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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:43:29 GMT
Keeping Fit Pilates
Andrea Metcalf
Year Released: 2010
This review is for Andrea Metcalf's three workouts: Keeping Fit Cardio, Keeping Fit Pilates, and Keeping Fit Strength. I just didn't have enough to say about each on individually! :-)
Cardio: The cardio was basic, low impact, and a lot of fun. Another reviewer compared this to Petra Kolber or Chris Freytag, and I concur. There was a great deal of toning (side squats, lunges, etc.) but still enough cardio to make you feel like you got a good workout!
Pilates: While I really like the idea of Pilates, I find many Pilates workouts to be ... well ... boring. This was a very happy exception! Andrea's matter-of-fact personality and non-traditional moves made this feel more like a low-impact toning workout rather than a traditional Pilates workout. I enjoyed this one and can definitely see it being a regular part of my workout routine.
Strength: The strength workout includes both standing and floor work. There are a lot of compound moves (squatting while lifting dumbbells overhead) and some really good arm work. I had to pause the DVD a few times to get some water! The floorwork includes planks and several interesting variations on the planks. Finally, you are rewarded for all of your hard work with a wonderful stretch.
Music/Setting: The setting is the same for all three workouts -- bright and airy. It looks like someone's modern living room (i.e., the staircase and stark plant behind here), very neat and clean. The music was very good. No "thump-thump-thump" stuff (that I normally like, LOL!), but some nice vocals, some occasional drums ... interesting enough to notice, but not to distract.
Instructor Comments:
Andrea has a really pleasant personality, and I hope she puts out more workouts!
Debbie J
05/10/2011
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:44:51 GMT
Just B Live! Pilates Express
Bernadette Giorgi
Year Released: 2012
This DVD was my first experience with Pilates instructor Berndadette Giorgi. I was mainly interested in this DVD because it offered three short routines; I like to do Pilates as add-ons, so this was perfect for me. As the title suggests, Giorgi teaches these classes live: she is on a platform in front of 2-3 students with a mural of a nature scene behind her. Although she uses a different piece of equipment in each workout (as well as added dumbbell in the ring routine), Giorgi stresses that the props are NOT necessary (it would have been nice if one of the participants had showed modifications without props, but this does not occur). I found the music a bit odd, as it sounded like the theme to a cheesy 80s TV show, but once we got going, I mostly didn't notice it.
The Main Menu provides the option to choose one of the three workouts. I have given an overview of each below.
STABILITY BALL (22.5 minutes)
Giorgi cautions not to have the ball overfilled for this segment. She begins seated, started with simple breathing and then using the ball for some side and rear stretches. Coming down to the floor, she places the heels on the ball for some v-sit work and bridge hovers--the latter progresses into a bridge with kick, a challenging move that I could not do! She also does work with the ball between the calves, such as leg lowers and crunches. In addition, Giorgi holds the ball in her hands for roll-ups, half v-sits (tough!), and scissor kicks. One of the final moves is roll-downs with the feet back on the ball, and then Giorgi finishes seated with saw and mermaid stretches.
RESISTANCE TUBE (25.5 minute)
I've done Pilates with a resistance band before, but this was the first time I've used tubing, and I liked it better; the handles make the tubing easier to control than the band. Giorgi again begins seated with breathing, stretching the neck and shoulders and then using the band to perform additional arm and neck stretches. Placing the feet in the handles of the band, she moves through a series of exercises, including leg lowers and alternating kicks. With one foot in the band, Giorgi does side leg drops and pelvic lifts. Next, she holds the band around the feet for situps. Returning to the feet in the handles, Giorgi completes frog and scissors; the band then goes back under the feet for swan and bicep curls. The final seated stretch mainly targets the shoulders from this position.
PILATES RING (28 minutes)
Giorgi mainly uses the ring during the first half of this routine; for a few moves, she suggests the option of adding a 2-4# dumbbell. The brief warm-up includes breathing and shoulder rolls. Giorgi then places the ring between the legs (just above the ankles) for the Pilates 100 and leg drops. Moving the ring between the knees, she performs pelvic raises. Then, returning the ring to between the ankles and adding the optional dumbbell behind the head, she goes into a crunch series. Following this, she holds the ring between her hands for single and double leg circles. Again using two props, she performs roll downs, and then no props are used for rolling, balance leg lifts, and the saw. Continuing without the props, Giorgi concludes this routine with the side series (little circles, up/down, big circles, mermaid stretch) and final stretches (butterfly, saddle), ending with breathing.
For the most part, I enjoyed these workouts. I exercise daily and consider myself to be at about an intermediate level in Pilates, and these routines were just about right for my level--although some moves, especially in the stability ball workout, were too tough for me. Giorgi provides very good form pointers, but she doesn't offer much in the way of actual instruction, so I would not recommend this DVD for Pilates beginners; these routines seem to be designed for those at an intermediate level or above. Overall, I would recommend this DVD.
Instructor Comments:
I liked Bernadette's instruction, as I found her to have a pretty laid-back vibe. She also provided mirrored cuing, which was nice. As noted above, her instruction is not detailed enough for beginners, but even as someone who is experienced in Pilates, I found some of her form reminders to be helpful.
Beth C (aka toaster)
10/06/2013
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:45:35 GMT
Hot Body Cool Mind - Level 1
Jennifer Kries
Year Released: 2006
This is a new video by Jennifer Kries, a ballet-trained fitness instructor who is well-known for her The Method Pilates videos. Here, Jennifer takes some elements of her past workouts--ie, combining Pilates and dance--and adds a new element, the concept of Yin (cool) and Yang (hot). Thus, the workout segments on this DVD are designed mainly to relax, energize, or both. There are a total of 7 different workout styles, each of which are Yin or Yang; Jennifer has combined these into 7 premixes, or you can choose to mix and match on your own, which is what I did.
Here is the main menu for the DVD:
*Welcome to Hot Body Cool Mind
*Full Life Force Workout
*Life Force Workout Segments
*Hot Body Cool Mind Workout Combinations
*The Yin Yoga and Meridian Theory Integration
*Credits
*About Jennifer
As I mentioned, I didn't try any of the premixed workout combinations, as most were a bit too lengthy for me (2 of the 7 were 30-40 minutes, the remainder were 55 minutes and more, up to 91 minutes). When you select the option for the individual segments, the breakdown is as follows (note: the times are all as given on the DVD insert, and the 5 segments labeled "on the go" are less than 20 minutes each):
*Waking Energy Introduction
*Waking Energy "Before You Begin"
*Waking Energy Sitting (17 minutes) -on the go
*Waking Energy Standing (13 minutes) -on the go
*The 5 Tibetans Introduction
*The 5 Tibetans (9 minutes) -on the go
*Pilates with Introduction (34 minutes)
*Pilates without Introduction
*Yoga Intro
*Yoga (22 minutes)
*Ballet (18 minutes) -on the go
*Jazz (14 minutes) -on the go
*Yin Yoga and Meditation (21 minutes)
Okay, now I will provide my impressions of each of the above:
Waking Energy Sitting. This was a unique seated warm-up based largely on Chi-Gong. Jennifer focuses on awakening chi, or life-force, from rubbing the hands together to actually slapping and punching the body (she provides detailed instruction on this both during the DVD and in the accompanying booklet to insure that it is pleasant). Self-massage is also performed, and Jennifer says that this segment is intended to provide spinal mobilization. Overall, I found it to be pleasant, but that's about it.
Waking Energy Standing. This segment is also based on Chi-Gong as well as Makko-Ho (active meridian stretch). Performed standing, I found it to be more energizing and stretching than the seated version. I think this segment would make a nice wake-up to start the day.
The 5 Tibetans. These 5 exercises are known as the "Rites of Rejuvenation;" they are practiced by Tibetan Monks and are supposed to stimulate the chakra system to provide age-defying benefits. Some of the moves are recognizable from yoga, such as camel pose and down dog, but all are performed in a series of flowing repetitions with breath. The goal is to work up to 21 repetitions, but Jennifer does only 7 of each here. Despite my prior experience with both yoga and the 5 Tibetans themselves, I found it a bit difficult to keep up with Jennifer's fast pace, although she does instruct you to relax with two full breaths between each exercise set.
Pilates. This segment starts with an overview with basic Pilates principles such as breathing and form. This is a must if you are new to Pilates, but if (like me) you have prior Pilates experience, you can go directly to the version without the introduction (about 28 minutes). Jennifer leads a fairly standard mat practice which mostly follows classical Pilates sequencing, although she adds some stretches, decreases the repetitions, shows modifications, and performs only 3 of the series of 5. This is definitely a beginning-level Pilates workout, although I found there to be some good form reminders included.
