The Pilates Body: The Ultimate At-Home Guide to Strengthening, Lengthening, and Toning Your Body--Without Machines Reviews

• A second review after using the book for over 6 months

  
  By A3S87ZOPB3UM9N on 2000-09-09
  Phenomenal and most of all do-able. This Pilates book has the best explanations and illustrations of all the ones out there. I know, I was in the mall and I checked them out.

  I bought this book over 6 months ago, as I felt I needed more than just a regular workout on an elliptical machine. I wrote a review on it shortly after I started and I wanted to update that as a number of people have emailed me for more information.

  Some background. I'm 43, female and 25% overweight, not exactly your svelte exerciser, so I knew I needed a routine that wouldn't hurt but would would get results. I work in an office and nothing is worse than sitting at your desk all day aching from the previous day's exercises.

  I started as recommended with Modified beginner exercises, the seven basic exercises and did this for about 3 weeks. No pain but some tightness I could feel in my abdomen. As I became confident, I moved onto the regular beginner exercises. Basically, I used my ability to do the "hundred" as a measure of when I was able to move on. I could see my progress from day to day. It was really neat. I did the exercises at least 5 days/week.

  As time went on I added more exercises from the full program. One or two each week depending on if they were similar or really hard to do. Some were, some weren't. Still no pain. I am now doing almost all (over 95%) of all, but the advanced exercises at least 5 days/week along with my elliptical machine routine and some weight lifting for my arms. I don't have time, I make time. In my opinion, this is as important as paying my bills. In someways, this is just what I'm doing.

  One question, I have been asked is am I seeing muscle definition. The answer is definitely yes. I am still overweight. I'm working on that too (I've lost 25 pounds through just exercising), so I'm not seeing a washboard stomach, as the fat above the muscles are still obscuring them, but I can see definition of my ribs and hips, along with distinct muscles in between. This is nothing I've ever seen before, even in my skinny high school days.

  One interesting measure of how far I've gone is watching my teenage children trying to mock me doing the exercises. Both are slim and in good shape, but neither can dive in and do the intermediate exercises that I'm doing with the same ease I am. In fact they are shocked they can't do more than a couple repetitions. Not because it hurts so much, but because they have not build up the strength.

  That is another thing that I mentioned in my previous review, these exercises provide the feedback you need to continue on. You see it in each day in each exercise as they become easier. Also you see it in your day to day tasks.

  For me, it was an excellent investment.
  
  

• Best book I've seen on Pilates -- Incredible, Warm, Thorough

  
  By A1T9IX9Q7Q9H63 on 2000-05-11
  I've been interested in Pilates for a long time, but don't live anywhere near a trainer (and couldn't afford it anyway)

  I read article after article until I finally purchased Sean P. Gallagher's book on Pilates.

  I was so disappointed.

  There was so much to concentrate on for each exercise, and so many to go through. And no matter what I did it meant purchasing expensive equipment within a few weeks (thousands of dollars worth...) I tried for a few days and then gave up in disgust.

  Then I read a review for "The Pilates Body." What can I say, everything that has been said is true!

  Siler recommends taking all the time you need to learn the movements, she provides modified exercises for beginners to build up to the actual exercises and she gives a much more indepth account of Pilates system than I've ever seen before.

  The information on visualization and the mental aspect of a workout is not present in any other materials I have seen.

  There is no strict program provided (a plus or bonus depending on how you look at it...) instead the reader is encouraged to progress at their own pace, not moving on until they have the previous movements down. Finally, instead of trying to sell the expensive equipment, Siler is the ONLY Pilates trainer I've EVER seen who says that the original system never had equipment, and that the matwork alone can give a complete workout.

  I now have confidence in my ability to perform the exercises properly and effectively (though it'll take a long time, I think it will be worth it)

  This has become one of my favorite books, it is so well written and effective, and most of all Warm and friendly.
  
  

• An excellent explanation of Pilates

  
  By on 2000-01-31
  Pilates is a highly-touted exercise program used by some of the world's most admired bodies: those of dancers, models, and actors and actresses. Although Wellness and Fitness Centers have entered the American marketplace on a grand scale, there is a scarcity of certified Pilates instructors. This means that there is a real need for books and videos introducing the Pilates program to the public.

  "The Pilates Body" is an excellent source of information about this complex workout system. It is complex because it involves unique postures and movements that utilize several muscle groups to perform. Breathing is important, as is the positioning of various parts of the body such as one's chin, feet, and shoulders.

