Pilates Video/DVD Recommendations to Start with
Jul 24 2007
How to Pick a Pilates Video
- A method vs. an individual putting out a video will tend to be more legitimate (STOTT PILATES® vs. Denise Austin)
- If an individual, do research. What are his/her credentials? Are they certified?
- Clear description of the pilates principles
- Constant referral back to the principles on as many exercises as possible
- Cuing speed. You want a consistent pace - not too slow and not too fast
- Does the instructor give breath pattern with the exercises?
- Can you see the instructor’s (or demonstrator’s) body clearly?
- If the video is claiming you can loose a certain amount of weight in a certain amount of time - it is probably a scam
- You want to feel, at the end, like you had a successful workout
Pilates Video Recommendations
I recommend the STOTT PILATES® videos for their moderate pace, crystal clear instruction and cuing, and most importantly the clear description of the basic principles.
These videos are the same videos that the STOTT PILATES® instructors use when training for their teacher’s certificate - even more reason for them to be clear and precise!
Essential Pilates Video
Start with the Essential STOTT PILATES® Matwork to learn about the pilates principles and how to incorporate them into each exercise. Once you begin to master the exercises within the workout, you can turn the volume on mute and move through them at a slightly faster pace, using the TV screen as a visual cue.
For the next level of challenge, and variety, consider the mat workouts which incorporate props. The small props added into the workout will further challenge the core and stability while toning the rest of the body.
And, each of these videos demonstrates the beginning warm-up and review of the basic principles as appears in the essential pilates mat workout. The review will be a great reminder for you as you are progressing.
Pilates with a Flex Band Video
Pilates with a Fitness Circles Video
Pilates with a Ball Video
Pilates with a Foam Roller Video
Remember - pilates is not only about finding the core, using the center, and toning the body. It is also about using your brain to create awareness about how you exercise and move your body. When first learning pilates it will be, similar to other learning processes, slower and gradually pick up speed. There is a lot to learn about pilates and it is important that you take time, in the begining, to grow strong foundation roots. This is why I suggest, for the essential level workouts, videos which are the best on the market for their instruction and teaching ability. You will be able to do rapid fire workouts, but doing them at this level will only either injure you, frustrate you, or hinder your understanding of what pilates is about.
Approach pilates with patience and eagerness and you will be on your way to discovering a whole new body.
Peace,
Zoe
Need props to accompany your videos? Check out these recommended pilates props.
Read about these pilates words and terms to prepare you for watching the pilates videos.