Yoga. Again, this is a pretty standard vinyasa flow yoga practice. Jennifer begins with sun breaths and then goes into two rounds each of sun salutation A and B. Standing postures include warrior 2, triangle, tree, and wide-legged standing forward bend; seated poses are supine boat, child, table, seated forward bend, and sage twist. The practice finishes with a final down dog and forward bend before rolling up to standing (there is no final relaxation). Although not ideal for someone with no prior yoga experience, this segment would probably be doable after reviewing both the introduction and the practice before attempting them.
Jazz and Ballet. I'm reviewing these two segments together because I found them to be similar as well as my least-favorite aspects of the DVD. Although these two dance styles are intended to provide some cardio, I found both to be too slow-moving to significantly raise my heart rate. I also found it very difficult to follow Jennifer's cueing in both sections: she does not mirror-cue, so it's very easy to get confused left vs. right, and in both workouts, she uses many different ballet terms without explaining ahead of time exactly what these exercises involve. As a result, I needed to watch my television constantly during both segments and had to try very hard to match what Jennifer was doing as closely as possible. She also puts together little combinations; these were a bit easier to follow in the Ballet workout, as in the Jazz workout, you do not even know that you are doing a combination until Jennifer tells you to go back to the beginning. Those who enjoyed Jennifer's dance instruction in her prior The Method series might like these segments, but they didn't click with me at all (and I do generally enjoy dance workouts).
Yin Yoga and Meditation. This is much different from the previous yoga segment: the concept behind yin yoga is to perform just a few yoga poses held for very long periods, up to 15 minutes or more. Jennifer calls this the "un-workout" and talks about how each posture is designed to stretch the meridians of the body (for more on this, you can check out the "Theory Intergration" segment from the main menu, where Jennifer interviews a shiatsu practitioner). Jennifer does NOT hold the postures for the recommended length in this segment; instead, she encourages you to hold the poses longer on your own or to complete approximately 10 breaths here. The postures are performed entirely on the floor and include cobbler's pose, seated forward bend, child's pose (Jennifer recommends performing this between all of the postures but only shows it the one time), wide-leg seated forward bend, thread the needle, reclined twist (aka revolved stomach pose), savasana (relaxation), and final meditation.
In summary, this is generally a very well-done DVD with a variety of practice otpions. Although the DVD case suggests that the workout is appropriate for all levels, as a high intermediate, I felt that most of the segments were to easy for me. However, a beginner will certainly appreciate the more detailed instruction (in many of the segments, Jennifer talks quite a bit between exercises) and will most likely enjoy the slower pace of the waking energy and dance segments. I think this DVD would be best suited to an advanced beginning exerciser who is interested in trying some of the unique styles presented here.
One final note: according to Jennifer's reps, this Level 1 DVD is subtitled "Embark on the Journey" (Jennifer sometimes uses this name during the workouts, but the name does not appear anywhere on the DVD case). There are two follow-up DVDs planned for release later this year, Level 2, "Harness the Power," and Level 3, "The Life Force Power Workout." The other video that is currently on the market, "Waking Energy" is a stand-alone DVD from this series which includes instruction on "Pilates Toys."
Instructor Comments:
Some people, including myself, have found Jennifer to be a bit pompass and show-offy in her previous videos. I definitely thought that she was more down-to-earth here, although she has continued her habit of doing a lot of talking between exercises, so you're often left standing there while she is explaining (this was not true of the waking energy or dance segments, all of which are performed in a continual flow). Also, she tends to be a bit over-the-top (to me, anyway) with all of her talk about how this workout will be "life-changing." Finally, as mentioned in the body of my review, Jennifer's cueing is sometimes lacking, although this only was an issue for me in the Jazz and Ballet segments.
Beth C (aka toaster)
01/10/2007
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:47:49 GMT
Body Ring Workout
Ana Caban
Year Released: 2001
This is a full-body Pilates workout which incorporates use of the Pilates fitness circle, or bodyring. Instructor Ana Caban works out with a partner, Tara, in a pleasant setting by a pond. The workout begins with approximately 24 minutes of matwork, starting with a few simple stretches and then moving into traditional Pilates moves such as the hundred, the roll-up, and the single leg stretch. For each move, the bodyring is used to enhance the work, either by holding it in-between your feet or squeezing it with your hands to involve the upper body. The second half of the matwork focuses more on the legs and contains a lot of leg press work very similar to Karen Voight's Total Body Toning. The last 10 minutes of the workout are performed seated in a chair. In this segment, Ana uses the ring more for the upper body, but you will also do some additional inner and outer thigh work. Finally, there are some brief stretches, bringing the total workout time in at just under 34 minutes.
Overall, I liked this workout, which I see as a combination of Voight's Total Body Toning and the Stott Power Fitness Circle workouts. Because Ana does not provide much form instruction, this would not be a good videos for those new to Pilates. However, more experienced Pilates practitioners might find the workout a bit boring at times: although Ana moves briskly from one exercise to the next, the exercises themselves often move rather slowly. Although I would have preferred the video to move a bit more quickly and to have been a bit shorter as a result, I still feel that this is a good choice for those looking to incorporate the bodyring into their Pilates work.
Instructor Comments:
I generally find Ana to be a warm, likeable instructor, although I think her personality gets lost in the voiceover--I prefer her live instruction. Also, Ana focuses less on form here than in her toher videos. Her assistant Tara again joins Ana for the workout, but she does not provide any modifications; also, I noticed with amusement that the credits have updated Tara's title from "Pilates Student" (how it appeared in Ana's original videos) to "Pilates Partner."
Beth C (aka toaster)
04/08/2005
With strength work, I am an intermediate exerciser, who doesn’t really want to move up to advanced work. Most of the time, I do traditional strength work with weight. However, I have enjoyed branching out into Pilates and workouts on the ball as well. Most recently, I have been on a quest to find good workouts with which I can use my Pilates fitness circle. So far, I’ve tried one of Moira Stott’s workouts and Karen Voight’s workouts, and then this one.
The box says that this workout is 40 minutes; and it is if you watch from the FBI warning through the credits. I did it in 35 minutes.
The workout is set on a dock by a lake. I’ve seen it before in another Ana Caban workout. Tara joins Ana in this workout as a background exerciser, but she does not show modifications. They do the same moves throughout the workout. The workout is done with voice over and it is accompanied by light instrumental music. Ana gives form pointers throughout the workout and describes the moves in a clear way. A few stretches are inserted between more strength-oriented moves throughout the workout.
Below are the moves contained in the workout. In each case, you hold and/or use the fitness circle in some way.
Warm up with stretches and twists
Hundreds
Roll ups
Single leg stretch
Double leg stretch
Criss Cross
Spine stretch forward
Leg press downs
Leg press ups
Double leg lifts
Back extensions
Leg lifts
Heel beats
Pelvic lifts
Seated leg press downs
Single arm press
Double arm press
Chest presses
Lat pull downs
Spine twists
Arm circles
Leg presses
Final stretches
Between “seated leg press downs” and “final stretches”, the moves are done on a chair. To me, this workout felt like a traditional Pilates workout with the insertion of moves specifically for the fitness circle.
Of the three workouts I’ve tried with the fitness circle, I think this is my favorite. Moira Stott’s is a bit dry and I had trouble doing a couple of the moves. Karen Voight’s left my inner thighs BURNING, but she didn’t use the circle with the entire body and much of it felt like traditional floor work, something I generally don’t enjoy as much as Pilates. This workout wasn’t super intense, but it did leave me feeling pleasantly worked out.
Instructor Comments:
Ana has a calm, straightforward manner and gives form pointers throughout the workout.
Laura S.
10/02/2004
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:48:47 GMT
BoneSmart Pilates
Teresa Maldonado Marchok
Year Released: 2013
I recently stumbled across this DVD at a used book sale and was curious enough to purchase it. It is specifically designed to provide safe Pilates-based exercises for those who have osteoporosis or its precursor, osteopenia. I am not in either of those categories, but I am turning 50 in six months. Although I am an experienced exerciser who works out on a daily basis--and also a certified yoga instructor--I am looking to continue to stay healthy as I get older.
This DVD is instructed by Teresa Maldonado Marchok, who is both a licensed physical therapist and a certified Pilates instructor. She explains in her introduction that she has ensured that the works on this DVD do not include moves that are contraindicated for osteoporosis, such as excessive forward flexion (forward bending) and forward bending with a twisting motion. Teresa also describes her "ABCs" of BoneSmart Pilates, which are Alignment, Balance, and Contraction. Teresa includes exercisers in her workouts who range in age from 40s to their 80s, and they briefly introduce themselves at the start. Finally, note that the Main Menu includes an Introduction to Props segment. There are A LOT of props used in this DVD, including a Pilates mini-ball, two different resistance bands (a long band and a looped band), a dowel, and halved tennis balls. Substitutions may be able to be made for some of these, but viewers will probably want to be aware ahead of time what is required.
