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On the Ball Pilates Workout for Beginnersx$3.93
  (81 reviews)
Best Price: $9.98 $3.93
On the Ball: Pilates Workout for Beginners with Lizbeth Garcia has been voted the Best Pilates Video of the Year by Health Magazine for 2005.
MPN: DGH1782D - UPC: 743457178228
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Customer Reviews
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One of the best stability ball-pilates workouts I've seen!
By A14B9D2O6Y374H on 2003-10-15
Before this dvd I used target specifics from the method-not anymore! This dvd is doable even for beginners! I was impressed with the variety of exercises on it. Specifically, you get:*intro,
*abdominal connection(with different, effective oblique moves)
*back strengthening(I have a weak lwr back, and can still do these w/o pain),
*core strengthening,
*leg/spine mobility,abs/leg coordination(effective total body moves),
*thigh strengthening(u feel this!),
*back extensions then leg extensions. After that theres FOUR BONUSES! This dvd is fantastic, a great effective way to use your ball and add variety to workouts, exercises are effective, safe and fun!Lizbeth is a pleasant, motivating,non annoying instructor with an inspiring physique, fit and realistic! I higly recommend this DVD!!!
Keeps on giving
By A116BVMMAF18ZZ on 2005-01-15
After my incessant keyboard slouching started taking a toll on my back, I thought it was time to give a pilates inspired workout a try (I was a dancer in a previous life). The end result? While I haven't lost pounds from this video alone, my posture is better, I look taller, my core is much stronger, and my waist is much more defined. And that was after just two weeks. No kidding.
This dvd is an absolute joy, and just keeps on giving. It starts off very gently with abdominal tilts, but quickly moves into floor work that actually has me breaking into a sweat. It's been a few months now and I'm still trying to master some of the exercises ((the ballisk, anyone?). It works every part of your core, and the leg lifts at the end really give you a burn. The music is soothing yet invigorating, and Lizbeth makes an excellent instructor. Pay attention to her breathing instruction - it makes a world of difference (which you should know if you've tried yoga and pilates before). And the best part are the bonus exercises which are just if not more challenging as the main video.
Challenging but inspiring!
By A1Q8AP63ONJUO3 on 2005-01-14
My husband and I have been using this DVD for about two weeks. I usually hate working out to videos, but this one is truly terrific. It's very challenging, but you see improvements in your stability and strength right away. I also love that you don't have to get geared up to start working out. I've been getting up half an hour earlier each morning, and can do the workout in my pajamas before breakfast.
It stretches you out and definitely strengthens your abs. What I especially love is that you can't master it all at once. You get your money's worth with moves it will take months to really perfect.
I highly recommend this for anyone looking for a challenging but fruitful workout.
Not a Beginners Workout
By A39KA4055QOMRY on 2006-03-28
I got into the balance ball via my chiropractor and love the core training that I got from physical therapy. I wanted to expand on that and have looked for "beginner" DVD's. This claimed to be for beginners but it is not for anyone who isn't already at least partly fit. There is no work up to this work out, in other words when you hit play it is full speed ahead! The moves are challenging not for someone who isn't used to working out. I knew going in that Pilates was a challenging form of exercise; I wasn't however prepared for the speed in which this workout moves. I am keeping this DVD and will use it later after I have toned up more but I would not suggest it to anyone that hasn't worked out in a while!
Relaxing, invigorating workout for beginners
By on 2003-10-28
This is a gentle, stretching core workout. I have been using the stability ball for quite some time, but I didn't think this workout pushed my limits. I would suggest it for a beginner, and anyone looking for gentle, stretching and pilates-based moves. The instructor is good, and explains breathing techniques which assist each move. I did break a light sweat doing this, and definitely increased my heart rate, but I think this workout would be best in conjunction with cardio. Most of the focus is on the core, and I would have liked to see some arms/chest/shoulders included.
The music is soothing and matches the pace of the workout. I'd do this workout again after an aerobic session, but on the whole it is not challenging enough.
- Terrific pilates ball workout
By on 2004-01-02
i m new to pilates and the ball. i find this dvd great for me. i m going to lose the had-two-babies weight and gain back my muscle. this video is getting me on my way. garcia, the instructor, is very clear and the video really flows. the exercises start with the easiest position and then quickly follows with the more challenging position. for me the best thing is how fun it is to work with the ball (vs. the mat) and the flow of instruction.the dvd offers more options than the video--you can turn off the instructors commentary and work with just the music at your own pace(kick it up a notch). also there is a bonus workout. i m really enjoying the workout and only wish this particular instructor did an intermediate workout.
