Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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22 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Fast moving Pilates-based exercises, July 8, 2004
Overall, I enjoy Liz Gillies approach to some of the Pilates mat-based exercises. While in general I prefer the classic sequence done in the classic manner, sometimes it's nice to change things up a bit.While mostly Pilates-based, Ms. Gillies also makes use of her dance background, particularly in the Buns section. A few lunges and cat-based positions are used here (some of that may actually be from yoga), but she does include some variations on the Leg Circles and Pelvic Lifts. The Legs/Thighs section includes some variations on the Pilates Side Kicks and some ballet floor barre (e.g., developpe and passe). This is a fast moving section- so much so that even Gillies' form seemed to suffer a little bit. However, you can definitely feel it working. The Arms section is Gillies' variation on the Standing Sculpting Series from the Pilates syllabus. She includes some variation on more traditional weight-lifting and does some of the work while balancing on the balls of the feet. I like that approach- it definitely forces you to concentrate on your powerhouse while working your arms. The Abs section includes variants on the Hundred, the Roll Up and the Pilates Abdominal Series. This section more than any other on the tape was targeted towards those new to Pilates- she does a lot of non-traditional "setups" and then modifies many of the exercises. Still challenging, but not necessarily what you get from a more classic Pilates workout. The Total Body section is my favorite. This section includes a lot of work for the upper body- planks, side planks, etc.- so much so that you could alternate it with the Arms section. This is a nice addition to your Pilates collection, especially for those interested in "Target Toning", but you may want to supplement with some more classical Pilates from Ana Caban or Jennifer Kries.
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14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Targeted Pilates, April 9, 2004
I am a committed video exerciser - after a long day at work, I'm just too tired to drive to the gym, but I can manage to put on some sweatpants and turn on the TV. Pilates is the "latest" exercise fad (actually been around awhile, but enjoying a resurgence in popularity.) I've tried a number of Pilates videos with varying results. This is one I will keep and use! There are FIVE different sections - one for abs, one for buns, one for arms (using weights), one for legs (lunges here!) and one for the total body. Each section is 10 minutes long (or 10 minutes short, depending on your perspective), making it easy to squeeze in a quick workout with so many other demands on your time. Each section targets a specific "problem" area (backs of arms, saddle bag thighs, etc.) which lets you focus on your own "areas of concern." At about 5-minute point, when I just want to drop dead on the map (hey, I'm working HARD!), a little on-screen clock pops up to let tell me there are "only" five minutes to go, then four, etc. - knowing I have just "XX minutes left" helps keep me motivated. This is one tape you will always be able to fit into your busy schedule. BTW, I usually do the four "target" sections at one time; I leave the "total body" section for times when I really DO have only 10 minutes to spare!
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12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Liz Gillies: A Versatile Program and For Me A Pleasant Surprise! , March 5, 2006
I bought this DVD because I liked the idea of being able to have those 10 minute segments to mix and match. I like to do Pilates/Core work before my daily Yoga practice and I like to have lots of programs to keep things interesting.
When I first put it on, I must admit that I was actually put off because of the whole "Pseudo disco" music vibe which reminded me of an aerobics routine. I was afraid I made a mistake purchasing it, but I figured I'd give it a shot and see how I liked it.
The next time I put in the DVD I was on my mat doing the actual program and to my surprise (and relief:)), I totally loved it! :)
Lesson learned, "don't judge a program til you do it!"
Liz Gillies does a masterful job of separating out various elements and designing sequences of exercises to focus on specific body areas. One of the things that impresses me so much is how you can start with any of the segments and she moves you incrementally through the movements. She always starts with simple movements, warming you up to prepare you for the more intense and complex movements to come.
Also, I find Liz Gillies to have a very lively yet friendly and positive personality which is extremely enjoyable to practice with!
I have used with this DVD many times now and I come away just as happy with it every time. In fact I did it again this morning and felt that I wanted to share with amazon customers my feelings with it while it was fresh in my mind.
It's probably best to have some experience of Pilates before doing this (I'd recommend Stott Pilates Basics DVD for excellent and precise instruction) as there are some more advanced Pilates exercises contained on this DVD, but once you have a good feel for Pilates then this should be easy to incorporate as she shows modifications for almost all of the exercises. Just take your time, watch it a few times if you need to and don't push too hard.
Highly recommended!
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