The Main Menu for the DVD is quite detailed. I will first items as they appear on the menu, then add my impressions of the various segments.
Introduction
BoneSmart Pilates ABCs
Introduction to Props
Pilates Mat Tutorial
Pilates Mat Workout
Standing Counter Series Tutorial
Standing Counter Series Workout
Resistance Band Tutorial
Resistance Band Workout
Hip Blaster Tutorial
Hip Blaster Workout
Bone Dance Tutorial
Bone Dance Workout
Bonus Content
*Tennis Ball Foot Massage
*Postural Alignment Coaching
*Seated Exercise
*Rise and Shine
*Credits
As you can see, each of the main workouts is preceded by a tutorial which breaks down the moves. Personally, I do not like this format. I think that an experienced instructor should be able to provide form pointers within the workout itself, which Teresa doesn't really do. Also, the Tutorials give the appearance that this DVD has much more content than is actually the case, as most of the routines are quite short. I have broken them down in greater detail below, along with approximate times.
Pilates Mat Workout (28 minutes)--This routine uses the mini-ball and the resistance band; the dowel is optional. Teresa moves slowly and methodically. Many of the moves are familiar, such as pelvic tilts, bridges, single leg circles, and single leg stretch, although they are often performed in a modified way. I could see this being beneficial for someone with limited mobility or other restrictions, but most people who have done Pilates before and/or who are otherwise healthy are likely to find it too easy.
Standing Counter Series Workout (5 minutes)--This short series is what I would call a "barre" routine; Teresa and her assistant are actually using a ballet barre for plie work and similar moves.
Pilates Resistance Band Workout (14 minutes)--This segment can be performed standing or seated in a chair using the resistance band. It was focused on the upper body, with exercises designed to strengthen the postural muscles. I liked it; I've done very similar things in my yoga classes, so it was nothing new or different to me.
Hip Blaster Workout (5 minutes)--Another very brief sequence, this time using the looped band around the ankles and the dowel for balance (you could also use a barre, counter, or wall). It consists mainly of quick leg lifts to the front, side, and back interspersed with brief plies in-between.
Bone Balance Workout (3 minutes)--I didn't expect to like this at all. It was actually kind of fun--but so short! The looped band is used again here, as so rather than cardio, you get more of a hip workout as Teresa leads you through side-to-side and front steps.
BONUS
*Tennis Ball Foot Massage (1 minute)--Again, so short! And who has half tennis balls? I actually have full tennis/other balls, but Teresa uses the half for balance safety. I suggest instead doing one foot at a time (she does both) with a round ball and holding on to something.
*Postural Alignment Coaching (4 minutes)--Nice, but nothing I did not know already; I teach this in my yoga classes.
*Seated Exercise (4 minutes)--Basically two versions of seated backbend in a chair using the mini-ball behind the back in two different positions.
*Rise and Shine (9 minutes)--A nice stretch sequence you can do in bed or any time; incorporates some of the moves from the Mat Workout.
In summary, this DVD is well-done for the intended audience, but may come across as too slow and plodding for others. I am leaning to towards the latter, as the Mat Workout in particular--the longest segment on the DVD--seemed to drag to me. Yet at the same time, I recognize that as as I get older, I might need more routines like the ones this DVD has to offer. So, I will likely hold on to BoneSmart Pilates for now and see if it meets my needs in the near future.
Instructor Comments:
Teresa was generally fine as an instructor. As mentioned above, she didn't really give form pointers during the workouts because the tutorials were separate; I missed that. She is a big goofy, with the sort of personality that sometimes comes across as a teacher of young children, but overall, I thought she was fine and not overly annoying.
Beth C (aka toaster)
10/23/2017
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:50:38 GMT
Brand New Butt and Pilates
Janis Saffell
Year Released: 2005
I am unexpectedly impressed with this video. For some reason, I thought it would be on the fluffy side, but it turned out to really kick my butt.
The standing section consists of weights and a dynaband. The pilates section is almost all dynaband. I have the tape, not the DVD, so can't comment on the step portion.
It really works and tones the body in different ways than just straight weight work. I think this will be a new element in my rotation.
Instructor Comments:
Very good in this video. Cues well, pleasant and graceful.
Lady D
06/21/2006
This review only covers the Pilates section of the DVD, which is all I've done so far :-) I am relatively new to Pilates, and don't generally like tapes that use a band, but I really enjoyed this workout. It is all done on the floor (she does first the left side, then the right). The focus is mostly on the legs, but I would say your core is definitely worked as well, and just a bit of arm work is there, too. I felt like a weakling some of the time, trying to hold the band in the positions that Janis does (and with such grace and ease, too!). I am used to Cathe strength tapes, and feel relatively strong, but there were times during this workout that my arms just weren't going to do what Janis was doing. Not complex moves or anything, really just holding the band down to the floor in various ways while your legs pull against it...
There is quite a variety of moves in this workout, and they flow really well together. You lay on your side, on your back and in a plank or one-knne-down position, all the while working one or both legs with the band. Beginner modifications are shown using no band. I am feeling it especially in my hamstrings today, and I felt it as I was doing the workout, too. There were a few points that I really felt a lot of strain in my neck--probably bad form on my part, straining to see the screen, and lack of core strength. That was the only negative I felt about this workout, and hopefully it will go away as I get stonger with these moves.
I truly enjoyed this workout, and plan to do it often.
Instructor Comments:
Janis is thorough with her form pointers, smooth with transitions, friendly, calm and motivating in the Pilates section of this DVD.
Wendy2
10/05/2003
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:51:28 GMT
Cardio Pilates
June Kahn
Year Released: 2004
I'm glad I only spent $5 on this. Like the other reviewer said, not much to get excited about. It reminded me of Classical Stretch without the beautiful scenery or classical music. All of the moves are done standing and I did get a light workout out of it. I liked the music but had to strain to hear it; louder music might have helped.
Instructor Comments:
She tries hard. She needs some background exercisers to interact with.
Pam L
07/28/2008
In my quest to find something along the lines of Crunch Fat Burning Pilates and Burn and Firm Pilates, Cardio Pilates caught my eye and obviously my credit card.
While this workout does use pilates/ballet-types of moves to achieve a cardio effect for about 30 minutes, I felt as if I was just going through the motions. There was nothing really exciting about this dvd at all. Cardio Pilates is a Sara City Workout which is NOT known for its fine production values. Unfortunately, Cardio Pilates lives up to Sara City's reputation. The music, when you can hear it, is unmemorable and boring and the set is very sparce consisting of a shelf in the background and June. There are no background exercisers. Even though this workout is on dvd, the picture seemed a little on the fuzzy side to me. One plus is the dvd is at least chaptered.
Most of the moves consists of plies, releves, back leg extentions, side leg lifts, front leg lifts, and leg circles. While these moves did get my hearate up - somewhat, the mediocre production quality will prevent me from getting a whole lot of use out of this workout. If you are looking for a good cardio pilates workout, the $24.99 Cardio Pilates cost would be better spent buying the two cardio pilates workouts by Crunch that I mentioned above.
So the search for more decent cardio pilates workouts continues. When I find another one, VF will be the first to know.
Instructor Comments:
June's instruction is clear, she cues well and her form is good. Unfortunately, all these attributes are not enought to overcome this workout's lackluster appeal. Like me, June did not seem to be that excited to do this workout.
Tiffanee
06/05/2005
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:52:10 GMT
Cardio Pilates
Ana Caban
Year Released: 2003
I’m reviewing this workout after doing the Pilates portion numerous times and the cardio portion once over the months I’ve had this.
General workout breakdown: This video has two distinct routines: one Pilates (about 25 minutes) and one hi/lo aerobics (about 20 minutes).
The classical-type Pilates routine includes controlled sit down, the hundred (with the last half done with 3 inhales and 7 exhales, in contrast to the usual 5 and 5 or 4 and 4), roll up, leg circles, rolling like a ball, single leg stretch, double leg stretch, single straight leg stretch (i.e. scissors), double straight leg stretch, criss cross (i.e. bicycle), spine stretch forward (holding the final stretch down), closed leg rocker, corkscrew, saw, neck rolls, swan dive preparation, child’s pose, single leg kicks, chid’s pose, double leg kicks, shoulder bridge preparation, side leg series (up & down, passé), one-legged teaser, mermaid, side plank, seal, and return to standing. Ana’s overall pace is on the leisurely side, yet you’re never sitting around waiting for her to finish instructing or setting up a move. At the same time, I feel I have plenty of time to move from seated or supine to prone positions and back again. Ana doesn’t do a lot of repetitions, but at the same time I didn’t feel shortchanged.