- Good for beginners
By on 2004-03-25
I am very new to both Pilates and the Stability Ball, and I think this is a great workout for beginners. It's challenging enough that you won't quickly master all the moves or get bored with a too-simple, monotonous routine; but yet it's not so difficult that you're discouraged. It's easy to feel how you're improving - in both strength and flexibility - with every session.
- I Love this Video
By A315LFR5M2R3EC on 2006-04-16
Really, nothing is better than waking up and moving right into the routine. The grouping of the various positions/moves is logical allowing for quick changes and add ons. I started as a complete beginner and found that I was quickly able to accomplish most of the videos fun stuff. Its pace is nice as well you feel like your not stressed but sufficently <>.
Results: excellent toning of the abs(lower especially) and the legs. I have lost 8in. in 3 months using this video in combo with eating correctly, etc. Buy it and enjoy it!!!
- Not a beginner's workout
By A3R74EHB34JTTP on 2006-04-06
I agree this is not a "beginner" workout as it's described or titled. It's an odd combination of some easy moves (such as sitting on the ball and reaching down, then curling back up) and very tough moves, such as doing sit-ups and straight-legged 'bicycles' whole holding the ball in your arms. The workout features Ms. Garcia only, and there are no modifications or tips for any of the tougher moves. If you've been working out or all already somewhat fit, this workout is fine. If you're new to exercise, you'll find this workout frustrating at best.
- I felt like a beginner!
By ADZMH90R8OTBX on 2006-08-02
I had been working out on a stability for about 6 months and I thought this would be a change of pace for me and figured being a "beginner" workout I wouldn't have a problem. Boy was I wrong! I felt like a true beginner as I worked through the routine and was wobbling all over. Regardless, I still "felt" the results of the workout.
It took me several repetitions to start to control myself on the ball and feel like I was actually mastering the moves. This routine now has a permenant place in my exercise rotation and I love all that I'm able to do.
Don't be scared away. Stick to it and you'll love the way it makes you feel and the results you'll get!
- Hard on Core!!
By A1V98IOW1P3ZYA on 2005-01-23
This is a good pilates inspired workout on the ball. The ball really challenges the abs. This is not a beginner's DVD. If you are weak in the abs, MODIFY the moves. If you have a bad back, find something else. This workout needs a warm-up segment and a stretch segment. You will need to do these on your own.
- Fun and surprisingly challenging
By A2L6EV0V3SOATU on 2006-01-06
I bought this one along with some other stability ball workout dvd's(quick fix,the method and maria leone's "pilates on the go on the ball" which are all good in my opinion)and since it is aimed for a beginner as the title suggests, I was surprised that it was actually challenging and I felt sore(in the good way) in all the right places a day after,and I do yoga and pilates regularly.The exercises are very doable and easy to follow so that's why it is suitable for beginners but anyone at any level could benefit from this workout.The workout is 30 minutes but there's a 10 minute bonus workout blast which unfortunately has some of the same exercises as in the main workout but also some new and more challenging exercises.The video quality is great and also the music , the audio is in dolby 5.1 which is not common for fitness dvd's.The instructor is also very nice and not annoying at all. All in all if you want a stability ball workout this one should definitely be your first.
- watch out!
By A3CONFB4K1Z40L on 2006-03-28
be careful with this video if you have any neck, back or shoulder problems.
- Not truly for "Beginners" as titled...
By A2CZEGNE32UA7F on 2005-01-07
Hi. I just received this DVD a few days ago. It was a great abs work out! This DVD is for someone looking to build core strength (particularly abs). I wouldn't recommend this as a weight loss workout necessarily. Also, the title, "On The Ball pilates workout for beginners", I think could leave out the "beginners". If you're not in decent shape I think this DVD would not be a good starting point. I would recommend something more cardio first, maybe an intense yoga DVD. If you are looking for a starting point, I would recommend starting with a yoga DVD by Wai Lana like "Beginners Workout" and then moving your way up. Also, Gaiam's "BalanceBall Beginners Workout" DVD would be a good intro to the balance ball. If you purchase Gaiam's balance ball it sometimes comes with a free DVD sampler which is a great balance ball starting point. I find it best, to first watch the DVDs 1-2 times before doing it, so you are not straining yourself to see the t.v. for each move/position. Have fun!!
- Awesome and Fun
By A3I8Z2961NTUZY on 2005-07-15
I'm a personal trainer and I think this video is so fun you don't realize you're working out, yet you'll feel a burn the next day! Other great Pilates videos are:
Yoga Plus (by denise Austin)EASY
Intermediate Pilates (by Gaiam)NOT TO HARD
Pilate for Every Body (by Denise) more challengeing
Strong and Streamlined(Stott) most challenging
Hope this helps
- Good Mixture of Core and Balance...
