Classical Pilates Technique: The Complete Universal Reformer Series + Archival English & Spanish (2 DVD Set: Introductory Basic; Basic; Intermediate; Advanced; Super Advanced; Archival) Reviews

• Pilates Equipment Is Great

  
  By A2O1RDDIXJH2X on 2004-05-08
  This DVD shows exercise routines on the Pilates Reformer exercise machine. Although Pilates mat exercise routines are a great way to stay in shape, Joseph Pilates invented equipment that gives you his total philosophy of health. By using Pilates equipment WITH the mat floor exercises, your flexibility and strength increase in many ways.

  Since I'm an instructor, I have searched the market for available videos on Joseph Pilates method. This equipment video is head and shoulders above the others. Honestly, I wish everyone would work out on Pilates equipment, in addition to the mat. I know, I know, Pilates can be expensive. But I feel that it's better to invest in your health and well-being than to pay for doctors and medication if you let your health deteriorate.

  I recommend for everyone to "Get Pilates!"
  
  

• If You're New or Experienced.....

  
  By A3O7JAB3AC92NQ on 2005-10-12
  I started taking lessons at a good Pilates studio not too long ago. The teachers suggested this 2-DVD set because it showed how to exercise on the "Universal Reformer" that Joseph Pilates made. It blew me away! Wow! If you are into Pilates you will not believe how extensive and (okay I'll say it: wild!) the exercises really are. If you're beginning Pilates there is a modified basic routine that's very instructive. Then these people show a full basic routine. Then intermediate. Then advanced. Then beyond advanced and many historical exercises. This video helped me see and feel how to practice Pilates. My lessons are better and my teachers are happier I'm making faster progress. If you have not tried Pilates, get this video and find a teacher right away!
  
  

• Technique Perfection

  
  By A2EKIYR0WFU3AW on 2006-02-18
  Love these DVDs for keeping the "pure Pilates" method ongoing. Have been doing Pilates for 5 years with an excellent trainer (trained under Romana and her proteges) and do prefer the apparatus workouts. Had the amazing opportunity to take a private lesson from Peter Fiasca, (featured on these DVDs)the Classical Pilates Director, and also watched him go through the workout on the apparatus in person. The fluid moves learned with this method are amazing. I am 60 years old and can keep up with the 20 and 30 year olds on the apparatus. It has done amazing things for by body and health and I will continue to watch these DVDs and learn more. These are a true testament to appreciating the method and its results. You do have to have a good knowledge of the Pilates method (including the Matwork) before attempting to do some of the workouts. It is worth finding a 5 star trainer who has studied the Classical Pilates Technique. Great, great, great presentation.
  
  

• The Gold Standard

  
  By AV1HSJB1LWKFD on 2004-08-08
  The more you understand Pilates, the more you understand it is a very, very challenging exercise method. As far as I'm concerned, this video shows Reformer equipment exercises better than any other video. This Universal Reformer Series demonstrates the most comprehensive and professional and attractive way of practicing Pilates.
  
  I started out studying the Stott version of Pilates. When I saw this video, I discovered Pilates can be strong and beautiful. It's energizing too. Now I'm studying with a Pilates teacher who studied classical Pilates, and it is an excellent workout.
  
  

• This Is Authentic Pilates

  
  By A2BC2CVFCBOHYZ on 2004-06-04
  If you are looking for authentic Pilates with seriously beautiful and skillful practitioners, as well as solid instruction, this DVD is for you.

  I'm happy to have 'graduated' from using the small home "Performer" that I bought on QVC, to getting a full studio Reformer. I was so inspired by this DVD that I decided to take private lessons from a certified Pilates instructor. Using this piece of Pilates equipment literally changed my body and improved my strength.

  Now I alternate between doing a Pilates mat workout 2-3 times each week, and practicing on the Reformer. This is a fabulous combination.

  This is a 3 hour 2-DVD set. Although I will never, ever, get to advanced and super advanced routines, these are splendid to watch. Pilates, I see now, can go on forever!
  
  

• For All Students & Teachers
  By A1U8VRJXI3NWCJ on 2004-07-09
  I've studied the Pilates method for a few years, and became certified through the Stott training program. After going to a couple of Pilates conventions, where people from different schools attend, someone suggested that I buy this Classical Pilates video. I had heard of the classical style or classical approach, but I didn't know much about it. Stott Pilates is good, but we learn different exercises and different movement speeds compared to this video.

  This Reformer video opened my eyes, and my mind, about the classical approach to Pilates. The exercises are precise and they flow energetically from one to another without interruption. The practitioners execute their routines with wonderful movement qualities. After seeing this video, I wanted to learn more. So I decided to study with someone who trained in this tradition. The experience has been great!

  I'm thankful that I found this video. It has enlightened me about the Pilates method, and I use the master teacher's verbal cues to improve my workouts.
  
  

• Useless without the reformer
  By on 2004-04-30
  For those of us who have never done pilates before and have no idea what a reformer is, this DVD is useless. Make sure you have the reformer (approx. $355-500) before you purchase this.
  