The floor aerobics consists primarily of marching, hamstring curls, step tap, and step with a reach across. She does throw in some holds, and later (when I was just about to threaten bodily harm if I had to do the opening combo one more time) she adds two series with moves like scissor jacks (which she calls lunges) and jumping jacks. She then stops abruptly for a few quick stretches at the end. There is no warm up, either. Except for these small jumps, this is a low impact, compact aerobics portion.
Level: I’d recommend this to someone with some Pilates experience looking to make the transition from beginner to intermediate. Ana includes some form instruction and pointers, but not enough for true beginners. Additionally, she does not show or really even suggest modifications, making this routine difficult for those with flexibility and strength limitations who don’t know how to modify. I consider myself low intermediate at Pilates (about 2 years of experience but still limited strength & flexibility), and I find this video somewhat challenging.
I consider myself at the high intermediate, maybe at the intermediate / advanced crossover point, with respect to cardio, and I had to exaggerate my movements to keep my heart rate up.
Class: Ana alone, instructing “live.”
Music / Set / Other Production Notes: The light instrumental music stuff is bland and repetitive. During the Pilates portion it’s fine, but it detracts from the aerobics. (I’m sure someone out there runs sprint intervals to Windham Hills, but I think most of us need something more invigorating for cardio.) Ana is under a gazebo-like structure in a public garden or arboretum of some sort. As is usual for Gaiam productions, the picture and sound are crisp and clear.
Equipment: mat (or equivalent) for the Pilates portion; sneakers for the aerobics.
Space Requirements: enough room to move your arms and legs around while lying down, and enough room to move your arms and legs around comfortably while standing. The cardio portion stays in one place and would be great for rebounding. (In fact, it may be almost fun on a rebounder.)
DVD Notes: I’ve found I can only fast-forward, not skip, the long Gaiam intro. Fortunately the intros to the workout itself are chaptered and skippable. The Pilates portion is divided into about ten chapters, and the cardio portion is all one chapter.
Conclusion: I’m keeping this for the Pilates routine. It’s a good beginner/intermediate or low intermediate routine, and Ana is a great Pilates instructor. I’d rank Ana’s current matwork videos in this order, from easiest to toughest: Beginning Pilates Matwork, Easy Pilates, Quick Start Pilates for Weight Loss, Cardio Pilates, Intermediate Pilates Matwork, PM Pilates, the Energy Boost Pilates, and Pilates for Abs.
The cardio portion is worth a watch or try of a few minutes to see how engaging your core can help your cardiovascular activities, but there are too many far better routines out there to bother with this one, unless you like very, very basic choreography and don’t have much cardio.
Instructor Comments:
Ana has a pleasant, positive on screen persona. The Pilates portion shows her talents much more than the cardio. She cues the Pilates moves well and offers a good number of helpful tips. I enjoy Ana as a Pilates instructor. I think she presents the classical Pilates matwork in a fresh, exciting way that makes the same old, same old seem interesting, doable, and even fun. On the other hand, she seems unsure of how to conduct the aerobics portion, only cueing move changes and reminding you about your form.
KathAL79
01/12/2005
Lest anyone confuse this workout with videos like Crunch Fat Burning Pilates that combine Pilates movements with cardio, you need to know right off the bat that this is instead a traditional Pilates matwork workout followed by a lackluster hi/lo workout. The setting is a pretty Asian-inspired garden, and the music is up-tempo New Age. Gaiam has not apparently figured out how long their videos are because this one says 42 minutes on the package but is in fact 48 minutes. The matwork segment is 29 minutes and the cardio, cooldown, and stretch are 19 minutes total.
The matwork consists of about 23 classic basic and intermediate Pilates exercises, including a few tough ones like closed leg rocker, teaser, and side bend. It is not recommended for Pilates newbies as Ana doesn't demonstrate or discuss any modifications for these moves.
The cardio section consists of four basic hi/lo steps: marching in place, hamstring curls, reaching side to side, then overhead repeated endlessly for about 8 minutes. Suddenly you switch to a couple of quick balancing moves (standing on one foot at a time) and a couple of ball-and-chains (which low impacters will need to modify, probably with more marching in place), before going right back to the first routine several more times through. After repeating these moves for 15 minutes, you do some squats and jumping jacks, then some more balancing moves of lifing one leg at at time to the front and to the side before a quick stretch.
I doubt I will ever do this video. It's fine as a basic, half hour matwork session, but I'd probably have to lose the entire remainder of my video collection in a fire before I'd condsider doing the cardio portion. I appreciate basic choreo, but this had me screaming with boredom.
Instructor Comments:
Ana is a good Pilates instructor with excellent cues and pointers, but in this video she provides absolutely no modifications. She leaves a lot to be desired as a cardio instructor, however.
Kate
11/06/2004
This tape is also part of the Gaiam set currently being sold on their site. If you're familiar with the Energy Boost workouts (originally add-ons to the Beginner and Intermediate workouts, now sold separately), that concept is extended here. The workout starts with a more traditional "aerobic" warmup, then moves on to Pilates movements (some pretty advanced) done at a slightly brisk pace.
The warmup includes circuits of kicks, jacks, lunges, marches, jogs and jumps for about 3 minutes, then moves onto the matwork. The movements follow the traditional Pilates sequence, but doesn't include everything. The movements are: the Controlled Sit Down, the Hundred (the more "old school" leg variation is included here- the legs are lifted from the floor rather than bent from the knees then lowered), the Roll Up, Single Leg Circles, Rolling Like a Ball (hands are crossed over the shins here), Single Leg Stretch, Double Leg Stretch, Spine Stretch Forward, Closed Leg Rocker, Corkscrew, Neck Roll (the Full Swan may also be included at this point), Single Leg Kick, Neck Pull, Shoulder Bridge (with leg kicks), Spine Twist, Side Kicks (including Passe, Developpe, Big Scissors and Hot Potato), Teaser (One Leg, then with a twist), Mermaid and Seal. Then we stand for Running (knees to the front and side) and Jacks.
Instructor Comments:
Competent, calm instruction, as usual.
Deb
07/14/2004
Deb
07/14/2004
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:53:24 GMT
Lower Body Toning Ring Workout
Madeleine Lewis
Year Released: 2003
I got this workout at Target in a weird way. It must have gotten separated from the kit it usually comes in, because it was the only one anywhere in the store outside of the kit. But, I didn’t need the ring, so this worked for me. With strength work, I am an intermediate exerciser, who doesn’t really want to move up to advanced work. I have really enjoyed getting into workouts on the ball and Pilates as an alternative to traditional strength training. For whatever reason, I have especially enjoyed ring workouts and have tried multiple ones. My favorite ones Ana Caban’s ring workout and the West Coast Pilates Magic Circle Workout.
I didn’t have high expectations of this workout and was pleasantly surprised. Although it isn’t a super tough workout, I felt more worked out than I expected at the end of it. It is a fairly short workout, so I didn’t anticipate this. This is how I clocked the workout: warm up - 2.5 minutes, workout – 19 minutes, stretch – 2 minutes.
Madeline Lewis is by herself in a set that looks like a family room with glass doors looking out on a garden. She leads the workout at a slow and controlled pace. She is very specific with directions and instructions and gives lots of form pointers. She also is very encouraging and stresses that people should do what they can and work up to the full workout, if necessary. The music was typical, bland instrumental music.
Instructor Comments:
She is detailed in her instruction and very supportive throughout the workout.
Laura S.
02/01/2005
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:54:42 GMT
Energy Boost Pilates
Ana Caban
Year Released: 2002
I’m reviewing this workout after having done it at least half a dozen times since having gotten it several months ago.
General workout breakdown: While standing in Pilates stance you breathe with arms reaching up and down, then do side stretches with arm extended overhead. To warm up further, you alternate between jogging and marching, then do some jumping jacks (without arms) and lunges, then “jump rope,” finishing up with jumping jacks again. (This section is brief, deliberate, and not the highlight of the workout for me!) You then do a controlled sit down, and the matwork consists of the 100, roll up, single leg stretch, double leg stretch (both with and without the arms), something Ana calls “ the short box series” (you sit up with your legs extended and arms crossed over your lower torso, then scoop your belly and lean back, then pull yourself back to the starting position with abs still scooped; you then do this with your back flat and arms behind your head; then you bend to each side with the flat back and arms in the same position), “the tree” (beginning with stretching the leg, then rolling down and back up using your hands on your straight leg, which stays in the air), shoulder bridge (the last two times with one leg extended up), mermaid, boomerang, and final stretch (one leg bent in front, one behind; you then do a forward bend). You end seated cross-legged, having accomplished a lot of Pilates in 11 1/2 minutes!
