I am thrilled to finally say that I “get” pilates thanks to this video. In the past few years, I have tried a few other videos and taken a beginning pilates class – it was just OK. Not sure if it was due a different level of fitness, lack of time for a longer workout at the moment or just a need to find something different – I am LOVING pilates now!!

The video features Hilary Burnett demonstrating and narrating throughout the routine. The background is exceptionally pleasant……very light guitar music, candles, marble floor, pillows all in rich earthy colors. The only thing missing is the glass of wine. Just kidding! The moves are all pretty traditional pilates matwork. Here’s the program:

The first 4 minutes focus on proper techniques for breathing, locating your “core” and leg placement (the pilates ‘V”). Hilary then starts the program…..

Roll-up/5x

Single leg circles/5x clockwise, 5x reverse-switch legs

Rolling like a ball/5x

Stomach Series:
Single leg stretch /8x

Double leg stretch/6x

Scissors/6x

Double leg stretch/5x

Twist/5x

Spine stretch/5x


Open Leg Rocker/5x

Corkscrew/5x clockwise, reverse

Saw/5x per side

Swan/7x

Single leg Kick/ 8x

Double leg kick/10x

Neck pull/3x

Shoulder Bridge/4x each leg

Spine twist/6x

Jack Kife/3x

Side Kicks: each side
Front kicks/8x

Ceiling kicks/5x

Teasers/3x

Hip circles/6x

Swimming –10 seconds

Seal/5x

Hilary then continues with some light stretching-neck, side, hamstring, back/spine and straddle stretch.

I first started with Hilary's Beginning video but then switched to the intermediate one. After a few times with the intermediate routine, I finally began to feel my core and realized that I was making progress. I now do it 2-3x per week and I feel stronger and even feel leaner. Pilates definitely is a great compliment to my current workout program and I am glad that I stuck with it. Give this video a try. (or at least 5-6 tries!!)

Instructor Comments:
Hilary is a wonderful instructor who is very thorough but yet enjoyable. Her form is impeccable and elegant. Hilary's visual clues really helped me focus on performing correctly....."up through water, down through clay", "grow taller with each breath", "twist like your torso is made is cold taffy". Add the music, the setting and the program and you have a wonderful workout.

Lisa Hawes