  
• Wonderful Range of Workouts
  By A11NF94U1GUJ46 on 2005-09-23
  There are only a few Reformer videos available. I've seen the Stott video and I prefer this video because it shows basic, intermediate, advanced, super advanced and archival levels. I appreciate this video is 3 hours long. In this video you have your own encyclopedia of traditional workouts the way Joseph Pilates made them. This is strict East Coast Pilates. And this is the only real method. There are people think it's too fast. I say, NO WAY! I enjoy the energy really moving, instead of just contemplating your way through a workout. You can't go wrong with this top notch video.
  
  
  
• A Collection Unsurpassed
  By AQOSFWG61AL99 on 2004-01-19
  Although the Classical Pilates Technique DVDs were not shot in an exotic location or on a luxurious set, these are the finest Pilates DVDs on the market. They exhibit the high standards of instruction required of all who were trained in the tradition of Romana Kryzanowska.

  I have read in other reviews that the instruction does not focus enough on the Breath and must offer my opinion. Joseph Pilates himself said: "Above all, learn to breathe properly." By that, Mr. Pilates meant to take full inhalations and complete exhalations. He believed in a deep lateral breath. My beginning students are always concerned with when to inhale and exhale and I tell them to be more concerned with how, not when, to breathe. The body will find its own natural pattern to assist in the movement.

  In Ms. Ungaro's directions, I have found a new path to familiar routines and with my own students, I now use many of the powerful images that Mr. Liekens delivers throughout his voiceovers. Two of the DVDs in the collection include discussions, from which much additional information about the Pilates method can be learned. All in all, this collection of Pilates instruction remains unsurpassed.
  
  

• Beyond Beyond
  By A2Q87NP171OMBH on 2003-12-05
  Classic Pilates sets the standard by which I see all other Pilates DVDs. As a certified instructor, I know that Joseph Pilates created a very clear and organized exercise system. He also wrote books that established a philosophy of health to give his exercise system even more substance.

  I am a fan of Classical Pilates because their work shows ultimate respect for remaining true to Joseph Pilates' workouts and philosophy. I purchased this comprehensive 3 hour 2-DVD Reformer video from Classical Pilates (before it was available on Amazon) and it definitely goes beyond all expectations by expertly demonstrating workouts with beautiful strength and articulation. Classical Pilates brings it all together with some of the best Pilates professionals in the business today.

  There are two distinct basic Reformer workouts on this video, which is very instructive, because they show how you can start the method differently from the very beginning. These two basic Reformer workouts also show how different types of skills can be accomplished with the same exercises. Then on to intermediate level, advanced level, and even super advanced level. There is also a phenomenal exposition of archival exercises that I have never seen.

  The camera work is wonderful in this Reformer video. You really feel the movement of the demonstrators as you watch it. And it feels great!
  
  

• Good product
  By A3ML4091EZKSY8 on 2005-09-24
  If you have taken Pilates class with an instructor, this tape is excellent for any and all points that you may have forgotten to perform the exercises.
  If you are a beginner, I would suggest a viewing or two, just looking at the taped to understand the exercises. The classical techniques are far more beneficial than some of the new, fangled techniques you see for Stott or the Windsor. Well worth the time.
  
  One watchout, the DVD did not play that well on my computer. It did fine in a player with the TV. Could be the computer but just a watchout as well.
  
  
• "Upgraded, improved and phenomenal".
  By on 2003-12-07
  This New "upgraded and improved" DVD is a phenomenal undertaking that professionally illustrates the dynamic mind/body achievements of the original Pilates Reformed Method.
  I use this DVD to enhance and reinforce the lessons I take with classically trained certified Pilates teachers. I highly recommend this to all teacher, apprentices, students and beginners who are learning the reformer workouts.
  This DVD adds to my steady progression in learning the method by presenting the fabulous disciplined soloists with enhanced visual clarity showing core abdominal strength, spinal articulation, flexibility, enthusiastic energy, athletic gracefulness and mastery of movement. The variety of body types and styles gives a depth of knowledge in clearly seeing the breath and engaged muscles as the soloists move through the workouts. The outstanding verbal instruction keeps the mind focused and continually learning and re-adjusting the movements.
  This DVD presents intact the un-compromised original technical integrity of the method as developed by Joseph Pilates. A perfect example of the importance of not distorting or changing this method is seen in how specific and scientifically Joseph Pilates designed the archival exercises for specific physical problems and rehabilitation.
  Pilates is an evolutionary progression of fitness and this DVD has achieved outstanding quality in showing what can be achieved in the body and mind when this is done with correct technical percision and accuracy. I am thankful to say that after the steady discipline of carefully working this method with my certified teachers I am moving from rehabilitating a physical injury into an improved intermediate/advanced reformer level with a new awareness of my bodies requirements for a safe workout.
  
