Pilates for Abs

Ana Caban
Year Released: 2004

Categories: Pilates/Core Strength


This video is led by Ana Caban, and it is probably her most challenging workout. In consists entirely of matwork and begins immediately with the hundred exercise. Ana then moves through a traditional matwork sequence, including moves such as the roll-up, the roll-over, rolling like a ball, the series of five, and the teaser. For many of the moves, Ana adds a more challenging twist--eg, performing several of the series of five exercises with no arms, doing the open-legged rocker with closed legs as well, etc. Because this is an abs-focused workout, the Pilates side kick series and back extension moves are not included. Ana ends the workout with a unique combination move which is a compilation of rolling like a ball, open-legged rocker, the teaser, and lowering down a rope; she then ends with a few brief stretches to bring the workout in at just under 24 minutes. Although Ana works out with an assistant, Tara, who shows modifications for some of the movements, this is an intermediate to advanced Pilates workout and should not be attempted by those new to Pilates.

Instructor Comments:
Ana has a very pleasant manner and offers good instruction, although I prefer her live instructor to the voiceover used here. Also, she gives less form pointers than usual during this workout given that it is at a more advanced level. Her sometimes-assistant, Tara, joins her for this workout, which is filmed in a pretty outdoor beach setting.

Beth C (aka toaster)

04/11/2005