Pilates for Lower Body was Kathy Smith’s second pilates workout, and it is identical in style and look to her earlier title, Pilates for Abs. The two are available separately but can now be found in a box set as well. Kathy works out with one background exerciser who shows advanced modifications. They are in a clean, cool room with stone garden-like décor and they each work out on a large, thick mat. Kathy instructs in real-time but there is an occasional voice-over with a more detailed form pointer, and the name of each exercise appears on the screen as it begins. The dvd has info on Kathy’s other workouts, and a text bio but otherwise no extra features.

The workout is about half an hour and goes at a slow, controlled pace. Kathy offers meticulous instruction---closing credits thank the Stott people, and if that’s where Kathy got her training, it shows. I was very impressed with the care and attention to detail compared to other Pilates workouts I have seen.

There is a short warm-up to teach breathing, pelvic tilts, knee folds and the upepr body curl motion, then the workout begins. The first part of the workout involves the hundred, roll-ups, single leg circles, double leg circles, a shoulder bridge, a shoulder bridge with kick and knee squeezes. The second part involves a leg series done entirely on the right side, then repeated on the left side. Those exercises include a front and back kick, ronde de jambe, small circles, up and down, passe, lower leg lift, double lift and grasshopper. Following this sequence, the workout concludes with the mermaid. It was very similar to the Winsor Pilates bun and thigh routine but much better instructed and at a slightly slower pace.

I would not hesitate at all to recommend this workout and it companion tape Pilates for Abs to someone new to pilates who wants a safe and effective introduction that instructs thoroughly, but does not drag or pause. It is a solid, flowing routine and suitable for more advanced users too

Joanna