10 Minute Solution - Pilates Perfect Body [DVD]

I haven't been to any pilates classes so I can't compare this with organised classes, but this DVD seems to be a mixture of ballet dance, yoga and strength training. Each 10 minute section uses standing and mat work to target a specific body part:

Arms: you will need light hand weights - this will work your arms, shoulders, upper back and chest.

Perfect belly: lots of original moves here, lots of twisting while you strengthen your core.

bums and thighs: lots of bum lifts and leg raises to tone and lift those problem areas.

Pefect silhouette: a 10 minute section using a mix of the instructor's fav moves to create sexy curves

Perfect stretch: this is designed to make everyday movements more easier and improve your whole posture.

Everytime I use this DVD I am tired afterwards (but in a good way!) - its tough and challenging. Even though you only use light hand weights I am thankful it is only 10 minutes - its that challenging. This presenter is fast becoming one of my favourites as she is so friendly, professional and clear. She emphasizes the correct body position - but without too much chatter. Theres no unnecessary faffing around - you just get on with the exercises.

I think the 10 minute solutions series are ideal for anyone who wants to get fit but hasn't got the time. You can create your own custom workout by programming any of the segments in the order you select. I never get bored as I am always doing something different.

I've been doing Pilates on-and-off for about 5 years now and love the way it strengthens you and gives you good posture. One of the great advantages of Pilates over conventional strength training is you can do it daily, it doesn't add bulk and the moves translate to activity you do in real life. This DVD is an excellent intermediate or add-on to an existing fitness routine. I don't recommend it to anyone who knows nothing about Pilates or a complete beginner as the priniciples are not really covered. It's not that the moves are hard or particularly tricky; they are just difficult if you do them correctly which the point of Pilates! If you are familiar with the principle then this is a very enjoyable DVD.
What you get:
50 minute workout broken down into 5x10 min segments. There is a custom feature which allows you to create a workout of any length and in any order of the each of the 5 segments. The sections cover:
Abs: tough 10 min of upper and lower abs work using classic Pilates moves that are modified to make them tougher.
Arms: classic Pilate's moves like hug-a-tree using light weights.
Legs and bum: hip and leg strengthening moves -mostly floor work.
Silhouette: whole body moves that target arms legs & core simultaneously using ballet and Pilates inspired moves.
Stretch: delicious stretches for the whole body esp. legs hips and lower back with some yoga inspired moves. If I'm really tired I just do this section.

Results:
I've been using this DVD for two months and aim to use it daily but at least 4 times a week - I do the whole DVD in sections throughout the day if I'm busy. I've lost half a stone but I've experienced a more profound inch loss - 3 from each leg, 5 from hips and 4 from waist. I have an almost flat belly and I've had lots of compliments on my good posture and toned figure. I've really enjoyed this DVD and combine it with my other fitness DVDs for a complete workout. I've noticed a real improvement in my flexibility as well, and my backache has all but gone. No 1 DVD will suit everyone but I've always been a fan of Pilates and highly recommend this one. Of all my Pilates workouts this one has given me the best results.

This dvd has got me back into fitness. I practice all the sections on this dvd durring the week and have been going doing so for some months now (some dvds seem great but a week later they become uninsipring) . I like the instructor, Suzanne Bowen. She is clear in what she says and encouraging without being over the top. My favorite section is perfect buns and thights and I do this routine most days.Perfect Belly is quite challanging (but most abs workouts i've seen are. Its achivable but challanging and I always feel proud when I've compelted this workout). I often use Perfect stretch as a cool down from other physical activities. Overall I find a use for this dvd daily, and would recommend it to anyone tring to re shape their body and improve there fittness level.