enough for you. For those that aren't paying oodles of cash to attend a class regularly, this will do nicely, especially with some beginner's experience under your belt.
Great overall toning
Reviewer: C. Mezzetti 03-03-2005
I bought this videao knowing little to nothing about Pilates. The video has 3 levels so you can do the level that suits you best. The narration of the exercises and breathing is helpful. I use this video on a regular basis and my whole body alway feels great when I am done. Keep in mind this is video is for toning and is not a cardio workout. The only downfall is it takes a good 45 minutes to do the workout. Sometimes when I'm pressed for time, I wish I had a shorter version. I may look into the other videos by the same company.
okay for relaxation but...
Reviewer: monera "monera" San Diego, CA 03-02-2005
I bought this dvd primarily for its long running time - figured it would be a good value and would be a tougher workout than some of the shorter dvds. there is a lot of good instruction but much of the time is wasted on "mind-body" connection type stuff that some people might like, but does little for conditioning. also, even the "advanced" instructor (there are three levels presented) did not present particularly challenging moves and wasted a lot of time getting into the next position. if you continue the reps while the instructor is explaining the next position, it would be an okay workout, but would definitely not lead to any cardio benefits. the scenery is very nice but the three instructors aren't particularly attractive, one of whom seemed a bit chubby - which is not very motivating!
Great for Destressing/Relaxation!
Reviewer: Tiffany Cleveland, OH 02-03-2005
This video is great if you want to relieve stress, relax and still be semi-active. I use this video to relax after I have done my workout. The music, scenery and instructors voice makes you feel like your in a wonderland. This video is definately not for weight loss-unless you are completely immobile throughout your life.
phenomenal video
Reviewer: heatherma New York, NY 12-05-2004
I am new to pilates and really enjoyed this video. Suzanne Deason is a wonderful instructor and I was able to follow right along from the start! I am an athlete and normally run and swim on a daily basis. I found this video to be a wonderful addition to my other workouts and really helps keep me toned and flexible. The music is great and the scenery will blow you away. I find myself more relaxed after every time I do this video!!! You will enjoy it!!
Nice foundation for understanding Pilates but...
Reviewer: A. Ryan "Merribelle" Westminster, CA USA 09-28-2004
This exercise video wasn't what I expected, given the title. Normally an exercise program that promotes weight loss is one that burns fat aerobically, by elevating the heart rate for 20-30 minutes. Well, my heart rate wasn't even elevated for five minutes with this Pilates routine, although I got a nice stretch and some body sculpting exercises for my lower body.
So that you have some perspective on where I am coming from here, I am still new to Pilates. I have been using two other Pilates workout videos for more than a month now: Pilates Beginning Mat Workout (also produced by Gaiam) and The Zone Pilates Mat Workout. Either of these two was a more advanced level than Pilates Conditioning for Weight Loss. From what I can tell, the portion on this video/dvd that pertains to weight loss is a short motivational speech tacked on at the beginning, before any exercises are performed. It's all very new-age-y and pretty, with lovely natural scenery in the background and soothing acoustic music. Then at the very end, a voice over reaffirms the mind-body-balance connection to losing weight and making a commitment to a healthier lifestyle...and that's it. Doesn't offer much in the way of practical advice, nor a workout that does more than stretching and toning. You will need to add on your own half hour of aerobic exercises and a sensible diet to see your waistline shrink.
I will say one thing in favor of this Pilates tape, Suzanne Deason does take the time to explore correct breathing and posture, at least more comprehensively than the other workout tapes go into. So my recommendation is that this is one to pick up for a jumping off point to more serious workouts, so that you understand the foundation of Pilates. Just don't be fooled into thinking you're going to burn any fat this way.
