DVD Review: Attitude, Ballet & Pilates Fusion

At first I wondered about reviewing this DVD because much of it isn't directly Pilates, but Pilates has a long history as a companion to the dance world, and I like to explore ]Pilates fusion and vary my workouts now and then.

The back of this DVD says that it is designed with women over 50 in mind. I'm not over 50 but I liked it and I think a lot of you will too. It's perfect for those of us who have had some dance training and miss it, or wish we had a little and don't know where to start. The ballet basics are introduced and reviewed until you get (or remember) them, and there are many good Pilates inspired strength and stretch exercises. I also learned some new moves with the weighted exercise ball, which is used optionally in part of the routine.

I also enjoy the overall tone of this DVD. I find that the ballet-like atmosphere enhances the breath and flow aspects of the mat exercises. Breath and flow are important principles in Pilates that are sometimes hard to address in training. The class members in the DVD are made up of Giorgi's beg-int. students which gives it a nice real-life feel, however you will need to look mostly to Giorgi on points of form. The music is pleasant -- a nice change from the typical techno accompaniment we get in most fitness DVDs, and Bernadette Giorgi teaches with a gentle, encouraging tone.