Rating: 
Summary: The WORST pilates/yoga video EVER!
Review: This has to be the worst fitness video I have ever seen. I am both a certified Yoga, Pilates, and Spinning instructor, as well as a Physical Therapist, and Austin's technique is dreadful. The Pilates portion is not that bad, but the yoga aspect is shameful. I would try selling my purchase, but I don't want anyone to see the horror! I think I will burn it instead!
Rating: 
Summary: Good Pilates INSPIRED mat workout
Review: I give this DVD 4 stars because I am seeing a difference in my lower abs after using this DVD 4-5 times a week for 3 weeks. Through out my life until now, I have been slender, with a "poochy" lower abdomen. I focus more on workout one, which targets the lower abs. I practice workout 2 when I can't get to the gym, where I do the treadmill and free weights. I cannot stress more that this workout is a MAT WORKOUT BASED ON THE WORK OF JH PILATES. This is not not true Pilates, nor does it state anywhere on the DVD/Video that it is true Pilates. I knock off a star because Denise Austin does use some amusing lines over and over "...your spine is your lifeline... lengthen your legs... beautiful... etc..." which is a little bit cheesy, but tolerable. The workouts flow, and like in any exercise video, remember to do the exercises at your pace. Take the time to review the moves in the first segment that introduces you to some terms. A good idea is to watch the video too (I fast forwarded search on my DVD) to see what is expected of you. For the first time in my life (I'm 33 years old), I may be wearing a bikini this summer... in public!
Rating: 
Summary: Great for alternate days
Review: This is my first experience w/Pilates. While I can't do all the moves, I feel very good after the work out. From day one I never was sore. This is a good program to use between harder workouts.
Rating:
Summary: good for beginers
Review: This is my first time trying pilates. I was impresed that it wasen't too dificult yet still challenging.Some of the yoga poses are rather advanced to be on a beginers video, but you can just sit in childs pose during the harder ones. I have felt a notisable difference in my posture and feeling of well-being every time I do it. Denise Austin is a little perky, but not too bad. This video is definetly worth a try for people new to pilates, although, it helps to know a little yoga.
Rating:
Summary: The Pilates Challenge.
Review: I challenge Denise Austin to take a Pilates session from me.Sincerely, Darien Gold
Studio Darien
Rating:
Summary: Great way to get back into shape!
Review: I was looking for a video to do at home after I gave birth to my second child and found this one. I had used one of Denise Austin's videos during my pregnancies and figured this one would be worth a try as well. I love it! I had two c-sections and this really focuses on getting my abdominal muscles toned. Plus I can do one of two workouts that are only 20 minutes long. I can find 20 minutes a lot easier than some of the longer workouts.
Rating:
Summary: This video is a joke
Review: I've been doing pilates and yoga for six months now and I have never seen a poorer approach to these two types of exercise. Denise does not seem to know what she is doing, nor is she able to explain these exercises to the viewer. I'm not sure why she is so popular, she talks to the camera like her audience was a bunch of 4 year olds and she has poor form in both of the 20 minute sessions on this tape. In the pilates section she does a number of basic pilates exercises and a couple more advanced ones, but her constant breathy and airheaded commentary ruins your concentration and focus on the breath. I was unable to contain my laughter when she would say ridiculous things like, "Thats gooooood, you are like a ballerina!!" And the yoga section is a total mess. She does a poor version of sun salutations with out explaining the movements.
For anyone who is seriously interested in practicing pilates or yoga, you are better off spending your money elsewhere.
Rating: 
Summary: Pilates and Yoga Mix Workout with Bonus Features
Review: Denise Austin's Mat Workout Based on the Work of J.H. Pilates features two workout segments: Mat Workout #1 (all Pilates), and Mat Workout #2 (Combination of Yoga and Pilates). Mat Workout #1 runs for 21 minutes. It features core Pilates exercises such as the Teaser, Leg Circles, the Hundred, and Leg Swings. However, Denise's almost whispered and breathy instructions leave out many details for performing the exercises correctly. The Pilates method focuses on execution, not repetition, so it is essential that the exercises be performed precisely. While Denise explains modifications for beginners, there is no one in her class that demonstrates them for you. The class, also, features people who are well toned and slim, there are no "average" people who are beginners or less flexible in the class. Denise moves very, very quickly, especially in the single leg stretch move of the first mat workout. It is too fast to keep up with at times, especially if you might be new to Pilates movements. The second workout features Yoga moves reminscent of her Yoga Essentials workout. If you are familiar with her Sun Salutations series from Yoga Essentials, you will have no problem with this workout. However, if you have not done these moves before, be sure to take your time learning this segment. It will be challenging for you. The Bonus Features of the DVD include a Buttocks and Thighs workout, Recipes, Trailer, and Pilates Poses segment. The bonus thighs section is not as well produced as the other workouts, it is not polished. For example, the camera is not steady at the beginning of the workout. The Recipes include Island Chicken with Brown Rice, and a Fruit Cobbler. The trailer features all VHS titles, few of the featured workouts are available on DVD. Overall, there are better Pilates workouts out there, especially if you are a beginner. If you are at intermediate or advanced levels, this might be something different to add to your existing routines. Bear in mind that Pilates workouts are isometric workouts. It is essential to complement this workout with cardio and strength training if you want to see results in weight loss.
Rating:
Summary: Most Relaxing Workout!
Review: I have bought many yoga and pilates videos in the past and this is my hands down favorite! I have trouble with muscle cramps due to a previous abdominal surgery and this is the only workout that stretches me, makes me calmer, and also makes my entire body look great! I would recommend this video to anyone!
Rating:
Summary: Great Video
Review: I have several different pilates videos and this Denise Austin one is by far the best. It's good if your just starting out or more advanced.
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