Not a workout, only for extreme beginners
Reviewer: "athena179" Oregon 07-04-2004
I found this video to be definitely not for me. I have a little experience with Pilates, so the moves were much too basic. Even if I had no experience, there is minimal cardio benefit and is mostly used for strengthening abs. Even if you're interested in strengthening your core, I would HIGHLY suggest looking for another Pilates or yoga video. The pace for this one is much too slow and I found myself waiting much too long in resting poses for the next instruction.
Very good intro DVD, but you will grow out of it
Reviewer: kris St. Louis, Missouri 06-30-2004
This DVD was my introduction to Pilates. I started with the "partially modified" level (medium difficulty) and after the first few times I was getting pretty good at the moves. Soon I noticed feeling more toned in areas, particularly in what they call the "core", such as my lower back and abs.
However, after a few months I was ready to try the advanced level and was disappointed to discover that, unlike the two lower levels, it's not possible to view just the woman doing the advanced moves on the screen - you have to have all three women on the screen, one doing the advanced, one the partially modified, and one the fully modified. It requires too much patience to hear the instructions for all three levels when I already know what I'm doing. So I am ready to try my next DVD, one that moves along at a faster pace.
In conclusion, I do not think you will be disappointed with this DVD, but you may find yourself outgrowing it. I suppose if you have some friends who have also expressed interest in pilates, you can pass it along to them when you're ready to move on.
Cheers!
Very Well
Reviewer: Jon Karsen "rochas70" San, Diego, CA 06-14-2004
I have been doing this workout for a couple of months, and I like it. You are given three levels to follow. The third is the most challenging. I tried level one for the first month, then I moved to the third after that.
The tape does work well for beginners, such as I. But if you want to see great results, you must reach the thrid level in this exercise. Otherwise, you will be waiting for a very long time to see results.
I exercies on the third level, and evertime I am finished my hips, thighs and abdomen muscles ache for my hard work.
Try it out, you'll see results as you work up to the third level. It is a good workout, and is still very challenging.
Boring!
Reviewer: Eleanor Sundwall "elen" Salt Lake City, UT United States 06-01-2004
If you want a workout video for the scenery, I guess this might be for you. If you also want a workout video for the reputation and work record of the people featured in it, then this might be for you.
Personally, I couldn't care less about how beautiful the scenery is. I just want a good, well-paced workout. This DVD is boring in its pretentious slowness...it's more like a stretching, find-your-inner-peace DVD. But I've got to say, even my inner self isn't as dull as this video.
I gave my copy of this to charity. I wouldn't buy this if you want a workout...only if you want to take a nap or just be at one with the lovely scenery in the background.
Slow Paced Pilates
Reviewer: A. Vegan Ontario Canada 04-14-2004
Being more used to a fast paced Pilates sequence, I was a bit disappointed with this video. This video covered a lot of the common sequences that I'm familiar with but at a much slower pace. The instructions were very clear and there were three different modifications depending on your level which I thought was great. If you're new to Pilates, I'd highly recommend it.
Boring, especially if you've done pilates before
Reviewer: ravenlily "raven_lily09" Yuba City, CA USA 03-31-2004
I have taken pilates classes at my women's gym for about six months, and a while ago I bought this DVD in case I couldn't make classes. That was four months ago, and I have used it two times! I wish I could return it.
The scenery is lovely and the instructor's positions are impressive, but she doesn't do enough repetitions to make me sweat. It didn't even feel like a warm-up--just a nap with my eyes open. My gym's beginner class is more challenging, and way more interesting.
This might be a good way to introduce yourself to pilates, but when you've become better, upgrade to something better.
The Good The Bad and The Ugly
Reviewer: mzkandyonkrome 03-13-2004
**The Good...I am very overweight. I started doing this workout because I wanted to explore some Pilate and Yoga Techinques. I really enjoyed this video. It is very slow and relaxing. Since I have had this video my energy has increased and I am more flexible.
**The Bad...THIS VIDEO IS NOT FOR ADVANCED EXERCISERS!!! It is very basic and simple.
**The UGLY...The only way you are going to lose weight with this workout, is if you stop eating. I didn't even brake a sweat.