Ana performs a decent number of repetitions, and the routine moves at a brisk but not rushed pace. She only pauses long enough between exercises to announce the upcoming move, so you need to be mentally and physically prepared to keep moving.
Level: I’d recommend this for a solidly intermediate Pilates practitioner. Ana gives little instruction here, even if her cues of movements and few form pointers are great, and the exercises are challenging, so anyone new to Pilates would have a hard time completing the workout. Also, no modifications are shown or even suggested. A more advanced Pilates practitioner might find this good for a lighter or rushed day. I personally find it challenging but not impossible. (I consider myself at the stage where I’ve crossed over into intermediate territory with respect to Pilates. I’ve had almost two years of Pilates experience, including a live class, but my strength and flexibility are still limited.)
Class: Ana alone with voiceover
Music / Set / Other Production Notes: Outdoors in a natural garden or nature place (It reminded me of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens) near a small lake. The atmospheric instrumental music is pleasant but forgettable. Since this is a Gaiam production, the picture and sound quality are excellent.
Equipment: mat (optional). Ana does this barefoot.
Comments: You don’t need a lot of space to do this workout. You should be able to lie down with your arms and legs extended. Make sure you’re not going to hit anything when you rock back for the boomerang! (I stubbed my toes once on a bookshelf. Ouch!)
DVD Notes: You can find Energy Boost Pilates on two different DVDs: “Energy Boost Pilates,” which only contains this routine, and “A.M. and P.M. Pilates Mat Workouts,” which also contains Jillian Hessel’s AM Pilates and Ana’s PM Pilates. It’s the same on either DVD: no chapters for the workout, and you’ll have to deal with Gaiam’s long intro.
Conclusion: This is a keeper for three reasons: a) this short workout packs a lot in, so it’s a great choice as an add-on or for days when you don’t have a lot of time; b) there are some different exercises that don’t often appear on Pilates videos, such as the “box series” and boomerang, and c) Ana is always a pleasure to work with. I originally got the Energy Boost Pilates DVD as a trade; now I have it on the AM/PM Pilates DVD. I’m not sure the DVD with just this workout is worth it, but Ana’s PM Pilates is also a great routine, so I’m keeping that one.
Instructor Comments:
Ana Caban, a former dancer who turned to Pilates following an injury, is a true Pilates instructor who trained under Romana K, one of Joseph Pilates’ original students. She is serious about classical Pilates, yet she comes across as an encouraging, friendly, approachable instructor. Her form is excellent, her cueing solid, and her form pointers helpful.
KL (KathAL79)
07/27/2005
Energy Boost Pilates is kind of different in that it begins in a standing position with a few aerobic-type moves such as jogs, knee lifts, jumping jacks, and jumping lunges. This segment is very quick--no more than 1-2 minutes--and is designed to warm you up, but you could easily skip it if needed. Instructor Ana Caban then proceeds to the floor for some traditional Pilates matwork moves. Using voiceover instruction, she leads you quickly through reclined exercises such as the hundred, the roll-up, and part of the stomach series. Moving to a seated position, Ana then performs an additional series of moves, some of which I had never seen before (and I've done A LOT of Pilates videos). Then it's a quick stretch and you're done, for a total of about 11 minutes. This video struck me as sort-of a shorter, more fast-moving version of Ana's PM Pilates workout; it's a nice alternative for getting in a full-body Pilates workout in a limited amount of time.
Instructor Comments:
I generally find Ana to be a warm, likeable instructor, although I think her personality gets lost in the voiceover--I prefer her live instruction. In this video, Ana works out alone in a pleasant setting by a pond (the same setting as her bodyring workout).
Beth C (aka toaster)
04/08/2005
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:55:22 GMT
Energy Boost Pilates II
Ana Caban
Year Released: 2002
I’m reviewing this workout after doing it several times over the year or so that I’ve had it.
General workout breakdown: This 13 minute routine combines a couple of aerobics, balancing, and stretching moves with an abbreviated Pilates matwork routine. It contains breathing, marching & jogging, balancing (standing on one leg with other out to the side), standing side stretch with bounce, controlled sit down, the 100, roll up, single leg stretch, double leg stretch, single straight leg stretch, double straight leg stretch, criss cross (slow and double time), teaser/open leg rocker series (set up like rolling for a ball, pulse your legs, straighten your legs, walk up & down an imaginary rope, hold teaser position, do open leg rocker, bring legs in, and pulse legs), and seal. The pace is fairly swift but controlled. Ana doesn’t take too long to set up moves, and she gives you enough time to set up and execute moves properly. (Her double time is probably half a beat slower and more controlled than Mari Winsor’s.) She doesn’t do a lot of repetitions of each exercise, but I felt that she does just enough to give me a burning sensation in my core (especially during that teaser/open leg rocker series).
Level: I’d recommend this to someone who’s at least at an intermediate level of Pilates. You definitely need to know what you’re doing because Ana includes little form or breath instruction, few form tips, and no modifications. I consider myself a low intermediate at Pilates (about 2 years of experience but still limited strength & flexibility), and I find this challenging.
Class: Ana alone, with instruction via voiceover.
Music: soft instrumental synthesizer-y stuff.
Set: Ana is on a platform on a grassy hill overlooking a rocky beach, with a mountain visible across the ocean waves. It’s a bright, sunny day.
Production: Gaiam’s usual high quality sound, picture, and camerawork. The voiceover matches the moves well enough.
Equipment: mat (or equivalent). Ana is barefoot.
Space Requirements: enough space to move your arms and legs around while lying down.
DVD Notes: As far as I know, this is currently only available as a bonus on Gaiam’s Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout DVD. It’s all one chapter.
Conclusion: I’m definitely keeping this one. I like Ana, and this interesting routine is perfect for a day when I’m short on time.
I’d rank Ana’s current matwork videos in this order, from easiest to toughest: Beginning Pilates Matwork, Easy Pilates, Quick Start Pilates for Weight Loss, Cardio Pilates, Intermediate Pilates Matwork, PM Pilates, Maintenance Pilates for Weight Loss (both routines), the Energy Boost Pilates (I and II), and Pilates for Abs. I can’t decide whether Energy Boost I or II is more challenging, because just when I decide one isn’t so bad a move comes along and challenges my core strength and flexibility to their limits. Energy Boost I has moves adapted from the reformer, so it’s more unfamiliar to those who normally do matwork only, but the teaser/open leg rocker series in II is super tough.
Instructor Comments:
I enjoy Ana as a Pilates instructor. I think she presents the classical Pilates matwork in a way that makes the same old, same old seem fresh, interesting, and doable; here she mixes some elements up to create something a little different. Although cardio activity is not her forte, she cues the Pilates moves well, focusing just on cueing Pilates (with no side chatter).
KathAL79
01/30/2006
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:56:27 GMT
Form Pilates, The Beginner Mat Series Lindsay Lopez Year Released: 2006 Setting: Wood flooring with white cabinets/drawers, yellow walls. Music: No music in the workout so you can choose to use your own. (it may not be necessary in the Basic or Beginner sessions since Lindsay gives lots of detailed instruction) There are 3 chapters: Basic, Beginner and Flow. Basic: This section is for true beginners as Lindsay demonstrates the easiest modifications to follow. Lindsay instructs as Will demonstrates the moves. This session is not only good for beginners, but also for those with back pain, limited range of motion or injuries as they will also benefit from the program. Here are the exercises you'll learn in this order: 1. The Hundred 2. The Roll Down 3. Single Leg Circle 4. Rolling like a ball 5. Single Leg stretch 6. Double Leg stretch 7. Spine Stretch forward 8. Saw The basic session runs for about 8 minutes. Beginner: Still for beginners, but Lindsay adds a few exercises. She continues to give great pointers but with slightly less modifications. Julie demonstrates while Lindsay instructs her. This segment is the longest at about 19 minutes. Here is the beginner session exercises in the order she does them: 1. The Hundred 2. The Roll Down 3. Single Leg circle 4. Rolling like a ball 5. Single leg stretch 6. Double leg stretch 7. Single leg straight 8. Double leg straight 9. Criss Cross 10. Spine Stretch forward 11. Saw 12. Swan Prep 13. Side laying leg work 14. Teaser (with modification) 15. Teaser without 16. Seal 17. Front Support Flow: Lindsay demonstrates all the moves you've learned in the beginner session in a continuous flow. In 9 minutes, you'll work your entire body. (this section is great for when you are short on time) The setting for this session is different. Lindsay is alone on a wood deck outside. If you are a beginner who is new to pilates, this would be a great place to start. Once you've mastered the basic & beginner sessions, the flow session will work you out in only 9 minutes. Instructor Comments: www.keepyourform.comDeniseR 07/08/2006 |
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:57:25 GMT
Fusion Pilates Triple Threat
Jennifer Gianni
Year Released: 2005
Fusion Pilates Triple Threat is a 55-minute workout incorporating low impact cardio, light pilates-style toning and balance work. The instructor, Jennifer Gianni, does the entire workout barefoot, including the cardio. I did the same and had no problems. The only equipment needed is a play ball (I substituted a light medicine ball), plus a mat for floor work.
