Pilates Workout For Dummies [2001] - DVD (Michelle Dozois - Dir: Andrea Ambandos)

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

Customer Reviews of Pilates Workout For Dummies [2001]

Mumski
London,UK
26th July 2008

Definately not for dummies!
I do feel you have to be a little fit to do this workout because some of the poses are very chaalenging but what i really like is that the program has remained true to the original pilates moves. What i like also is it exercises each part of your body and you really feel it the next day. The moves are explained very clearly and thorougly and its not too slow. Afterwards you feel you have had a real good workout. I highly recommend it.

DLC
London
27th May 2008

Fantastic
Very good execution and delivery, clear and concise for all to use

I would recommend this video for anyone wanting to start Pilates

Chuffy
UK
26th November 2006

This finally fixed my lower back trouble
I got this DVD after suffering many years of lower back trouble and my Chiropractor recommended Pilates. I didn't see myself going to a class so tried this out.
I found the best approach was not to try all the exercises straight away but concentrate on the first 6 or so for a couple of months then gradually introduce the others.

After a few weeks my back improved considerably and I haven't been to the Chiro since. Added bonuses include I no longer suffer with the usual hip/leg aches when jogging and it definitely trims/defines your midsection,this DVD has really sorted me out!

I highly recommend it but as I said, take it easy to start with and build up rather than diving in the deep end.

Dendera
UK
2nd August 2006

Not great - Put me off pilates for over a year
I first got this about 18 months ago, tried it once and stopped doing pilates for over a year. Now that I am a pilates freak, I dug this out to watch again. Now I remember why I was put off.

This DVD does not live up to the reputation fo the For Dummies brand, which became famous for explaining things clearly in every day terms. The host certainly speak in every day terms, but almost nothing is explained before she launches into an intermediate level routine.

She speaks about the surface basics, but no details about just how to do the breathing or the subtle, deep positioning and engagement that makes pilates different and effective. Just "pull in your tummy, clench your buttox, now let's do the Hundred" style of instruction.

The exercises are demonstrated straight off in the intermediate version, with a small pop up window for beginners or more advanced. Ten reps with little info on what the body should be feeling or achieving... then on to the next.

Eighteen exercises later, you are bored, little informed and wondering what all the pilates-hype and nonsense is all about. This video is little better than me telling you "Hey go do some crunches and leg lifts and call it a day."

Not recommended.

S. Haworth
Bristol, UK
31st July 2006

Great idea, shame about the execution
There's the raw materials of a decent workout here. The instructor is friendly and businesslike and explains things well, the camerawork doesn't suddenly irrelevantly cut away to a shot of a fan or someone's ankles when you're trying to see what to do, and it isn't spoiled by inappropriate music.

Unfortunately, I *hated* the little 'tips' that pop up during each exercise, with an annoying 'brr-doing' noise. If there had been a way to turn these tips off, or to choose whether to view them or not (as with the Tae Bo DVD series) I would have rated this DVD much higher. As it is, there's no way not to see them, and to hear that annoying noise, every time you work out. It's like working out with someone with a really infuriating ringtone who never turns their phone off.

Also, it's a small point, but the box claims it includes both a beginners and an intermediate workout, but it doesn't, unless you count the instructor saying 'if you're a beginner just try the first six exercises at first and work your way up'.

I usually feel much less stressed after I exercise, but this DVD left me more stressed. I enjoy Pilates DVDs but I can't recommend this one.