Pilates Method: 3 Dimensional Toning incorporates dance, yoga, and Pilates to create a different and rhythmic workout. This 50-minute program is divided into two sections: a 30-minute Pilates-based set and a 20-minute core... more »-conditioning set. The first of these workouts centers on limbering movements and lengthening poses. Yoga-like forward bends, deep lunges, and stretches aid in elongating muscles, while the ballet and modern dance choreography keep the tempo up beat. The second portion focuses on the core muscles of the abdomen and low back (in addition to the spine and naval connection). Breathing, body alignment, and balance are taught throughout this toning section, and students are encouraged to be aware of body symmetry. The legs and gluteus get some attention here and every exercise can be intensified with the contraction of major muscles. Overall, this double-whammy format works on many levels to tone and strengthen muscles, while using a full range of motion to aid in flexibility. In Pilates Method: Precision Pilates, Jennifer Kries uses the same techniques from her standout The Method: Pilates Precision Toning but coordinates them into three main segments focusing on upper body, lower body, and overall flexibility. While the main focus is on Pilates-based technique, Kries combines ballet and yoga movements in all three workouts to create an exciting routine that is challenging to all muscle groups but easy to follow. Set to a groovy Latin drum beat, the first two segments work on strengthening the major muscles of the arms, back, legs, and, of course, the abdominals, while the final stretching segment can be a little daunting in light of Kries's remarkable flexibility. The best thing about Kries's class is that you may not feel like you are working hard, but you will be sore the next day, as long as you focus your attention and listen to your body. The class really emphasizes breathing as a way to intensify your workout, and it is absolutely critical that you follow the directions precisely in order to feel the true benefits of the routines.« less
Genres:Exercise & Fitness Sub-Genres:Pilates Studio:KOCH RECORDS Format:DVD - Color DVD Release Date: 09/25/2001 Theatrical Release Date: 01/01/2001 Release Year: 2001 Screens: Color Number of Discs: 2 SwapaDVD Credits: 2 Total Copies: 0 Members Wishing: 0 Edition: Box set MPAA Rating: NR (Not Rated) Languages:English
Movie Reviews
Great Combination
sparkle420 | Allentown, PA United States | 03/07/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I had the Pilates Perfect Mix DVD and decided to add these videos to my workout because I liked the other so much and was getting great results. Each of these videos offers a different type of pilates training and used together, I am now able to make a different workout each day depending on what I want to concentrate on. I love all 3 videos and am very happy with the results of toning, cardiovascular and stretch."
Not for beginners
08/29/2002
(3 out of 5 stars)
"This DVD is not for everyone. I have tried pilates and yoga but am not a dancer. Although it is interesting to see how Kries puts all three together it is very difficult to follow. She does not give instruction on the form nor does she give you much notice when changing from one move to another. If I had never practiced pilates or yoga I would be lost. If a beginner tried this they would not know how to do the moves properly. If you have experience in all three areas you may like this DVD but don't try it unless you're already familiar with yoga and pilates."
Pilates fan
01/17/2003
(2 out of 5 stars)
"This should not be labelled as a pilates workout. There is really only a small section with a condensed mat workout. The rest is very flowy, dancy low-impact exercise. Some of which could be hard on the knees if done improperly. Lots of deep plie type stuff. It might work for you if this is the exercise you want, but if you are looking for PILATES, don't buy this. I wish I hadn't. Even the beginning Gaiam series with "perky" Ana Caban is better."
U will start getting a lean, toned result.
01/11/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"You will definitely see your posture and notice your body toning and start getting leaner.
I recommend you buy Pilates Workout for Dummies first, if this is the first time you do Pilates.
She incorporates Yoga and Ballet. She also, informs you on the importance of breathing and contraction of your stomach. I really enjoy this workout. You will sweat, and notice a difference.
The only reason I did not give it 5 Stars, was that she moves from one exercise to another without explaining them. This frustrated me at first, because I had to constantly stare at
the TV to make sure I was doing it right.
But thanks to Pilates for dummies I now do this workout smoothly."
Great workouts, pilates or not
09/28/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"If you're interested in the basic moves of yoga, pilates or ballet--or if you're looking for some variety in any of those disciplines--this is a great set. Jennifer Kries touches on the basics of all three, offering a solid workout in the process.The 3-Dimensional Toning Video (my favorite) offers two workouts: 1. The first is a 30 minute, low-impact cardio workout that begins with very nice stretches, continues with ballet, and ends with yoga. It says that it's "Pilates-based," but you won't find any classic pilates mat moves here. Regardless, the workout feels good and should make beginners and intermediates work up a good sweat.
2. The second segment is a 20-minute core conditioning workout that is mainly pilates matwork. The moves are fairly basic and won't be much of a challenge to those advanced in pilates, but provide a good, quick workout/introduction for the rest of us.The second disc, Precision Pilates, contains 3 20-minute workouts:
The first two use pilates methods to sculpt the upper body and lower body, respectively. The upper body workout uses light handweights. Both require few reps, but still leave a slight burn in the muscles they're working. The last sgement on this disc is a yoga-inspired "Flow and Flexibility" workout, which provides a solid cool down or stretch.Both DVDs are divided into chapters, which makes it easy to use this set for a combination of cardio, sculpting, or stretch. All of the workouts leave me feeling a little more balanced and lean, without feeling knocked out. Jennifer Kries is likeable and motivating, though her cueing is not always great. You will need to watch her the first few times you do the routine. She does use terminology from ballet and yoga, but she explains the motions--you don't need to know the terms.Because the routines only touch on ballet, yoga and pilates, you might not get as intense a workout as you would if you just focused on one. Also, if you're very familiar with one discipline, that section might seem too easy. If you want a good mix, however, this is a great set."