  "The Pilates Body" provides detailed information about these exercises. Brooke Siler starts out with an inspiring and motivating introduction, in which she emphasizes the importance of "combating the mind's self-deprecation" in order to succeed. She covers the fundamental principles of Pilates matwork, lists "key elements to mastering the mat," and answers frequently asked questions.

  Devoted solely to matwork that can be done at home, the book is organized by type of exercise: modified beginners, the full program, advanced extras, standing arms, and cooldown. Exercises are categorized by difficulty: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and very advanced. Step by step instructions are included, as are sequences of photographs that depict a model performing the poses. Stiler includes a visual image to guide each posture; this is illustrated in the upper right corner of each page with, for example, the picture of a mermaid, of someone with a balloon tied around her chest, or someone with straps holding down her legs as she rolls up. In this way Stiler emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection for Pilates success.

  Further instructional points include the goal of the exercise, keys to success, and no-nos to avoid. The back of the book includes a directory of Pilates Studios, a glossary of terms, and information about the author.

  This book is so thorough that it should answer any question about Pilates that may arise in an individual's mind, except for one: how are the equipment and accessories associated with Pilates used? That answer is found in "The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning" by Sean P. Gallagher and Romana Kryzanowska. The two books used together are an excellent resource for the would-be Pilates practitioner who does not have a Studio nearby. "The Pilates Body" is highly recommended for anyone interested in this compelling fitness program.
  
  

• The Pilates Body

  
  By A10N4ZSI0YOKO on 2000-01-13
  Ms. Siler's book is probably the most inspirational exercise/spiritual motivator that I've come across in a while. Siler has developed a program that is easy to follow, feels great and (most important) is something I really enjoy fitting into my day. I've dabbled in Pilates before but since moving to a small town, I haven't found the program locally. I'm delighted to have access to it again through The Pilates Body--the exercises are easy to follow and the book is well laid out. Check out the "no-nos" that alert you to ways you may be doing the exercises incorrectly. Most exercise books don't include these types of tips. I highly recommend Siler's book.
  
  

• Pilates can change your life

  
  By on 2000-04-05
  The Pilates Method changed my life, in more ways than I can list. The changes in my body, esp. my torso & arms are amazing. I'm extremely flexible and walk taller. I started noticing improvements within 4 sessions.

  However I have to tell you that I came to the program as a hardcore runner with 7% bodyfat, so the changes in definition were v. obvious and immediate.

  I used to run 35 miles a week and work out 6 days a week, stretching, push-ups & sit-ups. I used to do 300 crunches a night, it would take me about 30 minutes.

  Now, while I still run (it's one of my passions) I do Pilates in the evening. A full session will only take about 20 minutes. Done gracefully, with elegance, precision & speed, it's comparable to circuit training.

  While I love running, it's primary benefits are cardio and to the major muscles. Pilates exercises ALL the muscles in your body, it tones, strengthens and stretches you efficiently without tiring you out. In fact, a Pilates session done correctly will energize and refresh you, it's better than a double espresso in the morning.

  I am continually amazed that Joe Pilates could create such a revolutionary system, and plan to get certified so I can share this program with others.

  One day I'll write my own book. In the meantime, Brooke's book seems the friendliest for beginners. The instructions are clear and precise, and the photographs & models are inspiring.

  Now then: navel to spine, stretch those arms, anchor than neck, breathe deep (deeper) and begin!
  
  

• The Pilates Body
  By A1DJ7O026IQLSH on 2000-02-01
  The clear, well written directions in The Pilates Body led me to immediately retrain my breathing. As I sat at my desk at work I could practice. Then I could easily recall that simple direction as I stood to walk. By concious awareness of the directions given by Ms. Sidler, I was able to eliminate pain from my knee and arthritic hip. And that's before I even got home where I could practice the basic exercises in The Pilates Body.

  I found it easy to look at the pictures and directions while moving through the routines.

  I especially appreciate the beginning beginners section. It encourages me to go on when I might become overwhelmed by the full routine. The conditions in my left leg have made most exercise difficult or impossible. But with the above mentioned improvement, I have recommended the book to others, and plan to give it to my daughters.

  The choice of paper stock use for the cover and body of the book is so enjoyable to touck; it just adds one more dimension to the total pleasure this books brings to my life.
  
  

• A novice veiw point - the best Pilates Book!
  By AGG9C66TOLJZB on 2000-12-14
  As a complete novice on Pilates and its background I started looking at all the books I could on the subject a few months ago. I had read about Pilates in the Daily Telegraph - the first time I had ever heard of the programme.

