Rating: 
Summary: Not a bad place to start
Review: This was my first introduction to Pilates and this is probably a good place to start. You can learn the basic moves that are required by more intermediate/advanced instructions. Denise's instruction was a bit disappointing in that her directions weren't very clear. Often these weren't given until you switched to perform the moves on the other side (leg, arm, etc.)and they weren't very clear. At one point she instructs you to switch ars and legs when all you switch is what arm you're using. I was suprised given what I've seen on her show. However, after practicing 5-6 times, I was able to follow along and begin to incorporate new moves from other sources.
Rating: 
Summary: Great workout
Review: This was my first time trying Pilates, so I found Denise's workout very challenging in the beginning, to say the least. However, after a few weeks, I noticed dramatic improvement in my shape, and people were constantly commenting on how great my legs and abs looked. Now, after practicing the workout for just a a few months,I get complimented all the time on what great shape I'm in. I love this video!
Rating: 
Summary: Focus on Pilates
Review: While Denise Austin becomes completely absorbed in her routine, you start to feel she has left and gone off to workout planet. Ok, so this is about working out core muscle groups and has a focus on Pilates. However, this is NOT a relaxing workout. I found Denise talks way too much and is overly interested in giving the viewer compliments when she should be maybe focusing on explanations and then giving the viewer a break to actually enjoy the move. From the minute she starts talking, she doesn't stop. It is like one of my very long reviews. So, I'm also guilty at times. Still, I just felt overwhelmed with her verbosity. Then, I found her facial expressions and voice to be more attuned to a fast paced aerobic workout (widened eyes are not relaxing for me - they signal flight or fight) and I just could not relax into the moves. Perhaps she is trying to be more expressive and I was looking for a more withdrawn approach. It is like she is playing for the camera instead of teaching the moves. Some of the exercises were just impossible or very uncomfortable. I really think there are a few moves you will dislike intensely. I skipped them. Basically, this is an ok workout, but not at all a spiritual experience. If you are serious about Pilates, get the Winsor Pilates workout. This has Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi moves. It is 45 minutes and requires a very long resistance band. It is for intermediate students who are already in good condition and who enjoy a fast paced routine. Unlike other Pilates exercises, many of these are done while standing, which I felt made them less enjoyable and less efficient. Not recommended as the first Pilates workout you try. This has some creative moves, but I really did not feel I was getting the workout I wanted.
Rating: 
Summary: Increase your flexibility
Review: While this workout isn't really a traditional Pilates workout, it does do a lot to enhance flexibility and core strength. If you haven't done Pilates before, it will take a couple of workout sessions for you to figure out the moves, but give it a chance and keep trying. This tape isn't for those who are already intermediate or advanced with Pilates. It's more for beginners who already have somewhat of a fitness level. But don't let being out of shape stop you from trying. If you can't do the moves at first, there are modifications that you can do instead until you can do the full move. Some moves like a full T-stand are difficult, but easily modified.
Some of the Pilates moves are done standing up, which is a change from most Pilates workouts. And for beginners, the moves will seem awkward. But you will see results.
As usual, if you don't enjoy Denise Austin's chatter, then turn the sound down and just follow the movements. She doesn't chat up too much in this workout though. It's a great introduction to a Pilates-type workout for those just starting.
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