Rating: 
Summary: Okay but not great
Review: This wasn't what I expected. I'm not sure what I expected exactly, but this wasn't it. And the lady on the tape is ANNOYING! She even refers to her "tush" as if it were made of gold and we should all strive to be like her. If you like irritating, chirpy women then maybe you won't mind. I can think of better workouts!
Rating: 
Summary: Great as far as workout videos go!
Review: This is my only workout video, so I don't have anything to compare this with. I can say that it's been helpful and I do pop it into the VCR every now and then. It helps that there is a choice between the beginner and the more advanced level. I usually do the beginner level and after the tape is done I've had a pretty good stretch and workout. I can't see how anyone could fault this video. It's got my okay.
Rating:
Summary: Great video
Review: This video is great for those who want to start excercising again or for those who do not have enough time and yet want to do some excercise.Understand that this video is for stretching and toning, not for shaping the figure. Ana Caban gives a clear explanation on how to do the moves and at the end you feel energized and not tired at all. It is a very good video and I strongly recommend it.
Rating:
Summary: Great for Starting Over
Review: After spending the entire winter sprouting roots through my behind into the couch, I knew I'd better get moving or risk spending the summer in "swim-shorts". However, as I couldn't sneeze without throwing my back out, I was FRIGHTENED. Ana Caban and Pilates to the rescue! The workout is fun and accessible---and the best part is, you lay on the floor most of the time! It really strengthened my back and abs (com'on--hit me!) and I've since graduated to the intermediate workout and some Power Yoga. I couldn't believe the results. Ana Caban is the best---fully informative without slowing down the pace, encouraging without that false perkiness that makes you want to slap someone.
Rating: 
Summary: Too much attitude, not enough good instruction
Review: If you like MTV, you'll like the quick, artsy cuts of this video production. Otherwise, it will drive you up the wall. This type of production is not good for an exercise video; especially Pilates, which requires even more concentration.Ana is obviously very "into" herself and has a patronizing attitude toward the viewer. Her assistant, "Morticia," follows along diligently. Modifications are demonstrated from time to time but are not consistent or well thought out for the beginner. I am amazed that Living Arts put their label on this video.
Rating:
Summary: I'm a Believer!!!!
Review: This video changed my whole outlook on exercise! I am one of those people that knows I need it, but getting started and staying with it is, well, impossible. This one grabbed me from the start, and I've stuck with it. . . . even moved on to the Intermediate workout.
The amazing thing about the Beginning workout is that it starts slow, gives you modified options, is a very short workout, but you SEE RESULTS within a couple of weeks!! It is true - you feel better, look better and start to have a new outlook in a short period of time.
Advice - - - master this one before moving on. When you start to get a little bored with the Beginning workout, and are doing all of Ana's version of the moves, you are ready for the Intermediate. But be warned! The Intermediate workout is very different. . . . you WILL sweat and you WILL be sore. But in the most satisfying way!!!
One other thing; if you know nothing about the Pilates method, just remember to squeeze whatever muscles you're using in each move. And keep that tummy tight! That's the secret.
I LOVE PILATES; I LOVE ANA; PLEASE DO AN ADVANCED WORKOUT VIDEO!!!
Rating:
Summary: *Warning* Pilates is addictive!
Review: This is the first fitness tape I actually look forward to doing. Ana Caban is a great instructor, but if you can't do the moves exactly as she does, you don't have to feel bad! There is a second instructor on the tape to show beginners a modifed version of the exercises. Then you can work your way up to the "Ana" version. Although some of the moves seem bizarre at first (e.g., "rolling like a ball," "the seal,") you'll feel limber and energized afterwards. It's especially refreshing after an aerobic workout. This is only the beginner level, but you'll quickly become addicted to the Pilates moves.
Rating: 
Summary: A good video, but not for the Pilates newbie.....
Review: I use the video regularly in addition to Pilates classes I attend, and the exercises are nearly identical, so the form is correct. However, unless you're familiar with Pilates mat work, the video will be too fast for you the first few times, and could prove frustrating for the true beginner. If you're among the initiated, even only a few weeks of classes, I highly recommend the video, as I've learned that it's helpful to have such a tool when working out alone for motivation.
Rating:
Summary: Good video for serious beginners
Review: This video is an excellent introduction to the Pilates discipline. Ana Caban's teaching style is simple and straightforward, and she breaks down the exercises so that you can do them at your own pace. Her form and pace is easy to follow - if your fitness level is such that you cannot follow Ana in the beginning, there is a second person working alongside her who performs easier versions of the exercises. When you are ready to progress, there are intermediate and advanced tapes. I have had great results using this tape.
Rating:
Summary: Shallow and annoying
Review: If you work out at all this video is not worth while because it isn't challenging nor does it go into any depth in any of the specific exercises. The video quality is appauling for a Living Arts production-- I have others and they are superb. Quite frankly this video jeopardizes the brand recognition of Living Arts. Finally, Ana's "cutsy" comments about her buns is thoroughly annoying and unnecessary.
|