Jennifer Gianni was previously known as Jennifer Peluso, and appeared in The Firm's 1998 Tri-Trainer Better Body & Buns. In that workout her presentation was roundly criticized ("come hither" looks and posturing, voice too breathy/sexy) as was her appearance (too "waifish" compared to other Firm instructors). I know I wasn't the only one who hated her outfit, which too closely resembled a bathing suit -- with her upswept hairdo she looked like a beauty contestant who got lost on the way to the swimsuit competition. I am happy to report that in Triple Threat she is much improved. Jennifer is still petite (of course) and soft-spoken, but the sex kitten mannerisms are gone and she wears a sensible (but pretty) outfit with a simple hairstyle.
I like the set a lot. Jennifer teaches solo in a softly-lit room corner with plants and tall windows that look out over more greenery. It was like being up in a tree house. The music was good if not memorable, with a strong percussive beat that kept it from being too bland.
There a separate 12-minute intro section where Jennifer covers basic pilates principles. Those who have done pilates before will find this familiar, but it is worth watching at least once as Jennifer uses some slightly different terminology and imagery. The chapter menu on the DVD allows you to skip the intro, and the main workout is segmented so you can easily skip or repeat different sections.
In the workout Jennifer uses a play ball about a foot in diameter. I chose to substitute a two-pound medicine ball, which was just perfect for adding a bit of intensity. I consider myself an intermediate exerciser. More advanced exercisers might want to try a heavier ball. However, note that Jennifer herself does not mention using weighted balls as an option.
A brief warm-up featuring side steps and knee repeaters is followed by an active stretch into which Jennifer incorporates several balance moves (such as dancer's pose). She then picks up the ball for the cardio section. The cardio is completely low impact, using simple combinations done at a deliberate pace, but it still raised my heart rate. For the lower body there are lots of kick moves, knee-ups, lateral side steps and side lunges. For the upper body Jennifer uses the ball in a lot of circular, diagonal and twisting moves, which adds a functional fitness aspect to the workout. A few of the moves involve standing ab work. Everything was well cued and easy to follow.
From the cardio section Jennifer transitions into more balance challenges (e.g. standing on one leg while holding the ball overhead and squeezing), followed by a set of back lunges (dips).
We then move to the floor. Most of the moves here are familiar: push-ups, front leg pull (an inset picture shows a beginner modification), pilates side series. However, the abs were a bit different -- after side planks and mermaids, Jennifer uses the ball for roll-ups, then does crunches and leg lowers incorporating a frog position (feet together, knees apart). A thorough stretch completes the workout.
Triple Threat would work for almost any fitness level. Beginners can use an unweighted play ball as Jennifer does, while more intermediate ones might substitute a light medicine ball. Intensity junkies and choreography fans won't be challenged, but they might still appreciate Triple Threat as a "light day" alternative, especially if they want to work on balance. While doing Triple Threat I found myself thinking what a nice choice this will be for a workout on a hot summer day, since it is done barefoot, has the refreshing "tree house" setting, and is not ultra-intense.
Jennifer's other Fusion Pilates workouts are designed for pregnant and post-pregnancy exercisers, and I haven't seen them (no need, LOL!). I hope Jennifer will make more non-pregnancy workouts.
Instructor Comments:
Jennifer Gianni previously appeared in The Firm's 1998 Better Body & Buns as Jennifer Peluso. At that time her appearance and presentation were roundly criticized (see the VF reviews). However, she is much improved since that video and I found her a very pleasant, professional instructor.
JustSandra
05/18/2006
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Post by Karla on Dec 21, 2023 23:59:08 GMT
Breakthru Core Conditioning Pilates (aka Breakthru Hard-Core Conditioning)
Tracy York, Michelle Dozois
Year Released: 2001
Please note that I wrote this review about 5 years ago; I've copied and pasted it as originally written. At the time of the review I had done this a few times, but it had been a bit since the last run through.
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General workout breakdown: This workout has about 30 minutes of Pilates and Pilates-inspired moves followed by almost 10 minutes of stretching and other non-intense moves for a total of just under 40 minutes. The emphasis is primarily on abs with minimal upper and lower body work; there is a decent amount of work for the back. Michelle and Tracy go through two or even three modifications for many of the moves, sometimes increasing the difficulty and sometimes decreasing it.
Workout Level: I’d recommend this for a strong and experienced high beginner to a mid-intermediate Pilates practitioner. I don’t this video would make a good introduction to Pilates, because Michelle and Tracy do not offer enough tips on form and technique for someone who’s never done any of the moves before. At the same time, they do spend time setting up moves, which would bore more experienced Pilates exercisers. When I had this video, I considered myself an experienced beginner: I had taken a semester-long class on Pilates and had been doing a little work at home, but my strength and flexibility needed a lot of work. I found this video almost overwhelming at that point. Now that I’m in the low intermediate stages and have videos with similar moves, I think that I would now find it suitably challenging.
Class: Michelle and Tracy both perform the entire routine, with one offering modifications on a number of moves.
Music / Set / Production Notes: The jazzy instrumental music which gives way to some light choral-type music is barely audible. Also barely audible is the microphone when Michelle or Tracy move their heads away from it to complete a move or are on their stomach. In other words, the production values of this workout are OK but not great. The interior set has a blue screen on one side, a painted wall on the other with window boxes, and gray carpets. It’s nothing to write home about, but it’s pleasant enough.
Equipment Needed: mat and towel (or yoga strap or something of that sort). Tracy and Michelle perform this barefoot.
Comments: You do not need much space for this workout. You should be able to lie down with your arms and legs extended, and you should have enough space to either side to move your legs freely.
Although this features Pilates exercises, it is not in the traditional Pilates order and does not include all of the Pilates “classics,” such as the 100. I would recommend it to intermediate practitioners who want something a little different.
DVD Notes: The DVD lets you choose chapters (covering segments rather than individual movements); this allows you to skip the intro.
Conclusion: Besides having trouble hearing portions of the instruction, my biggest problem with this workout was the slow pace. Michelle and Tracy don’t rush through explaining technique or stretching out to get to the next exercise. That means this is a good workout for days when you want to take it easy and challenge yourself with smaller movements and fewer repetitions. Or it might be good for intermediate exercisers with fairly strong abs and good flexibility who want to add something different to their abs routines. The length makes it difficult to use as an add-on, which is how I like to use my Pilates videos.
Of the three Breakthru Pilates programs, this is the most focused on Pilates and the least exciting in terms of overall flow as well as production values. I’ve kept the other two BPs, but I traded this one away. I hemmed and hawed about that, because it's a good workout and I like Michelle and Tracy a lot. In the end I realized that I needed to clear something out for some other Pilates videos that I enjoy more.
Instructor Comments:
Michelle and Tracy obviously have good rapport and are serious about Pilates. They alternate leading segments, and, since only one has the mike at any given time, there is no side chatter. I think Michelle is good with imagery while Tracy is good at describing form in non-imagery terms. Michelle is more graceful while Tracy is more athletic. Both sides of the body are worked evenly, and the two instructors intend for you to mirror their movements.
KathAL79
09/01/2009
I'm surprised there's not more reviews of this tape. This is a great workout for only $9.99. I thought about purchasing the tape for awhile and then got a smokin' deal on the exchange and I'm so glad I did! The workout is about 40 minutes total. It's high beginner to intermediate level. I wouldn't recommend it for someone brand new to Pilates, because they didn't explain the breathing patterns well (except Michelle did give a good example of how it should feel to exhale- like a seat belt tightening all around your core, and to expel all the air out). I would say I'm a low intermediate, I took a series of classes last year, so I know the techniques but let my Pilates practice go for awhile. What I love about this tape is they dont do the advanced moves, like jacknife or roll-overs--- I have other tapes that demonstrate those exercises but I do not have the core strength or flexibility to attempt them at this time. With the other tapes, I end up fast-forwarding through those sections and get a guilty feeling, like why can't I do these moves (silly, but I am very competitive!) It's nice to have two instructors so one does the move (example: one-leg teaser) and the other can show the advanced way (regular teaser). They switch between the abs and back alot, which I feel is important to get a balanced workout. The music is quiet, new-agey. I think I am going to enjoy this tape and grow with it.
