The Best Pilates Videos Reviewed – Top 3 (Plus 12 Ranked)

Pilates videos are everywhere—from grocery aisles to specialty stores—which makes it hard to know what’s actually worth your time. To cut the noise, I looked at a snapshot of top-selling Pilates titles, worked through each one, and ranked them not on hype but on what you’ll learn and how well you can progress at home.

How the rankings were decided

I scored each title on:

• Teaching clarity & cueing: Are alignment, breath, and transitions explained so you can self-correct?
• Breathing integration: Do cues synchronize breath with spinal/rib movement instead of generic “inhale/exhale”?
• Safety & modifications: Are there regressions/progressions for different bodies and experience levels?
• Flow & balance: Is there a coherent mix of spinal flexion/extension, rotation, lateral work, and hip integration?
• Pacing & structure: Does the session build skills logically without rushing?
• Production quality: Clean audio, helpful camera angles, on-screen prompts when useful.
• Fidelity to Pilates principles: Precision, control, centering, concentration, rhythm.

The longlist — 12 titles ranked (best → still-good)

1. STOTT PILATES: Intermediate Matwork — Moira Stott-Merrithew
2. Pilates Workout for Dummies — Michelle Dozois
3. Beginning Mat Workout — Ana Caban (Gaiam)
4. Crunch: Pick Your Spot Pilates — Ellen Barrett
5. STOTT PILATES: The Secret to Weight Loss
6. Karen Voight: Total Body Training
7. Classical Pilates with Peter Fiasca
8. Hilary Burnett’s Pilates: Intermediate
9. Jennifer Kries: Pilates Method – The Perfect Mix
10. Denise Austin: Hit the Spot Pilates
11. Rapid Results Pilates — 10 Minute Solutions
12. Crunch: Hit the Spot Pilates — Ellen Barrett

Why list 12 when this is a “Top 3”? Because real buyers have different needs. The longlist shows where each title sits for teaching style, pace, and difficulty, so you can choose confidently.

The Top 3 — what you’ll actually get

1) STOTT PILATES: Intermediate Matwork (Moira Stott-Merrithew)

Best for: Learners who want textbook-clean form and a clear path from basic to intermediate work.
What stands out: Impeccable cueing, intelligent sequencing, steady tempo that encourages control rather than momentum.
You’ll gain: Stronger deep core engagement, better scapular control, and the confidence to progress without guessing.
Watch-outs: Not “flashy”; the value is in precision—perfect if you care about doing it right.

2) Pilates Workout for Dummies (Michelle Dozois)

Best for: True beginners or anyone returning after time off.
What stands out: Friendly coaching, crisp explanations, and on-screen reminders that reduce common form errors.
You’ll gain: Solid foundations—neutral spine/pelvis, breath integration, and safe regressions.
Watch-outs: Once you feel fluent, you’ll want an intermediate follow-up (see #1 or #3).

3) Beginning Mat Workout (Ana Caban, Gaiam)

Best for: Visual learners who like upbeat pacing and motivational energy.
What stands out: Clear demonstrations, smooth flow, and just-enough challenge to keep you engaged.
You’ll gain: Enduring core endurance, improved posture, and better body awareness.
Watch-outs: Camera choices occasionally favor aesthetics over micro-details—pair with a technique-heavy title when you’re ready.

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Quick buyer’s guide

• New to Pilates? Start with Dozois (#2), then graduate to Stott-Merrithew (#1).
• Returning or intermediate? Go straight to Stott-Merrithew (#1) or Caban (#3).
• Short on time? “10 Minute Solutions: Rapid Results” (#11) is convenient snackable practice—use as an add-on, not your only session.
• Prefer classical flavor? Try Peter Fiasca (#7) for traditional pacing and emphasis.
• Want variety & energy? Crunch titles (#4, #12) and Denise Austin (#10) deliver approachable sessions with lively presentation.

How to get better results with any video

• Practice 2–4 sessions/week; consistency beats marathons.
• Keep a training log (duration, focus, which cues clicked).
• Progress one variable at a time: range, tempo, spring/lever challenge, or base of support.
• If discomfort persists, pause and consult a professional; then re-introduce movement with measured steps.

Conclusion
Great Pilates videos teach you to feel alignment, breathe with purpose, and move with control. Choose one that fits your level and learning style, then show up regularly—the upgrades in posture, strength, and body awareness follow.