By A3RSSA8L8O8MN9 on 2004-10-28
At my age(mid forties),I didn't want an exercise program that pushed the extreme since recovery time takes longer. I wanted something for everyday use and also an offset when I do weights or cardio work. I did want to address my history of having a weak core which led to back injuries or quick fatique. Ms. Garcia's program is great for beginners. She doesn't rush the exercises while staying focus on keeping proper form during the routine. I can't do the entire program yet w/ out a pause but the core workout is challenging while not subjecting your neck and shoulders to any discomfort. Using the stability ball promotes comfortable stretching of the muscles. It's an effective program toning my body overall. I didn't choose her program for weight loss but it will likely contribute to burning calories better.
- A great workout - for those with a little experience
By A21D9HBAE0IJCD on 2007-03-30
I have some Pilates experience and some experience with the stability ball, and this was the first workout I've tried which combined the two. As other reviewers have noted, this isn't a true beginner's workout. I think it should be categorised as Beginner/Intermediate. However, Lizbeth does give pointers on form and remind you when to exhale and inhale; I also appreciate that she tells you every time a particular movement is challenging. This workout is just the right length and always leaves me feeling good.
It isn't mentioned in the product description, but the DVD includes a slightly more challenging "Bonus Blast" workout, about ten minutes long.
- Great even in a Dorm
By ABXGCR49TYP5Y on 2005-11-26
I got this DVD to help me reinforce the fitness I'm learning in my Modern Dance class and it is working wonderfully. I just prop my laptop on top of a chair and I hop on my ball and away I go! I like how she layers on the difficulty, so if you are being challenged and she kicks it up another level, you can keep on doing what you're already doing. After I workout with the DVD, I feel stronger and I can feel muscles working that don't always get a workout in a traditional fitness regime.
- A mixed difficulty ball workout
By A3FEX2RN3Q5XT4 on 2005-07-09
Well, this one really isn't for beginners. This is because the stability ball can bring two things to the table. You can use the ball to support you during exercises and make them easier, or you can hold the ball in your hands or in between your legs while doing exercises, which makes them MUCH harder. This DVD contains both kinds of exercises, which is why I really can't recommend it for people who have never done Pilates before.
It begins with some mini roll ups on the ball to warm up the abdominals. This part is pretty easy and boring and lasts for about five minutes. Then she does spine stretch, spine twist, and saw on the ball. Then we move to the floor and do traditional Pilates exercises, using the ball in different ways. The hundred is done with the legs resting on the ball, which makes it very easy. The exercises where you have to put the ball in between your legs and hold it there are killer though. Single leg stretch, double leg stretch, and criss cross are done first with your head propped up on the ball and then with you holding the ball in your hands (harder). Roll ups are done while holding the ball (harder). Teaser and bridge are done with legs on the ball, which I like a lot.
So this workout really is a mixed bag--easier in some places than a mat pilates workout, but much harder in others. I enjoy doing it because of the places that challenge me. There is also a bonus with four exercises that are REALLY tough--like roll over with the ball in your legs.
- Awesome!
By AN7MUCMOR969Y on 2006-11-10
Can't say enough good things about this one. I am not one for watching any program while doing these but I do integrate the exercises into my daily practice.
Been working with the routines for over 1 year and - along with Sara Ivanhoe's Yoga on the Ball - have seen tremendous results.
As with anything involving the ball and these types of moves, a good quality sticky mat is important in my opinion.
- Not for beginners
By A37LZXG005G269 on 2007-02-23
I have done Pilates for some time and also worked with the balance ball so I thought it would be interesting to put the two together, and as I hadn't done that before I thought a beginner program would help. This is definitely not for beginner's. The exercises will be difficult for someone with little to moderate abdominal strength. The program goes fast with no allowance for different levels. A good workout for experienced Pilates.
- Not on the ball
By A329U5HG0JQBM on 2007-06-01
I hate being on the floor so I bought this ball & program expecting to get my exercize off the ground. For some of her program, she has you on the floor and not "on the ball". For some of her exercises, you don't even need the ball.
Not what I was expecting.
- Good for all fitness levels
By A3ES0QGGY3YZSJ on 2005-06-30
I am overweight and fairly out of shape, and one of the most frustrating things I found about pilates workouts was that they often used moves that my muscles just couldn't sustain or that the size of my chest or stomach would get in the way. This is a great zero-impact strengthening and toning workout that anybody can do, and sitting and laying on the ball is actually very relaxing. Make sure you get a ball of the proper size for your height!
