This is a thirty minute pilates routine. It's geared toward the beginner exerciser, although they do have three different modifiers shown at all times. The production values are excellent - the same as the other Prevention video (Walk Your Way Slim. If you don't have that but have seen Minna's Balanced Blend DVD, or any Crunch DVDs - or even any Natural Journeys DVDs, the production quality/tone/ music is similar to all of these.) I am really happy about acquiring this one because it is just my speed. I am an advanced exerciser in general, but I need my pilates spoon-fed to me. This is perfect. Many of the most basic 'pilates 101' exercises are demonstrated in this. The modifications are perfect-I feel less like a wimp for not doing the advanced versions, because easier mods are given just as much credence. The amount of reps per exercise is very low - maybe 12 reps total. no more than that-which, for some will seem like too few, but for me, it's great because if there were more I would get annoyed (I always feel great after doing pilates, and I realize it's one of the most beneficial exercises for me to do, but it isn't my favorite form of exercise to do).

The instructor is Michelle Dozois, and she is excellent. My only mini qualm about her instruction/cueing is that instead of using visualization techniques to help you achieve proper form (such as 'imagine a string through your spine and out the top of your head, holding you up straight', 'imaging a marble in your belly button...', etc.), she instead will use cues such as 'imprint your spine on the floor, look down at your belly, suck in your abs tight'. The imagery cues actually tend to make me work harder and concentrate more on the exercise, but this is a taste thing, it's just not her style. I mention it because I am sure others have preferences in cueing. She does often uses encouraging words, and she talks a lot. These are both aspects that I enjoy. I would rate this DVD very high for those who have a hard time getting themselves to do 'serious' pilates workouts, but still desire to do some pilates.

Instructor Comments:
I like Michelle. She is a seasoned professional.

Kathy Weller