Search - Stott Pilates: Core Balance - Level 1 on DVD

Solid basic beginner introduction to ball pilates

GF in IL | Chicago, IL United States | 02/28/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This cover indicates this is a level 1 DVD - I assume that means for people without experience doing ball pilates and for people who are not avid exercisers who are already in great physical shape. And, that is what it delivers. The cuing is good, the instructions are clear for the most part, the instructors have calm clear voices, the transitions are reasonable, and the production quality is fine. There is an intro that explains the basics that you can avoid in the future. Since I've done a few classes, I am not sure if the intro explains everything you'd need if you were completely new, bit it seems thorough.

The exercises are appropriate for someone who is capable of doing sit-ups, stretches, etc. That said, some of the harder exercises could not be done by someone who was out of shape in the "core" area.

I avoid some of the exercises because I have a chronic knee condition and the specific segments hurt my knee. I either keep doing the last exercise or fast forward (though I'd much prefer a video that addresses knee injuries so I wouldn't have to fast forward). Of the four ball videos I have (all relatively new to me), this one has the most exercises I can do without hurting my knee. On one I have, I cannot do over half of the exercises, so I appreciate this one.

All in all, it's not perfect, but it's solid and works well for its intended audience. If you are toned, fit or do other ab work or yoga, this is most likely not for you. If you like hyped instruction, a fast workout, or to work at a more frenetic pace, this is also probably not for you. If you like a calmer approach and are recovering from an injury, have been out of condition for awhile, or have never worked out, this will probably be just fine. You may find the end of it a bit challenging, but it gives you something to work up to."