- Work out is "on the ball " for older exercisers
By A21JQFKQBTGOZA on 2005-08-02
I have been a fan of Pilates for several years and so the thought of combining Pilates and the stability ball was facinating! Not only is this a great workout and easy so follow but it is like having a really good massage - it leaves me feeling relaxed. I am ready for the next step! I am not young anymore, in my sixth decade of life and still found this to be great for me as it encourages flexibility as well as building core strength.
- awesome!
By A14YNWBESCV1XV on 2006-01-22
This is a great workout video with the ball. it is challenging and fun. liz garcia is a great instructor and shows and talks about how to do things correctly as well as showing the modifications you can do and shows the full range of the most flexible. This workout is challenging. if you have extremely weak abs this is not the video you should start with unless you would like a challange. This video will get you into shape quickly. i have been doing this video and others for about 2 weeks now and i can already tell a difference. if you like this i also reccomend yoga on the ball with sarah ivanhoe.
When i haven't worked out in a while i use this video and boy does it make me feel that i have been working my abs. This is a fantastic video that should not be missed.
- The more I use it, the better I like it
By A14638TGYH7GD9 on 2007-03-06
This workout covers back, abs, legs, glutes, and stretching. If you have some free weights, it is easy to add some upper body work during the beginning section, for a full-body workout in just about half an hour.
The instructions are clear, and once you have become accustomed to the moves, you can turn off the speaking and just enjoy the workout with the music.
Instructor Lizbeth Garcia gives suggestions for adapting to different levels of difficulty, and there is also a special "challenge" workout, so you can continue to use this DVD as you get stronger.
The combination of stretches and strength work is very relaxing, and the way the exercises flow makes this a pleasurable and peaceful way to begin or end the day.
- Fantastic video!
By AE88YOLLFI9Z2 on 2005-06-28
This DVD is a great exercise routine for beginners: the exercises are done slowly enough for you to follow along, but it's not so sluggish that you get bored when you learn the routine. Lizabeth Garcia is one of the least obnoxious instructors I've ever experienced, and even if you don't like her, there is a great feature on this DVD: once you learn the moves, you can turn off her commentary and work out just to the music on the DVD. That option alone is worth the five stars in my book.
Another great feature is the addition of "bonus workout blasts" which are (very) challenging moves that you can choose to add to your workout if you feel like you need a little extra. These are great when you've already been doing the workout for a while and feel you need to up your challenges. The standard workout by itself should be more than enough for any beginner; the moves alone are not super difficult, but combined into a half-hour session, they certainly make you work hard. This DVD is great for both those who seek great muscle tone and those who want to lose weight, though be sure to combine this routine with some cardio work, as these DVD does not get your heart going very fast and it alone will not drop weight as fast as Pilates + Cardio. Personally, I've found that cardio 3 days a week and pilates 2 days a week does wonders, but to each his own.
- generally excellent but probably not for rank beginners
By A1GY8EL4NUWIT5 on 2006-02-20
This is a very good workout DVD. I have the Colleen Craig Book and DVD (Pilates on the Ball) which I think is one of the best programs, and I have been following (not always religiously)her routine for about a year. Lizbeth Garcia's DVD is of the same caliber (I don't know if there is a book as well) but I find that the workout is more advanced than Colleen Craig's DVD. Having said this, it is also shorter and perhaps more reasonable for everyday use once you have mastered the exercises. Lizbeth Garcia is a great demonstrator and makes the exercises look deceivingly simple. I am in pretty good shape but when she put her legs on the ball (with her upper body on the floor) and then did a sit up, she went another notch or two above my ability level, and even further above a beginner level. She tells you when to breathe which is always helpful, and there is an additional routine included. I see this as being at an advanced beginner to intermediate level DVD. It is a perfect one to follow Craig's Pilates on the Ball.
- Great for beginners
By A7K3ZVDY5U9D0 on 2006-03-04
I've heard so much about Pilates so I thought it was time to give it a try. This DVD is so useful for anyone that is new to Pilates or new to working out with a ball. I would highly recommend this product.
- Not really for Beginners
By A1L48MNDBXIJRG on 2006-03-27
I agree with those who state that this workout is really not for beginners. I consider myself a true beginner. I have five children, so my abdominal and lower back muscles are practically non-existant, and I haven't worked out in years. I heard so much about Pilates that I wanted to try it. As a beginner, I found that I simply could not do some of the exercises. It was clear to me that these exercises required you to have good abdominal and lower back muscles, which are usually found on someone who is already in fairly good shape, not a beginner like me.
That's not to say that this workout is not good. If you can do all the exercises, I think you will get a good workout. If you are a true beginner like me, start elsewhere and work your way up to this one.
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