Instructor Comments:
Both are friendly and explain the moves well.
Sally Reese
08/06/2002
What a pleasant workout! There's something very appealing about this tape -- everything from the personality of the instructors, to the soft "new-agey" music, to the exercises themselves. It's a 40-minute Pilates-type workout. Michelle teaches the first part, and Tracy the second. You do a lot of different exercises that work your abs, core, and back. It's seldom that I have the patience to do 40 minutes of this type of exercise (20 or 30 is usually my limit), but this one goes by so fast that you don't even realize how much time has gone by. They do several different exercises, but they don't do a horrendous number of repetitions. You do something, and then you move on. It gets increasingly challenging toward the end. After I do this tape, I stand taller and feel more graceful, and I really enjoy it. Grade A+.
Annie S.
09/21/2000
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Post by Karla on Dec 22, 2023 0:00:24 GMT
Crunch Burn & Firm Pilates
Ellen Barrett
Year Released: 2004
I posted a review of this workout below, but wanted to update it. I did get rid of the workout like I said I would in my original review, but then I reacquired it at some point later when I bought a 3-DVD set of Ellen's Crunch workouts. And, I found over time that I really enjoy doing this workout once in awhile. I still don't like how she repeats everything on both sides, but I enjoy the light weight work with the fusion type flow. And, it's a standing workout, something that I prefer over floor work.
Although the workout happens on a typical Crunch set with typical Crunch background exercisers, I find that I focus on Ellen in this workout and don't mind them as I usually do. Doing this workout gives me a glow. My arms feel well worked out using 2-3 pound workouts, although I would classify this more of a cardio workout than a strength workout. If you like either cardio or strength without mixing them (as I did at the time of my original review), you won't enjoy this. But, if you like a mishmash of styles, then this might be for you.
Instructor Comments:
She really sells this being a standing Pilates workout. I don't necessarily think that it is a Pilates workout, more of a Pilates inspired workout. She's encouraging and enthusiastic in this workout.
Laura S.
03/06/2015
This is one of the Crunch pilates fusion workouts featuring Ellen Barrett, before she started her own Studio series. As I work through her Crunch workouts after having already done most of her Studio workouts, I am finding the Crunch workouts to be more athletic and traditional, but still infused with Ellen’s charisma and knowledge of pilates technique. This workout incorporated light weights so I consider it a prelude to Studio Slim Sculpt and Skinny Sculpt. This workout is not as difficult as those Studio workouts but is still a challenge. Ellen leads with several female and one male background instructor. One of the girls provides beginner modifications and does not use weights. The set is the classic Crunch open set, and the music was pretty good and included some tunes I thought I recognized from 10MS and/or Firm workouts. Ellen gives really clear instructions and reminds you about your posture and to engage your core. They work out with sneakers although I think you could just as easily (if not even easier) work out barefoot. I did the workout barefoot. They look like they are using about 3# weights and I did the same. That was about an appropriate amount of weight.
The workout is about 45 minutes long and includes a long warm up (about 7 minutes), a non-weighted standing pilates aerobic segment (about 7 minutes), then three standing pilates aerobic tunes which take up another 20 minutes, then down to the floor for about a 10 minute pilates mat series which includes some weighted arm work and some unweighted ab and core work. The workout moved quickly with no time wasted, and includes lots of plies (it is an Ellen workout, after all), reaches with and without the weights, lots of step touches and some mambos, and quite a bit of backwards and forwards lunges. My knees did NOT like all those lunges and by the end I really had to just walk it out during the lunge segments. Because of this, I decidedly like Crunch Fat Burning Pilates and her later Studio workouts better – I’m glad she doesn’t use all those lunges later on.
The workout really was pretty intense and the weights made it even more so. Besides the lunges I really did enjoy myself and will probably reach for this on a semi-regular basis, when I just want something different. It has a cardio impact but also lots of toning, so like others said it is fairly hard to categorize. Collage rates this as beginner-intermediate but I would rate it intermediate. Probably a keeper for any Ellen fan. It wouldn’t be my highest recommended of the Ellen Barrett collection but it’s a decent workout. Grade B.
Instructor Comments:
Ellen is very enjoyable. She isn’t quite as mystical as she is in her later Studio workouts, tending to be more athletic and down to business. She gives very clear cuing and she mirror cues. She gives clear instruction on pilates technique.
Emily B.
12/30/2010
I can't remember the breakdown on this but I remember really enjoying it. Not sure how to categorize it either since it wasn't really cardio but not all toning either! Most was done standing with pilates moves done upright. It needs some sp ace for side to side and a lot of leg movements. I used 3 lb dumbbells for the arm movements and found my arms got a decent toning workout just from holding the weights (I"m beginner esp in toning department!). I"m not sure someone advanced would feel anything and if you don't focus on the moves and control them you wont' feel much either. this workout could be made extrememly easy I think but I tried to focus on the moves and I got a good workout. at the end is matwork that was fun but challenging. seems like the overall length was around 45 min. I'd like to do this one more but time constraints hinder this so I'll do it whenever I can since I enjoy it.
Instructor Comments:
I love Ellen! She's so down to earth and 'fresh'. Great body too but although they have her showing a lot of flesh she doesn't seem to 'show it off' if you know what I mean.
Susanna
04/23/2006
This DVD has already been broken down and reviewed many times, so I will just give my personal impressions.
This was a good workout for me. I would say that I was at a low intermediate when I was sidelined due to injuries and then surgery. I am trying to get back into the swing of things and this was a good start.
I have lost some in terms of cardio, so this was actually kind of hard for me. There are tons of lunges, squats and plies, so beware! I know I will feel this in my legs tomorrow! I used 3 lb weights and I'm not totally convinced that my arms couldn't use a little more, so I might need to add on some heavier arm work later.
I am fairly new to aerobic weight training as I never could figure out where to put it in a rotation, but I really liked this. I missed the tradition pilates, but I can always do that on another day.
I think I will come back to this if I can figure out where to put it in. It was fun, though there is some dread factor due to the endless lunges (I hate lunges), but it's still doable.
If you like FB Pilates, you'll probably like this!
Instructor Comments:
Great! Upbeat and positive, but not too chatty or perky.
Krista (benemma)
03/26/2005
This is a 45 minute workout divided between a standing cardio Pilates-inspired segment and a mat segment. Very similar in format and feel to Crunch: Fat Burning Pilates, except this one adds 1-3 lb. weights to both segments. The cardio portion of B&F is longer than in FB, making the matwork section much shorter. No Ravi drum music this time around, either. In fact, I can't remember the music in B&F at all. As in FB, one background exerciser does modified moves, mainly by not using weights. Fewer bare bellies in this one, too!
The cardio segment is pretty basic and low impact with some traditional hi/lo moves like sidesteps and mambos, but with an empahsis on extending up through the spine and the Pilates stance. The first combos don't use weights. You pick them up about a third of the way in to begin four-limbed movements. People with shoulder problems might want to either go light or preview the moves. There are many, many side lunges and several front and rear lunges, including a few lunge/knee up combos. The weights help boost heart rate; I'm an intermediate exerciser and my hr got up into a reasonable zone.
The matwork is about 8 minutes and consists of "Shave the head" (french presses), seated arm work/ab combos, lying twists and toe taps, and straddle/reverse crunches, all with weights, and single leg stretch and single straight leg without weights.
I like FB Pilates and use it a lot, and though this has a similar feel and would make a good companion workout, the number of side lunges and the shorter matwork section (not to mention no Ravi!) make me less enthusiastic about this workout.
Instructor Comments:
Very perky and seems to know her stuff. She provides some good visualization tips to help with the Pilates positioning. Some of her cues happen on the move rather than right before it and she doesn't always explain a move, so it helps to watch the video through once to see what she means.
Kate
11/06/2004
With strength work, I am an intermediate exerciser, who doesn’t really want to move up to advanced work. Most of the time, I do traditional strength work with weight. However, I have enjoyed branching out into Pilates and workouts on the ball as well. I have a decent number of fusion and/or “Pilates-inspired” workouts which I enjoy on light days.
