 Classical Pilates Technique: the Complete Mat Workout Series(Classical Pilates, Inc.) 2002 What is it? An instructional DVD devoted to classic Pilates, the way it was originally created by Joseph Pilates. Included are exercises from Modified Basic to Super Advanced level. Who is it for? Anyone who wants to learn Pilates the way it was meant to be taught. Some prior Pilates experience is helpful, since the beginning exercises are skimmed over rather quickly.
What to expect: Buy a dozen Pilates videos or DVDs featuring a dozen different instructors and you'll likely get a dozen different versions of Pilates. In the beginning, however, there was only one Pilates, the type taught by Joseph H. Pilates himself. His style still offers the best results, along with the most challenges. This DVD of mat exercises is completely based on classic Pilates technique, and it's a revelation to anyone who is used to seeing Pilates practiced by celebrity instructors in glossy, overproduced surroundings. The performers here — Peter Fiasca, Junghee Kallander and Jamie Trout, all very highly experienced Pilates teachers — have an amazing grasp of form and muscle control. The workouts are divided into several different sections. The first, Modified Basic, is a brief clip of modified moves to prepare you to practice the actual Pilates exercises, beginning with the Basic section. The Intermediate section contains most of the moves that are already familiar to those who practice Pilates at least occasionally — except they are done more quickly and more precisely. The Advanced section offers some very challenging versions of the exercises, while the Super Advanced section illustrates really tough poses that will probably be impossible to perform unless you've been taking classes for a few years (they're inspiring to watch, however!). There is also a discussion about Pilates — both the man and the exercise — between Fiasca, master instructor Bob Liekens and instructor/ author Alycea Ungaro. The production values of this DVD aren't impressive — there are no fancy sets or effects, no flawless models, no celebrity performers. It's simply shot and the backgrounds are quite basic. Instead, the focus is on the exercises, which is really where it should be in an exercise form like Pilates. Those who are serious about practicing Pilates the way it should be practiced will appreciate the sincere spirit and straightforward approach of this DVD. Other Pilates DVDs you may like:
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Pilates DVDs 