This video is a great supplement for other videos but I wouldn't use it as my only workout.
This is a rating for the DVD
Reviewer: Michael J. Austin Portland, OR USA 03-12-2004
Pluses:
1. Incorporates some yoga, especially stretches.
2. Very pleasant voice, unlike most "workout" tapes, which are too "peppy" for my tastes.
3. Three levels of instruction.
4. "Coaching" for selected exercises.
Minuses:
1. Major weight-loss component is advice to pay attention to one's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Workout will not provide much cardio benefit, nor add much muscle mass, so it's hard to see how one can lose weight on this program alone.
2. Many of the exercises are not standard Pilates (as defined in Brooke Siler's book), but incorporate "yoga" variations.
3. Background music is spotty.
Mixed Feelings on this one
Reviewer: Anonymous 02-28-2004
I really enjoyed the 10 minute segment on getting centred and learning the correct breath and form techniques. It has helped me tremendously in all other pilates videos, where this has been overlooked. However i find the excersize portion is very slow moving and uninteresting in presentation. If I had not done pilates earlier, and this was the first tape i tried I would not go back to it. But having done pilates and enjoying it, i understood some of the moves, and I find this particular work out to be especially comforting after a very stresfull day. But its not my workout of choice.
For Weight Loss" doesn't always mean calorie-burning
Reviewer: funniegrrl "funniegrrl" Nashville, TN USA 02-20-2004
There are a number of videos on the market that incorporate yoga or pilates or other systems that have "weight loss" in the title, and these videos always get knocked by the ignorant as not having a cardio component and therefore are ineffective and mislabled. Some even go so far as to use the word "fraud."
Yet, what they don't understand is that people who are seriously overweight DO need that "mind-body fluff" if they are to effectively lose weight and keep it off. Many overweight people have lost touch with their bodies and videos such as this one can help restore that connection. No one would stay that this should take the place of cardio or strength training, that food is not important, etc. But, tapes such as this one add a dimension to weight loss programs that is often missing. In addition, overweight people have difficulty doing the same things that fit people do -- whether it's endurance, flexibility, or simple factors like having extra flesh that "gets in the way" of standard movements. So, routines such as this one often take those very real physical issues into account, perhaps modifying movements or offering more variations and modifications than the average video.
Finally, those who are overweight are often intimidated by "regular" fitness videos. Again, sometimes it's a physical issue -- we cannot do all of the movements. Sometimes we simply need some extra reassurance that something is doable, that we won't be made to feel inadequate and hopeless when presented with a supermodel twisted into a pretzel shape. So, a title that includes "for weight loss" not only tell us that it may take our special needs into account, but that we may feel more comfortable with this approach than one marketed to "normal" people.
A gentle Pilates workout
Reviewer: funniegrrl "funniegrrl" Upstate NY USA 01-29-2004
In this video, Suzanne Deason offers a very gentle, slow-moving Pilates workout. She begins with a 10 minute section called "Creating Awareness" which focuses on form and breath; it's a nice way to get used to the Pilates style. She then moves on to the workout and starts with stretches to warm up the feet and calves. Following this, she begins the classic Pilates matwork, starting with the traditional first exercise, The Hundred. She moves very slowly from exercise-to-exercise, and prior to each new move, she gives specific setup instructions. Suzanne herself performs the most challenging movements (Level 3), while two assistants show modified versions (Levels 1 and 2). The 45-minute workout ends with some final yoga-type stretches.
Although both the slow-moving pace of this workout and the level of the exercises offered (more challenging Pilates movements are not included) would be appropriate for beginners, Suzanne does not offer detailed instruction on how to perform each move. As mentioned above, she does explain how to setup for the exercises, but she provides few guidelines on form, which is vital to the practice of Pilates. This video might work well for those who already have some familiarity with Pilates but want a gentle, relaxing workout. However, both absolute beginners and more intermediate/advanced Pilates practioners will probably want to look elsewhere.