Other reviewers have described this workout pretty well, so I’ll just add my thoughts. This is a workout I would give a positive review to. Ellen leads the workout well and pleasantly. The set and production values are good. There was only one background exerciser I watched because I wondered how/if her pants would stay up given how low-riding they were. My heart rate was elevated during parts of the workout with the weights.
And, you will be seeing this DVD on my next trade list. It was good, but simply not good enough to keep my attention or motivate me to work out with it. Plus, it did get repetitive for me as she repeated the sets multiple times. I enjoy her Fatburning Pilates workout more, even though that workout’s start seems much slower to me. It seemed to have more of a “fun factor” for me.
Instructor Comments:
She is a good instructor: cues well, is engaging, describes moves descriptively.
Laura S.
10/29/2004
I bought this video at Walmart at a bargain price of $5.96. I really, really like this video. I'm a low intermediate exerciser and surprisingly I did break a sweat and my heart rate was raised. The tape is 48 minutes long with most of the work done standing up. As other reviews have stated there are tons of plies, but I didn't mind. I hate lunges and Ellen did do some lunges but she added this cool mambo move which made me not dread them as much. You use 1-3 lb weights throughout the workout. The mat workout is very short, which is my only complaint. Also, if you are looking for traditional pilates then you won't like this video, there are no hundreds, teasers, or rolling like a ball. However, a lot of the moves require you to balance so you are engaging your core quite a bit. She just had really different exercises that I haven't done before. She does this swan and see-saw move that killed my outer thighs.
It is definitely worth the $5.96.
Instructor Comments:
I really enjoyed Ellen, she had great cueing, seemed sincere, not too chatty or talkative.
Renee73
10/28/2004
This video was an impulse purchase at Walmart. I took it home, popped it in the DVD player and I liked it instantly. It's not terribly intense, but it did elevate my heart rate and make me break a sweat. I used three pound dumbbells the first time I did it and 2 lbs. the second time. The 2 pounders lessened the intensity and I'll likely use 3 pounders in the future.
I thought it was a fun and interesting workout, and it has rekindled my interest in Pilates. I will use this video on days when I'm not up for a more intense workout, and I even think this is one that I could handle at the end of a workday.
Instructor Comments:
Ellen is upbeat and queues continuously without incessant idle chatter.
Helen K
10/18/2004
This is Ellen Barrett's third Crunch Pilates video and the first which incorporates weights into the workout. Similar to in her previous video, Crunch Fat-Burning Pilates, many of the traditional Pilates floor exercises are performed here in a standing position, although Burn & Firm Pilates does include a separate matwork section (see below). The workout begins with a 5-minute warm-up consisting of simple movements such as marches and plies (there are A LOT of plies in this video!). Following this, there was a 7-minute segment that is difficult for me to define; it was too slow-moving to be cardio and might best be described as light toning. In this section, there are additional plies plus some basic ballet-inspired leg movements.
Next comes the "meat" of the workout, a 24-minute cardio segment using light weights to increase the workload. The first series includes alternating side leg lifts (the "saw") with a "swan" movement that involves raising one arm overhead and lifting the opposite leg. Although Ellen stated that we should be feeling this in our inner thighs, I found that it was actually my OUTER thighs and hips that were burning! Next comes more plies interspersed with two moves from the Pilates side series, rond de jambe and leg circles, both performed in a standing position. Continuing on, there is a segment involving knee lifts which turn into lunges and combine with a front arm raise. After that, it's back to MORE plies! This time, a standing Pilates arm zip is performed in-between sets. The finally cardio segment provides even more work for the arms: you will do a front and side mambo that turns into a front and side lunge (a bit awkward to the side) while performing bicep curls the entire time. The cardio section ends with a few additional exercises for the arms such as circles. Overall, I found the intensity of the cardio to be about the same as for the cardio segment of Crunch Fat-Burning Pilates, although this would not have been the case without using the weights.
The final 8 minutes of the video are performed on the floor, starting with arms and abs work in a seated position with the weights. Next, you move on to your back for two additional exercises, knee drops and leg straddles, using the weights as anchors. Finally, there are just two traditional Pilates matwork exercises, the single leg stretch and the single straight leg. The workout ends with a very short (1-2 minutes) cool-down in a seated position for a total of approximately 44 minutes.
I enjoyed this video and liked the addition of the weights, especially since I have been trying to add light weights to many of my cardio routines. What I did NOT like was the absence of a traditional Pilates matwork sequence; I would have much preferred to leave out the light toning segment early in the video and devote this time to mat exercises instead. Although the exercises are a bit more repetitious here, most fans of Crunch Fat Burning Pilates will probably enjoy this video as well.
Instructor Comments:
Ellen displays the same likeable personality here that she does in her prior Crunch videos. She frequently offers encouragement ("this looks great, guys!") to the viewer and class of seven Pilates students, one of whom serves as a modifier. Finally, Ellen's form and cuing just gets better over time.
Beth C (aka toaster)
08/24/2004
BFP is a fun workout, but it helps if you like plies, since you do a lot of them here. This is a mix of standing cardio moves with an emphasis on using core stability and control, as Ellen describes the moves. After several minutes, you pick up dumbbells and use them for upper body moves as you continue the cardio step patterns. After several cycles of different patterns, you hit the floor for some pilates mat work and then do a stretch. The music is fun, and kept me going, though if I had to describe it now, I couldn't. Although I enjoy this workout, it is somewhat repetitive. If this were a video I did regularly, more than once a week, I think I would get tired of it really, really quickly. But since I do it no more than twice a week, it is still fun to me. Ellen is a really solid instructor. I'd like to see her put together a dance cardio class with a ballet flair, similar to what Jessica Sherwood attempted in the dance segment of Ballet Boot Camp. Ellen explains things very well, and seems so at home in front of the camera. I also like this tape because the people all seem unique. It seems many of the tapes I've seen lately have the cast wearing the same clothes, the same haircolor and cut, the same boobs... there is a nice mix of body types here, and, just as if you were going to a studio, a mix of outfits as well. Unlike Ellen's earlier Fat Burning Pilates, where most of the outfits seemed to be staying on with glue and required a wax, there's no "train wreck" costumes here. Ordinarily, I don't notice the outfits much, but I was expecting the worst after FBP. On the whole, this is a fun workout that I like to pull out once a week or so. it isn't the most challenging workout for me, but I do feel like I get a good sweat in and my muscles do feel pleasantly fatigued. And somedays, a fun sweat is just what I need.
Instructor Comments:
Ellen is perky without being annoying. She cues well, shows good form and has a nice movement quality. I find her easy to follow and pleasant to work out with.
linda
11/30/-0001
After doing this DVD consistently for almost a month (which by the way is very unusual for me) I knew that I had to write a review on it.
The title has Pilates in it but it is also a true aerobic weight training workout using exercises found in Pilates. For the first thirty minutes of the workout, you will use light weighted dumbbells to do most of the aerobic weight training exercises such as plie squats, plie squats while reaching your arms (palms facing up) overhead and back (kind of like a wide shoulder press), bicep curls with side leg lifts, swan arms (arms stretching from side to side) with side leg lifts, mambos front and side with bicep curls, and back lunges with shoulder raises.
All the moves are low impact but I found you can really increase the intensity not by making the moves high impact but by paying close attention to your form and really controlling the moves. Ellen provides excellent visuals to make this possible.
After completing the cardio/strength series, you finish the workout with approximately eight minutes of more traditional Pilates floorwork which consists of shaving the head (triceps extensions w/a dumbell), stretching with legs extended to the front, pilates scissors, and exercises brining one knee to your chest while stretching the other leg away from the body. A very relaxing stretch at the end completes the workout.
As I have stated in other reviews, I'm not a big Pilates fan but this DVD and Ellen's other DVD, Crunch: Fat Burning Pilates, have changed my mind. Granted these are not your traditional Pilates workouts but a fusion of cardio, strength, and Pilates but it works for me. I adore this workout so much because it is a refreshing change from all the high impact that I'm used to doing. I'm an advanced exerciser and I really work up a sweat doing this workout. Must be all the muscle control, which is part of what Pilates is, that Ellen talks about.
The production is your typical Crunch style if you've seen other Crunch workouts. The workout takes place in an open studio. The music, while nothing fabulous, is pretty good. The only negative drawback to this workout is all the plies. There are no modifications shown for this move and if you have bad knees you may not be able to do this workout.
On a very positive note, by doing this workout and its sister workout consistently, I now have definition in my abs that I did not have before. Benefits aside, this is just a fun workout to do and I highly recommend it.
Tiffanee
11/30/-0001
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