Customer Reviews

The Method - Pilates: Dynamic Firming and Flexing [VHS]

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Each of the workouts on this tape (each about 15-20 minutes) is a great way to wake up my stiff lower back each morning. I have found that since I started doing at least one of the segments daily, I feel less stiff and definitely more flexible. The segments incorporate some basic Yoga and other stretching positions that are easy and effective. The instructor, Lakey, is very thorough in her explanations on how to execute the moves. This video is also part of a 3-part set of the The Method's "Dynamic" series, which I am also using to get this body moving. Anyone familiar with The Method's other videos and have found them a bit advanced, would do well to start with this series first. I would recommend this to anyone who thinks that because they have aches and pains they cannot exercise. This is a great way to get started.

I purchased two Pilates videos last January and began using them on regular basis. The Denise Austin video is better at strength building. Occasionally I use Dynamic Firming and Flexing to vary the muscle groups, but I never feel as if I have received the full benefit from the time spent.

Many of the "Method" workout tapes have Pilates but in this case only a small portion is dedicated to the Pilates, it is mostly stretching. That's right stretching. This whole tape is stretching and not like the "Precision Toning" tape where Pilates is used but like before you get moving, painfully slow and repetitive stretching. I wasn't expecting this to be so basic, I was expecting just Pilates.

It's a shame the packaging is so badly done because the video itself is quite nice - perfect for light exercise before bedtime. The model on the front cover, who never appears in the video, is wearing sneakers; sneakers are not necessary. But you do need a stretchy exercise band or a long towel, which is never mentioned on the box, as far as I can tell. The last two segments are mislabeled. Segment 2 is primarily lower body (not upper) and vice-versa for segment 3. This is more of a mild toning and stretching video, which is a letdown for people who believe they are getting a "DYNAMIC firming and flexing" program (as the title implies). Lakey gives clear instructions, exhibits a positive and motivating personality, and all the demonstrators use good form. The music, light drum and harp, is soft and pleasant. I really do like this video. If it were properly labeled I'd give it 4 stars.