Ocean Scenery makes this Very Relaxing
Reviewer: Rebecca Johnson Issaquah, Washington 01-28-2004
If you are a Pilates fan and you also love ocean scenery, this is one of the best workouts yet! I love the "yoga" atmosphere and Suzanne Deason is actually a yoga instructor who has been teaching for over 25 years. She brings a calming influence and intuitive awareness to the entire workout. You learn to integrate mind, body and breath.
The focus is not only on exercise. There is also a weight management guide (more a reminder than a complete program). Suzanne's philosophy is to regain a sense of balance and then you can use diet and exercise to help you with your weight loss.
We all know that when we are stressed, we munch more and make poor food choices. If you take an hour to exercise each day, you will notice you are eating more salads, drinking more water and basically making better choices because you feel more calm.
You will notice an increased awareness as far as the whole mind/body connection is concerned. You will feel more awareness during the day and the days that follow this workout. It is as if your entire body is more in tune and you have more confidence on all levels.
The scenery is gorgeous and you can truly escape into Maui! Lately, I'm thinking of exercise as a mini vacation for my soul and body. This workout also calms your entire nervous system and gives you an inner calm and confidence on a higher level than most workouts.
First, you are watching just Suzanne sitting near the water and then two friends join her to show you the beginner and intermediate versions of the exercises. Suzanne shows the "challenge" exercises. If you have done any Pilates videos, you can almost be assured you will be able to do the challenge section. I found it warmed my body completely, yet I was not out of breath.
The cueing is excellent and actually, Suzanne is not talking during the exercises, she is talking about what you are doing. It is as if you are just working along with three other students. This approach does take some of her personality out of the workout and yet it made it more personal and calming. So, she is still cueing, but not talking while she
is exercising, it is more of a dubbed over approach.
You need: Pilates Mat or Yoga Mat and Pillow.
The workout starts with an excellent "creating awareness" warm up that wakes up all your muscles. If you have chosen to go with the combined workout (recommended at first so you can see what level you enjoy), you can follow the beginner, intermediate or advanced versions or switch between them depending on your level in that particular exercise.
The Exercises: Foot and Angle Work, The Hundred, The Roll-Up, Leg Circles, Single-leg Stretch, Cross-Cross, Hip Circles, Double-leg Stretch, Gentle Spine Twist, Spine Stretch, The Mermaid, The Saw, Quadraped, Swam Preparation, Lower Body Leg Lifts, Swan, Child's Pose, Bridges, Hamstring Stretch, Scissors, Unicycle, Side-leg Lifts, Side-leg Circles, Inner Thigh Lifts, Bicycle, Double-leg Circles, Standing Roll-up, Cat Spine, Arch Curl, Side Stretch, The Hammock.
The exercises were chosen with the idea that larger bodies would be performing them. Amazingly enough, many instructors don't take this into consideration. The pace is perfect and I felt I could do all the exercises without feeling I had to reach some impossible goal.
The funniest thing was while doing the "Cat Spine" exercise, my one cat was walking under me, back and forth thinking I must be a cat. It was cute. The exercises were all familiar, yet Suzanne does include some variations I had yet to try. Her Swan was more like a swim and I liked that version more. Her roll-ups don't quite go as far over as I'd like, but with any workout, you can change the exercise if you like another one more. There is more foot/ankle work which is always a good thing because most workouts don't focus on this area at all.
Well organized, smooth transitions and comforting environment. Excellent music and ocean scenery was a real plus!
Recommended for Pilates & Yoga fans who love well organized and highly effective workouts.