  There are two points I have to make as a novice - 1 -I'd never heard of Pilates before - and so I wanted to read as much as I could and try things out before I bought and - 2 - there are some very very good books out there on the subject . So I am definitely not an expert opinion here but just an enthusiastic amateur. And I am enthusiastic about it.

  First off - if you haven't tried Pilates before - like I hadn't - I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by just how easy and fun the exercises are. Every book I read emphasised the need to move up the level of difficulty slowly - which means I have made very noticeable improvements, but I really enjoy the exercises each day. Its a bit like yoga and certainly uses some parts of yoga in the exercises - only I find I domy Pilates exercises where I never really liked yoga that much.

  Why do I like this book better than the others I used? Well I found the programme and the explanations which Siler used the best. Each Pilates book I read seemed to have slightly different combinations of exercises and different orders - but all the exercises are essentially the same so I don't know if there is really that much basic difference in them. In the end I just preferred the order and the presentation of Siler's book. She has all the philosophy of and explanations of Pilates in the first few pages. What I liked best though was the is a two page 'order' of exercises - where each exercise is a small picture to remind you of where you are up to.

  Following that each exercise is given a double page spread with one page devoted to what to do put in simple bullet points, and the facing page a bullet point list of things to concentrate on while doing the exercise.

  So while I did like many of the other Pilates books I found this one the best.
  
  

• Worthwhile Investment
  By on 2000-03-12
  After reading about the Pilates Method in magazines for months now, I decided to try it for myself. When I began to look through the book, the models really discouraged me. They looked so athletic and flexible. I kept thinking "theres's no way I'm going to look like this!" But then I actually began reading the book; the introduction and thorough explanation of the Pilates Method. The more I read, the more I was incouraged to start. I started out with the modified beginner exercises and within the first week, my legs and stomach felt tighter, yet flexible. I found this book an excellent way to introduce and instruct the Pilates Method. Each exercise is clearly described and pictured. Sure, the Advanced exercises are still intimidating, but I definitely feel better about myself at having started the program. I actually look forward to exercising every morning before work. Pilates has also helped relieve tension in my lower back. I would encourage anyone who is bored with sit ups and aerobics to read Brooke's book and try the Pilates Method. You'll be glad you did!
  
  
• BROOKE SILER DESERVES A MEDAL FOR WRITING THIS BOOK
  By A1HIAXZ7RWRZ3E on 2000-06-06
  As the owner of a Pilates based studio in Los Angeles, I have been looking for ages for a book to recommend to our clients at ABSOLUTION, especially for those who can't afford to work out with us but who would like the benefits of a Pilates-based workout. It is with extreme pleasure that we endorse this book with every fiber of our hard-earned PILATES bodies!

  Beginning the practice of Pilates can be a life changing, truly joyful experience that does not require a model's figure or loads of cash... Who needs the added stress? FINALLY There is an instructor capable of translating (with boundless enthusiasm) the exercises for all who are willing to take the time to learn. As she explains, all that is needed is a positive attitude and enough space to stretch out your body at full length. ABSOLUTION is dedicated to sharing Pilates with all who wish to try it, so we will continue to insist that all our instructors and clients read this book if they are to understand the spirit in which Joe Pilates created this fantastic form of excercise. We have copies all over the studio. BRAVO!
  
  

• A User-Friendly Guide to Pilates Workout
  By on 2000-03-17
  I bought this book based on the reviews I read here, and I am happy to report that the reviews were right! This is a very user-friendly, extremely informative book for somebody like me, who has been interested in knowing what the recent craze is all about. Low-key, but full of practical information about the exercise and its philosophy behind it, it inspired me to start this very promising workout. It explains each movement thoroughly and shows the entire flow of exercise, using photos. I cannot wait to master all the moves. I hope the author will make a video based on this book soon!
  
  
• Helpful but not for beginners
  By AHHC2HOQAPFN3 on 2000-12-27
  After taking a few Pilates matwork and allegro classes, I was fairly confident that I had gotten down the basics and would feel comfortable trying some of the matwork at home. This book, unfortunately, was a lot tougher to follow than I would have liked. It offers a reasonably good introduction to the principles of Pilates, but is woefully inadequate in its actual instructions. For instance, each exercise is broken down into steps, but the precise nature of the motions is not really described. When Siler suggests that you repeat a certain part of the exercise, it's not clear where you're supposed to start over (from the top? repeat the step?); the illustrations show models in certain positions, which are helpful, but they only show two pictures per exercise, so it's not clear how you should be moving from point A to point B. For an exercise method that stresses fluidity, rhythm, and form, this book is better used as a guide than as an instruction manual. And it should definitely be used in conjunction with classes, so that an instructor can correct your posture, alignment, etc.
  
