Pilates for Every Body
Studio: Lions Gate Home Ent. Release Date: 12/20/2005
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars A great workout, with a few things to think about
I agree with many other reviewers that this is not a beginner-level workout, but I also agree with the reviewer who points out that becoming more advanced is one of the goals of working out in the first place. I am a very active person with moderate Pilates experience and I have no problem following this workout. However, it is very fast-paced and contains little instruction on form, which may be frustrating for someone just starting out in Pilates/fusion workouts.
If you have some experience and are looking for new challenges, though, this is a good addition to your library. The moves include classic Pilates (Teaser, Roll-up, Criss-Cross), classic ballet (Releve, Demi-Plie), and some Denise-created variations … it’s a nice blend and does a good job of hitting multiple body parts. The use of the resistance band is optional; I use it most of the time and enjoy the extra challenge. I like that this workout includes a lengthier warm-up and cool-down, both of which incorporate some Tai Chi. Many Pilates DVDs are short on these elements, so it’s great to have them (I even use them as single chapters before or after other workouts).
Now, a few negatives: first, again, the workout is very fast and while every “body” can technically do the moves, not “everybody” will enjoy the pace. Also, Denise’s enthusiasm is appreciated, but she really goes overboard here. It wouldn’t be a big deal if it were just an annoying trait, but the problem here is that it actually disrupts the workout. She gets so busy saying, “You look great,” or “Doesn’t this feel wonderful?” that she seems to forget to count reps (resulting in at least two sets in which one side gets worked longer than the other) and/or completely fails to cue new moves. And, speaking of cueing, be forewarned that Denise assumes you are watching the TV – don’t wait for descriptive cues or, sometimes, even a heads-up that she’s about to change exercises. It wasn’t a big problem once I’d done the workout a few times, but it was frustrating the first time through.
The bottom line is that Denise is quirky and sometimes over-enthusiastic, but she puts together a great routine and reminds you to have fun while working out. Despite its drawbacks, I think this workout is a good optionn for those who have some Pilates experience and are looking for a challenging fusion routine.
5 Stars Enjoyable and I saw results!
I started exercising with this video about two months ago, about three times a week. I feel firmer, taller, stronger and very confident! She works every muscle and is encouraging along the way. ( You will need weights or a workout band ) I had never done pilates before and was relieved that it only took me a few times to strenghten my abs enough to do the harder parts of the workout. It really IS for everybody!
5 Stars Just AMAZING
I purchased this DVD a few years ago and was so heartbroken when I moved and my roommate LOST it! This was the best pilates work out that I’ve ever tried. I do this DVD 3 times a week (sunday, Tuesday and Thursday). The floor set might be tough for some people, but I PROMISE you that if you just stick with it you’ll be very very satisfied with the results. When I first started this DVD a few years ago, I saw results within a month. I naturally have muscular legs and if you do too than this is the perfect workout that will not add bulk. I’m extremely excited to have found this DVD again now that I’ve just had a baby. It really is Pilates for everybody no matter what level you are. If you want a defined waist, toned arms and legs and a amazing abs this is the DVD for you.
2 Stars Super annoying
I have had this DVD on the shelf for a while. I bought it a while back when some friends and I started doing various yoga/pilates videos together regularly. We could hardly get through this workout without pulling our hair out and choking the television set, not to mention rolling around on the floor laughing. Denise Austin does not shut up for one single second. And the stuff she says is completely ridiculous — very little instructional help but lots of cheesy encouragement and nonsense chatter. Eventually we started muting the TV and playing our own music, but pretty soon it found a nice place on the shelf to gather dust. I can’t even remember the workout aspect, except that it was hard for some of us but not for others, but I’ll never buy another video from Denise Austin.
1 Star do not purchase this DVD
This DVD seems to have been recorded, then put on a higher speed and sold to customers. The exercises are not necesarily too dificult to do, but the speed Denise is speaking/exercising at is first, annoying, and second not likely to be followed by any body.
I have one of her DVDs which is much better: it’s called Mat Workout based on the work of J.H. Pilates.
Save your money, and do not buy Pilates for Every Body. Not worth it.