Good Low Intensity Work Out
Reviewer: Rebecca Johnson 01-24-2004
For people who are looking for a low impact workout, this is the one for you. As for weight loss, well, I don't think I've used it long enough to see results. I just started using it last week. But I do feel the muscles working whenever I would do the poses. It has modifications so you don't have to do the full forms right away. It's not as intense as the Winsor Pilates program and is very relaxing. Every movement is explained thoroughly. I'm not a pilates expert so I can't say I know that this program is authentic. However, I do know that I feel more fit and relaxed every time I do this workout.
I lost almost 20 pounds with this tape!
Reviewer: A. Lewis Seattle 01-22-2004
I am incredibly amazed that reviewers can claim that you will not lose weight with this tape! Am I just imagining that I've lost all these pounds? I hated exercise after too many Jane Fonda/Richard Simmons viewings and ended up going from 110 to almost 130 pounds( I'm only 5' 2"). Within my first three weeks of using this tape two or three times a week (I actually looked forward to working out), I dropped over 10 pounds. Now, I am actually in better shape than I was in high school and weigh less as well - after losing at least 18 pounds and 2 dress sizes!
If you are already deeply involved in Pilates this may not be the tape for you. If you aren't, this is a good place to start. Of course, you cannot lose weight with exercise alone - you have to become more aware of what you put into your body and whether or not it is healthy. Suzanne Deason emphasizes that you must make changes to your mind before you can change your body. The instruction is easy to follow, and though it has a very mellow vibe my heart rate did elevate and I know I was getting a workout. It is quite important that you concentrate on your form during the movements, so that you may get the full benefit from the exercises. Eventually, after working through the intermediate and advanced poses I found that I did need a more strenuous set (first I worked in extra reps and then I moved on to the Intermediate Pilates mat
Great for a beginner
Reviewer: Anonymous 01-21-2004
This dvd would be great for a beginner, or for someone who's looking for a workout that's not too intimidating, but I was hoping for something more intense. It never really got my heart rate up and I never felt too challenged. I use this workout when I'm feeling a bit run down or when I need to relax, but still get a workout. I do appreciate her focus on breath and body awareness. Also, if you know some pilates parts of this dvd can drag. I knew a lot of the exercises in the dvd, so I was a bit bored at times, listening to the explanation of each exercise.
This is Toning, NOT weight loss
Reviewer: "patricialaird@yahoo.com" Tampa, Florida 01-20-2004
Pilates conditioning for weight loss is great if you are into the whole yoga/pilates thing. The atmosphere is very relaxing with beautiful scenery. It is very easy to follow along and it has three different people doing three different difficulty levels which is very helpful if you want to add more difficulty to certain moves. It is an excellent toning workout for a moderatley fit person. I don't see how this is designed for weight loss because an overweight person like myself can not physically do half the moves. There is NO cardio involved here at all. This is definately not for someone who is looking to lose weight in a timely manner. I would recommend a cardio work out to lose weight and the pilates for toning.
Dont waste your time....
Reviewer: Lori Pittsburgh Pa 01-15-2004
This title is very deceiving. It is slow moving and I dont feel that it will do much for weight loss. The background is beautiful and the music is relaxing but if you are looking for a workout this isnt the DVD for you. The workout is long and boring and the instructors pause too long between exercises. This is more for someone who wants to tone up or is into yoga. I would recommend something a little more involved if you are looking for a weight loss DVD.
Wish I could return the tape
Reviewer: Anonymous 01-09-2004
This tape was a total waste of money. Through the whole 60 minutes, I kept thinking this was a warm up and that we'd be getting to the challenging stuff soon. I get more exercise getting off the couch for a snack!! I began with the Method Pilates tape for toning with Jennifer Kries. I thought that one was kind of lame too but I got way more of a workout than with this one.
Somewhat disappointing
Reviewer: Anonymous 11-21-2003
I purchased this DVD assuming it would be a step further in difficulty from Ana Caban's Intermediate mat workout. I was disappointed. This workout is too easy and too slow. I don't have time to do such a long boring slow workout. I would recommend something else if weight loss is your goal.