  
• Well Worth the Money
  By on 2000-08-10
  The Pilates Body is my introduction to Pilates as a form of exercise. I had heard about Pilates before, mainly in association with the 'apparatus' that Joseph Pilates invented years ago, and have always had a slight regret that I could never try out this method. For some reason, it never occurred to me that *anyone* can use Pilates. I suppose I was too busy running on treadmills and lifting weights everyday to even look into Pilates seriously.

  Brooke Siler's book has almost a perfect score of reviews, in case you haven't noticed. That was the reason I picked this one -- the only reason. It was all the same to me, because I had never picked up a Pilates book. Now here I am contributing to that perfect review score. This book is a great intro to Pilates. The book and myself are the only instructors I have, and that's enough for me. As Siler says, if it feels like you're doing it wrong, then you probably are. Pilates, after all, stresses natural movements. In nature, we rarely work only one part of our bodies (ie. biceps, triceps) at a time. Why, then, do we exercise ourselves in this unnatural, comparatively useless manner?

  These exercises are all about balance, control, and flexibility, three concepts that are unexpendable in a human body. Pilates makes you feel as though you are actually working with your body instead of dragging it around with you. It sincerely does change the way you maneuver yourself around in your everyday life. That's a strange concept, one that can only be understood with the practice of this method, and I highly recommend this book as a tool. You'll be concentrating so closely on how much better you feel, that you'll look in the mirror one day and be shocked at how much different you look, especially around the stomach. --That's a ton of fun, a feeling worth much more than fifteen bucks.
  
  

• This book is the best to get you jumpstarted!
  By A120D4TKT4M0GB on 2000-06-20
  I initially used another book to begin my pilates workout. It never got me started. Then I found Siler's. This is the greatest book to walk a novice through the workout. I loved the fact that I could begin slowly (initially 15 min at a time) until I felt ready to add more. It has given me the confidence I needed to continue with the workout. And each time I have completed the movements, I feel GREAT! No book will give you the same results as if you had a live trainer, but this books sure seems to be close. I whole heartedly recommend this book if you are looking for a different way to use your body to feel wonderful. After working out in a gym with weights for over 7 yrs, this is a fabulous addition to wake up my off-gym days. After 15-30 minutes, I feel taller, more graceful and agile! And who doesn't want that! Keep in mind it takes time and patience to accomplish anything work having; this is worth it!
  
  
• One of the better books so far...
  By A3NVL3I8ZUAZKP on 2000-07-12
  As a teacher of Pilates-based exercises I suggest people use this book as a reference guide only--not to learn Pilates from scratch. The exercises are clearly laid out, and her visual images are certainly helpful. However, the explanations of the fundamentals leave out key pieces. While she discusses them to a certain extent, she does not go into enough depth, which means that without a teacher, a lay person would not fully "get it". I wish she went into the basics of the anatomy of the "powerhouse", explaining the low back muscles, psoas, and transversalis. Without fully understanding these principles, most people end up using their abs in the wrong way. Therefore, I recommend this book only to people who have a personal trainer as well.
  
