Four quick, 10-minute Pilates routines targeting different parts of the body, plus a 10-minute "Total Body Weight Loss Challenge." Liz Gilles instructs.

Beginning exercisers. It does help, however, if you are familiar with Pilates form. You will need a mat and a pair of 2 to 5 pound dumbbells for the arms segment. (Because of the way the exercises are designed, you will probably need a slightly lighter weight than what you may be used to in traditional weight training.)

While Pilates' focus is the core, give it a few modifications and it can be used to target just about any body part. That's what Liz Gilles does in this group of fast-paced, 10-minute Pilates workouts. By adding a touch of dance here, a traditional strength-training move there, Gilles offers segments that work your buns, thighs, arms and abs. The abs segment, of course, contains the moves most familiar to Pilates enthusiasts. These are all fairly easy workouts — they depend more on correct form than on brute force, so they make for gentle toning sessions. They won't be challenging enough for experienced Pilates students, but those who are beginners or who are still getting into shape will derive a lot of benefit from them. One of the nicer aspects of these quick routines is the timer — halfway through the workout it gives you a countdown by minute so you know that you are almost done. At the end of the 4 target routines there is a bonus 10-minute segment that works the whole body. Gilles' solid cueing and friendly, no-nonsense approach makes these workouts enjoyable. You can mix and match these routines, depending on your focus and time availability. Getting in shape can be done quickly and effectively — this program is proof.