Best ever
Reviewer: Robert C. Pence Belleville, Il. United States 11-10-2003
I have used a lot of exercise videos, this is the best ever. For one thing she gives you time to think. You use ever muscle in your body, without killing youself. Best ever for older people. I would recomend it for every one.
Disappointed
Reviewer: "dhr96" Henderson, KY United States 10-07-2003
I am somewhat disappointed in this DVD. I take a Pilates class and this program doesn't do many of the exercises my instructor does. She also doesn't explain what the exercises are for as well as not reminding you to breathe. She does say inhale-exhale, but I need someone to just say "breathe". I think this would be a good beginning workout for someone who hasn't taken a class. She does the same exercises for each level and just modifies the positions to make them harder as you get stronger. While this aspect is good, it can also be boring after a few times. I would have liked to have more workouts available for the price I paid.
Hardly worth the time spent
Reviewer: Anonymous 09-30-2003
This is truly for beginners. Didn't even break a sweat. Way too much detailed instruction, not enough workout.
Boring Boring Boring!!!!!
Reviewer: Alex London 09-08-2003
The exercises on this video are very good but that is masked by Deason's boring presentation. I had to put all my effort into trying to stay awake! I have no doubt that any beginner viewing this workout would be totally turned off by pilates and would never try again (which is a shame, because pilates is great for toning the body and losing weight). Try Ana Caban's videos instead. She is highly energetic and makes pilates fun (and effective).
This is NOT going to help anyone lose weight
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-08-2003
This also is not for someone looking for a challenging workout, or for someone who is not woo-woo. I was looking for something to really make me sweat and feel the burn. This video has you doing foot circles and the like.
Also, I just can't get past her telling me to breathe out of my feet. I am sorry, but anatomically your only two options are your nose and your mouth, unless you have a sucking chest wound. Feet are just not an option for exhaling. However, if you are the kind of person who likes this sort of visualization, well, you just might like this tape.
Okay if you are looking for a relaxing workout
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-06-2003
The first 10 minutes of this video are spent talking about body, mind and spirit and how we have to have balance between them to lose weight and get in shape. It also touches on breathing techniques, which are easy to figure out. I usually skip this part, but I do the warmups, which are kind of fun. The exercises are for the most part, not very challenging, but it is still a good workout if you focus on quality of movement rather than quantity.
As far as the weight loss goes, it's not going to happen unless you cut calories as well. I am still waiting to see if I can lose inches without losing pounds!
Not hard enough
Reviewer: Anonymous 08-04-2003
This workout was too short and too easy. I guess I chose badly, but it was hard to tell just how much of a workout it gave you by the description. There wasn't even a workout time on the back cover. I've been using a tape that is far more advanced than this up to now and was looking for something more challenging. Oh well!
good workout, bad name
Reviewer: Hillary Salt Lake City 07-26-2003
this is a good workout, but the name is misleading. YOu have to have more cardio and better nutrition to lose weight, and this is not emphasized enough in her routine. Deason is ok, but i think other Pilates vids are better.
5.5 inches, 3 months
Reviewer: Anonymous 05-10-2003
What else can I say other than this video is AWESOME! I started using this in March or April, and at first I thought it wouldn't do anything. YEAH RIGHT! The first time I used the video, I KNEW that I had hips! I started out wearing a size 16 with a waist of 36, now I'm in a size 12 with a waist size of 30.5!! My hip size has dropped 3 WHOLE inches, as well as most everywhere on my body. It's INCREDIBLE!
Disappointing
Reviewer: "coolzephyr" MI USA 05-08-2003
After really enjoying increased flexibility plus a great workout from "The Method Pilates - All in One Workout" and "Denise Austin - Pilates For Every Body", I was *sure* that I would enjoy rotating them with this new one while also burning enough calories to encourage weight loss. But this DVD is so low-key I barely ever put use it anymore. After purchasing this, I bought "A.M. And P.M. Pilates Mat Workouts" and that one is fantastic for those mornings where I'm tired or short on time, and at night I make up for it with the more intense P.M. workout.