  
• A worth-while addition to your Pilates references.
  By A4NDKOP0JQPF2 on 2004-09-29
  When I was trying to decide which ONE book to buy for learning the Pilates matwork, it was quite overwhelming. There are scads of books out there on the subject - I think I read the Amazon reviews on over 100 books with 'Pilates' in the title. Some were explanations of how to do the original matwork, like this book, and some were spin-offs on Pilates - same name, different program. It seemed that the top two contenders in popularity were this book and the one by Alycea Ungaro, called 'Pilates: Body in Motion'. I bought that one first, and then decided to buy this one to compare. This is my take on it: Ungaro's book 'Pilates: Body in Motion' has much more detailed photographs of the exercises, complete explanations to go with each step-by-step photo, a very full explanation of how-to, what to watch out for, tips, pointers, etc. In contrast, The Pilates Body by Brooke Siler has fewer pictures to guide you through the exercises. There is a full written explanation of how to do each exercise, with basically the same information as the other book, although sometimes she gives instructions that are not found in Ungaro's book (also, Ungaro sometimes gives tips that are not in Siler's book). The advantage in this book, and the reason I recommend buying it ALSO, is that it has more thorough coverage of advanced exercises - many are included here that are not in Ungaro's book. I would recommend that Ungaro's book be used for initial learning, and this book should be added for more explanation on how to do the exercises, plus for additional exercises in the advanced levels. Another thing I like about this book is that all the exercises are in the sequence of the advanced program, so you can just flip through the book in order, and leave out the exercises that are too advanced for you, where-as in the other book, the beginner exercises go together, then a useful sequential beginner routine is shown. After that, the intermediate exercises are shown grouped together, and then the sequential intermeidate routine is shown, but if you want to refere to any of the the detailed teaching pages of the beginner exercises that are also part of the intermediate routine (which builds on and incorporates the beginner routine), you have to flip back to the beginner section, and the same is true when you get to the advanced exercises. In other words, in Ungaro's book, the exercises are grouped by level, whereas in Siler's book, the exercises for the complete advanced routine are sequential, but labeled as beginner, intermediate or advanced, because this is a program that builds on the previous levels. This book can be obtained for a good price 'used' in Amazon, which is how I purchased it. I would recommend both of these excellent books for a more complete understanding of how to do with exercises.
  
  
• Better to have this book than not even though it's okayyy!
  By on 2000-12-14
  I bought this book because I'm interested in Pilates, don't have a Pilates instructor nearby, the reviews of this book are *all* enthusiastic,and because the book just plain looks great. The body of the person doing the v-shape on the cover-wow! If Pilates can do that-gimme gimme gimme!

  Ok, so now I have the book. The book is even better when it's right there in your hands. A matt cover, great use of colour (the red and orange) contrasts nicely with the beautiful black and white photo. The black and white photos are very cool and the bodies admirable. I'd buy it just for eye-candy. All the models in this book are female; it would've been nice to see a guy doing the exercises too, but I guess a guy would get hold of this book despite that lack....

  All in all, I think the text in the book is too breezy and so I definitely think that Pilates should be done with an instructor. It's much harder than it looks even though some of the exercises look familiar like pushups. This is because there is a fundamental concept in Pilates that is hard to understand from this book -the navel-to-spine, also called 'scooping the belly'. I don't think Brooke Siler explains it in depth enough. There is another thing which bothers me in the book. It's where she explains about 'lengthening the neck' and shows two pictures, fig 6 and 7. I can't figure out if she means fig 6 is wrong and 7 is right or if they're both right.

  Brooke Siler does explain the exercises pretty well, the visualisation sketches are handy too, but words are just not enough because there is too much to remember. I lie down, then sneak a look at the book, raise my legs and torso, then think uh-oh! Do I exhale or inhale first? Another peek at the book, okay inhale, raise my torso, keeping my spine pressed to the floor. Am I doing this right? Roll over and look at the book. Damn! I forgot to sink in my stomach, squeeze my buttocks and keep my shoulders away from my ears!

  I think one class of Pilates would show you everything and make it more clearer what you have to do because you can see the *process* and be corrected by someone who knows what they're doing. Otherwise, it takes heaps of time to master one exercise and you may think you're doing it correctly but there's always that chance you're not!

  I've been trying the modified beginner exercises, experimenting, and just trying it out. My stomach did hurt at the beginning the day after I did some exercises, but that's gone away now.

  I wish that Caitlin - the beginning exercises model didn't wear the swimsuit and wore tank tops like the other two so I could see what 'scooping the belly' does to her stomach. Also, with there were more photos showing the in between sequences within one movement. Some have just the pic of the beginning posture usually lying down, and the end result. That makes it hard for me to imagine the 'rhythm of the movements' which is supposed to be very important.

  I have written mostly negative things about this book but as I wrote before..it's worth having despite that. One last thing...once you flip through the book, I'm sure you'll wonder as I did... did Joseph Pilates ever put on a top and pants?
  
  

• A great addition to a Pilates book/equipment collection
  By A2V4MGWJ100JKP on 2000-08-21
  I've been using Pilates for the last two years to combat over 30 years of serious back pain. It works like nothing else.

  Although I've had considerable personal training by physical therapists in a Pilates studio, once the insurance cuts out it's quite pricey. Home work is essential. The Pilates Body by Brooke Siler is the best book I've seen or used as an adjunct to my Pilates 'small apparatus' (ball, wall springs, rotating disc etc) and a couple of videos.

