Pilates/Method

[Stacy]

Hi. I was wondering if anyone could clarify a few things for me. I'm definitely pleased with Cathe's tapes (I own them all), but I'm always looking for more variety. I just received the Body Pump tape though I havent tried it yet. Recently, Ive been thinking about working my muscles differently by trying out the Pilates/Method tapes. I read the reviews on videofitness and had mixed feelings. I'm looking for an upper body and ab workout that will leave my muscles feeling really worked, and one where I will see great results. I'm satisfied with Cathe's leg workouts, and I also do Karen Voight's GWW floor section for legs which seems to suite me just fine. The reviews make the Pilates/Method videos either seem like they're geared for ballerinas which I am definitely not nor do I enjoy dancing (I love step though!)or they seem to be more instructional workouts which I also am not interested in. So any suggestions for which tapes to purchase to get the most bang for my buck?? I'm also not concerned about a short workout, I almost always have time for at least a 60 minute workout. Since I'm posting I just wanted to say that I just bought a house with a finished basement and I can't wait to put together my new workout room...no more apartment living....yippee!!!

Thanks,

Stacy

 

[Debra]

I'm no dancer!

Hi Stacy,

I am rhythemically challenged and include Pilates in my routine to improve torso strength, diaphragm breathing, & flexibility. I don't find it replaces my strength training but it could with the right equipment.

Some of the Method's tv workouts & videos are choreographed. But nearly all of Precision Toning is on the floor (hence the name matwork). The other video I have & love is Stott's new Intermediate matwork. Go with The Method, Stott (the beginning matwork), or maybe Living Arts rather than Pilates inspired videos (Voight or Austin). FYI, I bought the Stott tape on the recommendation of a Pilates instructor.

 

[murph]

Agree..

The Original Precision Method series for Pilates with jennifer Kreis is great. Stott is functionally good--just too dry for me. Voight is for light days when you already know the basics of Pilates.

Jennifer Kreis has a new Method series out--it is basically a rehash of the Original--nothing new in it, I think. Get one OR the other (I have both--don't need both.) Murph

BUT I DO LOVE WHAT PILATES DOES FOR ME. :-cool

 

[Stacy]

RE: Agree..

Any comments regarding Stott's Advanced Mat video vs the Original Precision tape as far as which is tougher, etc.

Thanks,

Stacy

 

[Debra]

Hi Stacy

I find the Stott intermediate tape more challenging than Precision Toning. A friend with the advanced tape is finding it quite a challenge & she's been at it awhile.

 

[Stacy]

RE: Hi Stacy

Well I couldnt help myself. I just purchased Stott's Advanced Mat Workout and The Method's Target Specifics, and of course I already ordered all of Cathe's new tapes. I guess there are far worse things to be addicted to. Now I'm off to preview my new tapes!

Thanks for everyone's input,

Stacy