Complete Mat Workout

In reading some of the other reviews, yes, this DVD does have a fast pace; however, the goal of the Pilates method is for the entire matwork routine to be performed smoothly and with a great sense of flow and rhythm--not as a collection of separate, start-and-stop exercises.

I appreciate that the atmosphere of the workout is not hyped-up, with pounding dance-mix music or a super-perky instructor. The emphasis is only on what's at hand--the workout. I also enjoy the voiced-over instruction as opposed to receiving it from the person who is also demonstrating the movements. The speaker addresses you as though he were in the room with you, checking your form. In this way, it feels very personalized to me.

If you are an absolute beginner, I would suggest that you watch the various levels of the matwork first. Watch it a couple of times, even, maybe trying a couple of the exercises as practice on your own. Once you have the general idea of what the different movements are, then proceed to work with the DVD on your pace and fluidity.

If you already have a foundation in the principles of this exercise method, then this is the DVD to buy to further your ability. It's not watered down, slowed down, or commercialized; it's just Pilates the way Joseph Pilates created it. I myself can't wait to continue working with this DVD to improve my technique and my strength--it's really given me something to shoot for.

In this modern world, it honestly hurts my soul to see Pilates move so far away from its original roots in Joseph Pilates' NYC studio. Yet, I feel this video captures the essence of the original Pilates method.

I was, of course, skeptical when someone suggested buying this video. But I have to say this DVD is a nice surprise. I take it on vacation to the beach, and to the mountains when I travel. Watching this video brings back many memories of taking lessons with Joseph Pilates' brilliant and trusted teachers.

Joseph Pilates said he was 50 years ahead of his time. He was correct. I assume he would be happy about how many people are practicing his method, but I am sure Joseph Pilates would be saddened by all the variations that exist today.

I am certainly happy that Classical Pilates has preserved the wonderful tradition in the way Joseph Pilates meant it to be. You can't recreate the wheel, and Classical Pilates does NOT even try to recreate it. They just do the method justice by doing it well.

Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents with the rest of us who love the Pilates method.

Anyway, my PT said I should take Pilates. I was willing to try anything to help my aching back. This video starts off slowly, which was really important. After practicing the pre-basic workout for several weeks, I went on to the full basic workout. This was invigorating and it moves quickly. Now I'm practicing intermediate.

All in all, this video has helped me fully recover. I recommend this product to my friends and work associates. Thank you for making this video!