  I do agree with another reviewer that to get the most from this book, one must have some training from a certified Pilates professional. Without a proper knowledge of the full scope of the training concept you could worsen injuries or create new ones.

  Ms Siler's approach is friendly, easy to use and understand for the studio beginner or the intermediate student who want to practice at home as part of their regular workout. It's also very comprehensive, even including some great arm/light weight routines that other books miss.

  Pilates saved me from back surgury and has changed my body dramatically. With a change in how I view my diet and eating habits (getting rid of everything 'nonfat'), I've lost 35 lbs and people don't recognize me. My husband says I look 20 years younger, and I feel it. Pilates has a lot to do with it. I also recommend interested students look at www.balancedbody.com and ask for a catalog...they don't show all the small apparatus equipment on the website. I can be contacted regarding the reputation of this company (Walybird@aol.com).

  Anyway...buy this book.
  
  

• Amazing!
  By A179XL3AENVNPS on 2000-06-21
  I bought this book and started the beginner progam. After 2 weeks & ten sessions I have had wonderful results (especially my arms and stomach) and feel stronger and more graceful. Don't be fooled into thinking it's easy, it can be a real workout. But I am getting better results than trainning with weights.
  
  
• Great Resource
  By AOK3GUE9PXK1U on 2000-08-10
  This is perhaps the closest thing one will ever get to having a personal Pilates trainer. I own another Pilates book and have exercised using that, but Siler's The Pilates Body tops that in many ways.

  First, Siler was able to provide inputs and tips that are vital to the understanding AND proper execution of each matwork. In addition, the author also carefully explains to the user the fundamentals of Pilates exercise; a very important factor in achieving the right results and avoiding injury.

  Second, she taps into one's visual imagination to help carry out the exercises effectively. Sketches of these visual images are likewise included.

  Third, before launching into the matwork proper, there is actually a portion on exercises for beginners. This is good because Pilates is not exactly the easiest kind of exercise to get into, especially after one has been accustomed to aerobic and weight-lifting exercises.

  Finally I like the fact that the book communicates its rich contents in a clear, direct, (no unnecessary ramblings, and I liked that!) and encouraging manner.
  
  

• The Pilates Body by Brooke Siler
  By A1UQN9I2QOBT0H on 2000-10-19
  If you want to buy just one book on Pilates I would recommend Brooke Siler's The Pilates Body. Ms. Siler's book is a must for anyone beginning Pilates to anyone who is advanced. The photos are wonderful in their precision and the explanations are easily understood and practical. I practice three times a week with personal trainers and when I go on vacations or a place that I cannot take a class, I bring the book along to remind me of the sequences and the correct positioning. It is very important to have the correct posture and concentration while performing these exercises. I highly recommend taking some private lessons along with working with her book.

  I have both of the reprinted Joseph Pilates books (which I recommend for pictures of Joe doing the original exercises, theory and history) in addition to Sean Gallagher's book (which I felt was helpful but sometimes convoluted). Brooke Siler's book clearly and simply brings Pilates to you at home. Where are the videos Brooke?
  
  

• Buy this book!
  By AI0PEV3IJ9IMD on 2000-06-13
  If you've ever wondred about trying the Pilates method, this is the book to buy. The book is laid out in an extremely logical fashion and is quite easy to follow. Brooke Siler uses visual cues to help you engage your imagination in your workout. I have a few videos that are based on Pilates but found the pictures and descriptions in this little book to be far more useful. The workout routine is clearly divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced levels with hints on how to move smoothly from one exercise to the next. The tone of the book is warm and encouraging without being patronizing. Check it out!
  
  
• Most Used
  By on 2000-08-16
  I bought three books at the same time. I use this book almost exclusively. I started out with the modified beginners routine and have progressed to more. Pictures are clear and the style is friendly. There are a good variety of exercises and it will be awhile before I have tried everyone. I feel better after the exercises and try to do them every morning.
  
  
• Addictive Exercise!
  By A2ZHBGPYUOFTZG on 2001-03-30
  I started using the Pilates Body about a month ago, and I'm amazed by the results. While I've been doing regular cardio exercise and yoga, I still saw "problem spots" in my abs and thighs. Pilates targets those areas explicitly, and by following this program twice a week I have noticed my clothes fitting much, much better!

  The exercises are well described, and Siler uses photos of experienced Pilates teachers to demonstrate each movement. The description and photos of each exercise are spread over two pages, and on the top right there is a drawing to remember the type movement you are striving for. It is useful to read the book through before you begin to exercise for the first time - otherwise you'll be on your back with your legs in the air fumbling for your book! After you get the exercises down, you can just flip through so that you remember the order.

