New York Style Pilates Beginners Workout - DVD Review

Pros

• This video offers a good foundation in the basics of Pilates movement.
• The workout is well paced for the beginner.
• There is a model demonstrating modified versions of the exercises.
• The class develops in a safe and instructive way.
• A portion of the DVD breaks the workout into sections that can be viewed separately.

Cons

• The workout uses (optional) props that a beginning student may not have.
• There are times that the music competes with the instructors voice.

Description

• This is a beginner Pilates workout based on traditional Pilates exercises.
• Expect a slow class, with stretches and core building exercises.
• Some of the exercises incorporate light dumbbells and a yoga block. These props are optional.
• Jonathan Urla is a certified Pilates instructor as well as a certified yoga instructor. He is also the founder of yogilates.

Guide Review - New York Style Pilates Beginners Workout - DVD Review

I like this video because it builds from the fundamental movements of Pilates exercise. It is so important, I think, to ground Pilates training in the basics of Pilates, like Pilates breathing, working from the core, and spinal placement, before moving on to the full mat work. A slower pace and attention to fundamental movements also allow the student to begin to integrate the Pilates principles, such as breath, concentration and flow into their workout.

The pace of the class Jonathan Urla leads here is easy and relaxed, creating an inviting tone for beginners. Even beginners are at different levels of fitness. I think this video will appeal to those who will move through quickly, and to those who need to build gradually or want to return to a slow, focused workout.