So... it sounds as though people wanting purist Pilates will find this DVD welcome. But for those wanting "Conditioning for Weight Loss"... it didn't live up to that claim in my opinion.
OK, but I'd buy something else
Reviewer: "thomas22853" Boulder, CO USA 05-07-2003
I thought this was a decent workout, especially for a beginner like me, but I was a little disappointed because of the following:
1) The workout was a little on the easy side, and too short.
2) The different workout levels only vary slightly - they're effectively the same workout but different people are doing slight modifications. So, you're really only getting one ~30 minute workout here.
3) The "weight loss" part of this is pretty thin - a bunch of "mind-body" fluff that if you just take control of your life blah blah... If you do this workout *exactly* I seriously doubt you're going to lose much weight - it's not aerobic enough.
4) There was virtually no attention paid to the upper body.
If you like Suzanne Deason I would point you to her balance ball DVD (which incorporates some Pilates or at least Pilates-inspired elements), which is much more of a workout and a much better
Mind/Body Connection
Reviewer: TerriLin Pistorius Sacramento, CA 04-22-2003
I have been a pilates student for some time now, and am going to begin my certification this summer. The best thing about this DVD (and I think the thing that most people miss) is the way it teaches you to be more in touch with your body. I've read some of the reviews and people have made comments like, "I don't feel like I've gotten a workout", or "I haven't lost any weight". Those folks are missing the point entirely. The instructor cues well and moves at a methodical pace. There's no heart stopping, Denise Austin style aerobics in this workout. If you focus on your form and the excercises, you will get a very nice all over workout, feel refreshed AND hopefully begin the process of connecting with your body so that you do make better choices about your overall health and fitness. For those of you interested in "feeling like you've worked out" try running or weight lifting on the days you don't do pilates.
Slow and boring... and won't do anything for weight loss.
Reviewer: Anonymous 02-05-2003
I did this tape once before I'd ever taken a pilates class. I found it slow, boring, and confusing. After I took a few pilates classes I returned to it to see if perhaps I'd like it better. I had to shut it off at the 40 minute mark because I was bored and unchallenged. Other than a few key moves (such as The Hundred) you could pretty much throw this tape out the window. I can't see how this tape will help you loose weight.
Borrrrringgg!
Reviewer: Anonymous 01-22-2003
Of the Pilates tapes I have (Ana Caban, Jillian Hessel and The original Complete Pilates Studio Mat Workout tape with Romana Kryzanowska, Deason's tape is the most tedious.
I used it once and put it in a drawer.
I understand the need for different levels of instruction, but the detailed instruction for all levels during the ACTUAL workout, and the endless, meaningless imagery (do WHAT with my ribs???) make for a dull pace and an ultimately unfulfilling workout.
The Pilates Studio tape handles this by dividing itself into three distinct sections, eliminating the need to sit through instruction that is not suitable for your level.
And, while some complain that Caban's explanations are too simplistic, she does manage to get the idea across in a refreshing, easy to visualize way. She also explains the different levels at the BEGINNING of the tape. Her new Pilates PM workout tape is a vast improvement over her Pilates Intermediate level tape, both in production quality and the quality of instruction. Hessel's Pilates AM tape is a bit lightweight-- it leaves out a LOT of the routine, but it's a pleasant way to ease yourself into the day.
Get the Pilates Studio tape if you can. It's not very lively but EVERY Pilates exercise is there and it's all done correctly. It's a must for any Pilates enthusiast.
I like it.
Reviewer: Anonymous Anna, Illinois 03-13-2006
I think it's great for those who want to tighten up their bodies. If you do this eveyother day and an aerobic work out on the day your not doing pilates then pretty soon your body is not just thinner but more together and not so flabby. It's Great!!!!
Average Reviewer Rating:
Add my review on this item
|
|