  Overall, I think this book and the exercises in it would make a valuable addition to any exercise routine!
  
  

• Excellent easy to follow exercise book
  By A1ZGEJ5X2QF4NY on 2000-11-11
  I usually skip exercise book and instead get videotapes because I have such a hard time following the written directions, wondering if I'm doing it right. Not true of this book. The pictures offer great starting points, then there are step by step instructions including great visualisions("pumping your arms up and down as if you were splashing water"). I always felt like I was doing it right and never felt rushed on to the next step. Plus for a less than 10 minute workout(as it was for me when I first started out) I felt great afterwards even feeling as though I accomplished something.
  
  
• Clear and thorough, a GREAT reference book!
  By A1GJ14P397ZVKU on 2000-12-07
  This is my second Pilates book, the first one was OK in explaining the actual poses/exercised, but half the book was the authors ramblings on the spritual cosmos. Brooke Siler has exquisitly introduced the philosophy behind Pilates, and the mind/body connection. It has "The Mat Workout" in the same order I have seen in other books...the exercises are meant to go in a certain order for maximum benefit and not all books teach this. The level of each exercise (beginning, intermediate, advanced) are clearly marked, there is even a different girl for each level in the photos and there is a chart with thumbnail photos and the name of the exercise in the order they should be done. I copied this and stuck it on my wall where I exercise for easy reference. The photos are professionally done and the narrative that goes with each pose/exercise is easy to understand so you get your body alignment right. I'm looking for more to buy from her...she's GREAT!!
  
  
• A TIP
  By A6UCM0EE4VDKK on 2001-06-30
  Although I have not read or looked at any other pilates books before this one, I do agree that Siler provides very comprehensive descriptions and form pointers for each exercise. One reviewer complained that this great detail made it difficult to learn from a book (the problem of switching from performance to reviewing technique out of a book became awkward and cumbersome...) For others having this problem, or for whom this problem might make them hesitate before buying the book... one trick that helped me overcame this problem was reading the descriptions into a tape recorder which I then play as I practice each exercise. I found that it made the exercises much more fluid and I could feel the muscle groups (especially core muscles) working much more because my focus and concentration improved greatly.
  
  
• The Pilates Body--Wonderfully Informative and Encouraging
  By A2SW86BFP8XU3Y on 2000-10-05
  I first read about Pilates in fitness magazines, and I was intrigued by the concept of stretching and strengthening muscles without bulking up. After months and months of researching reviews and comments for the best Pilates how-to book, I bought The Pilates Body just recently.

  Her book stands out remarkably--I truly have yet to read a negative review about this book. Her tone throughout the book is very caring and encouraging, never pushy or condescending. Her explanations are simple, and her visualizations techniques are wonderful.

  Before I purchased the book, I did a Pilates workout that was recommended in Self magazine and was very pleased with how I felt mentally and physically, which prompted me to look for other materials regarding this method (which, in turn, led me to this book!). I have yet to get to the Full Mat Program, but even at the beginning level, I find myself sitting up taller, breathing regularly, and constantly saying to myself, "Navel to spine!"

  The method is refreshing, effective, and relaxing, and you will learn a great deal about your body and the way it moves. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Pilates.
  
  

• Get Your Body Moving from Your Powerhouse!
  By A1JV4QKTEB7QBL on 2003-02-27
  Everyone has heard the old adage, "If you don't use it, you lose it." Well, this book helps you use your body in ways that will help keep it spry and supple as your age advances with absolutely none of the jolt of high impact exercise.
  
  Firstly, I would recommend at least five sessions with a registered Pilates instructor. Although it is possible to understand the body allignment necessary to perform these exercises optimally by reading the 'Key Elements to Mastering the Mat' chapter of the book, the process is expedited by someone who can 'show' as well as 'tell'. If instruction is impossible, I would recommend Jennifer Kries instructional tape "The Method:Precision Toning"; actually seeing the exercises in sequence with Ms. Kries gentle encouragement helps to assimilate the photos in the book into the reality of the motion. Note: the tape does not cover all the positions, but provides enough for a worthy introduction.
  
  The book helps the exerciser to understand just what each movement is meant to feel like. It uses photographs that simulate each progression of movement and written copy that details the procedure step-by-step. In addition to this, tips regarding how best to engage and hence strengthen the muscles in your powerhouse (abdominals, hips, lower back and buttocks)are provided in bullet fashion. Most importantly, there are little sketches which help you to visualize the feeling the exercise is meant to arouse within the body. All exercises are presented in sequence so that they flow from one to another; each exercise is labeled 'beginner', 'intermediate' or 'advanced' and features a corresponding model which helps you to delineate based on current level. Sides series leg exercises follow the basic mat technique and extras using light weights complete the program. The author, Brooke Siler, cleverly includes a state-by-state list of registered Pilates instructors so that you can learn the basics from a pro.
  
  I have used this book for over two years; I have found that the 15 to 30 to 45 minutes I spend on performing these exercises each morning---the time differences reflect wheither I do side series or weights---has enabled me to participate in more rigorous athletic activities without so much as blinking an eye. Recently I did a mountain bike ride--22 miles--an activity I have not participated in for quite a while----and felt absolutely no pain the next morning. You will find you use the techniques used to engage the powerhouse all the time, even when just walking down the block. The Pilates breathing becomes second nature as does all movement from the core. I will warn you that Pilates is not easy. If you have not participated in some form of body toning for a while, you will definitely feel pain in your abdominals even if you perform just the very basic routine. Don't let this discourage you--I have a C-section pouch that certainly does not help to ease any of the motions---the pain quickly passes and the developing strength provides a good base for all your other activities. Each movement incorporates toning with stretching--you will actually feel your muscles stretching from the powerhouse and reaching out in ways that traditional stretching never quite realizes. After performing just the basics for a week, you will immediately understand why professional dancers have used these techniques for over 50 years and why you should, too.
  
  Siler's book is the best book on the subject, one that you will consult regularly as you make Pilates one of your exercise mainstays. Highly recommended.
  
  
• The best Pilates book I found
  By on 2002-05-01
  As a beginning Pilates student who isn't in a position to take classes or get private training, I found an approach that is working well for me. First, I made a decision to stick with "official" Pilates materials. That meant that several different books and videos were available explaining exactly the same exercises. If it something is unclear in one, it is often clarified in another source. The Pilates variations don't offer that benefit. Second, I realized that a combination of a book and a video worked well. The book gives me the details, tells me which muscles to work and what pitfalls to avoid. The video gives me a sense of pace and answers a lot of questions that just can't be answered in the book. Third, I went through all the Pilates books I could find until I found the best one: Brooke Siler's. I also ordered a video directly from the Pilates Studio in NY which shows Romana K..(sp?) teaching the routine from beginning to end.

  I've found The Pilates Body to be a terrific reference. It's been my Bible as I learn Pilates, much more than even the video. She explains the moves well, with excellent photos to illustrate each move. She tells you which exercises to skip if you have particular injuries, which common mistakes to avoid, and how to make the exercise easier and harder. I found her guidance on how to build up your routine terrific. She offers a sensible "pre-beginner" program, then divides the routine into beginning, intermediate, advanced and super advanced levels. A different model illustrates each level, so you have an immediate key to which exercises should be within your range. Some of the simple looking exercises are VERY difficult, so this is helpful.

  I go back to this book after every time I do my Pilates, to refine what I'm doing. It is the best substitute I can find for a personal Pilates trainer.
  
  

• This is the best book you can buy!!
  By A1FJDHK0K2CSGP on 2001-07-24
  I started doing Pilates 6 mos ago w/a video tape. I started out in pretty good shape, Ive been working out for 5 years. I started pilates because I heard most pro-sports teams have a Pilates and Yoga trainer on staff. Let me tell you THIS WORKS!! Weights allways left some areas unattended. Pilates works it all! Its fun to do, and you can see results after every workout. It becomes addictive. Weights became very monotonous, but pilates is never boring. I dropped 2 inches in my midsection and am becoming ripped as heck. This book in particular works like a charm. If you look at the pictures of JH Pilates in the book at age 72 and 82, you'd swear you were looking at a 30 year old below the neck. I'll have Pilates for the rest of my life. In my opinion it is the best exercise availabe.
  
  

• Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

• Your Ultimate Pilates Body® Challenge: At the Gym, on the Mat, and on the Move
• The Pilates Body Kit: An Interactive Fitness Program to Strengthen, Streamline, and Tone (includes 2 audio cds, flash cards & workbook)
• Classical Pilates Technique - The Complete Mat Workout Series English & Spanish (Modified Basic / Basic / Intermediate / Advanced / Super Advanced)
• Pilates: Body in Motion
• Pilates on the Ball: A Comprehensive Book and DVD Workout