  
• Spectacular
  By on 2004-01-05
  As an instructor, I highly recommend this Classical Pilates DVD for beginning through advanced clients. Understanding the flow and order of the exercises in each Reformer workout, as well as the nuances involved in performing the exercises correctly, can take years to comprehend. Classical Pilates' DVDs illustrate these points clearly and succinctly. The section of archival exercises is more of an exhibition than a workout, but it is the crowning glory of the method and this DVD. Congratulations to Classical Pilates for a spectacular presentation of the original Pilates method of body conditioning.
  
  
• Superlative
  By A1ZDEF4P1J8SND on 2004-01-03
  I would be very surprised if there is ever a fourth edition, because this Third Edition of the Reformer from Classical Pilates is superlative! Both the modified basic routine and archival section are inspired supplements to the previous work this company has presented. If you have just started your Pilates training -- or not -- even if you are an instructor, this DVD of Reformer workouts is an invaluable resource.
  
  
• Intense Excellence
  By A3LZB6S510M32W on 2003-12-06
  About a year ago I bought Classical Pilates' previous Reformer DVD. It had a full range of traditional technique, but the lights and looked like a student film project. Even so, the movement was excellent. When this 3rd edition arrived, I called the company and asked what they had improved. It turns out just about everything: lights, sets, technique, and comprehensiveness. These cats are head and shoulders above any other Pilates DVD making company. They make the Reformer workouts look like a new sport/art form that could be in the Olympics.
  
  
• Pilates Equipment Rules
  By A3OPHBQA984QBW on 2006-01-19
  You have to have Pilates equipment to feel the power! Mat exercises never did it for me. I'm used to lifting free weights and playing football. When I saw this video and tried the workouts with a local teacher I could understand why people like Pilates. You have to be strong and smart to do these workouts. If you get this DVD and a good teacher, you'll be healthy wealthy and wise in no time.
  
  
• No Other Like It
  By on 2004-05-07
  This Reformer video is the most complete set of Pilates workouts that you can buy, especially in a single package. Besides that, the professionals who put this video together are thoroughly expert in the description and depiction of Pilates workouts. If you are interested in the Pilates Reformer, the most well-known piece of equipment, this is the only video to buy. I tell every other teacher I know about this video, and I recommend that my students study this video. After my students watch this video, their understanding of the Pilates method improves, and their physical capabilities improve as well.
  
  
• Way too fast
  By A11MLJELNMBDSY on 2005-08-06
  I like the format but it is just way to fast to feel as though you have having any impact or getting anything out of this video. I have to pause just to concentrate. Maybe it will just take time to get used to. I like the GIAM videos much better.
  
  
• Great work out, horrible DVD layout
  By A2W379E4CTH00E on 2007-06-17
  Ok...It's obvious these guys deliver a great work out...THEY ALL DO! However, most people buy these for home work outs, and not all of us are professional a the beginning, you will find yourself, remote in hand, as your working out, pausing, making sure you got the work out right, or just plain skipping a routine that your body doens't want you to do...that's where this dvd is flawed, take for instance the Stott Advanced pilates workout, which is a great two disc set, more expensive, with less information than this one, however, there's enough there to give you a GREAT work out, with the menu skip, where each skip doesn't take you to the next routine but to the next exercise...huge help...I'm a Film Direcotor and these guys really dropped the ball on dvd menu's which is really unfortunated considering the price and information within this DVD being so incredible. Three Thumbs for effort...booo on the DVD structure...my advice get another unless you're very seasoned..the dvd menu will kill you.
  
  
• A must have item for all interested in Pilates
  By A38QEKTJFYM3YG on 2007-01-27
  This is an outstanding DVD for everyone that loves and practices Pilates. It gives you and idea as to what practicing Pilates should look like. This DVD shows your goal you are working to achieve when practicing Pilates is concerned. Also this Pilates DVD shows you the way the flow and real rhythm of Pilates should be, the way Joseph Pilates designed it to be. If you are looking for a DVD that shows you real, true to original and pure Pilates you must get this DVD!
  
  
• Great!
  By A2LGXB4DTN22N5 on 2007-07-20
  Wonderful DVD! As a Pilates instructor, I have learned many new techniques and moves with this DVD. A bit too fast paced for someone who has never done Pilates. But, for the experienced Pilates student (I would say 1 year or more) give it a go!
  
  
• Great learning tool for contemporary instructors
  By A1DAG820HF3EPE on 2007-12-14
  As an instructor trained in a more contemporary method of pilates I wanted to learn some classical technique. The cues are wonderful but it moves VERY fast. Be prepared to hit pause a lot. If you are unfamiliar with pilates this is not a good starting point as it moves too quickly.
  
  
• Pilates Reformer DVD
  By A1XMSXZ79G7XW9 on 2007-09-06
  I wanted to shock my body with some new type of exercise (I run and bike regularly.) so I received a reformer as a gift from my husband. The instructional video for the Pilates exercises was extremely easy so I thought this one would provide the progressive levels that I wanted.
  
  Although I have had to modify several exercises for my machine, I am happy to report that I find the workout challenging yet enjoyable. The instructions are simple to follow although it does take time to flow from one exercise to another without pausing the remote. I don't see being able to complete all the exercises in the advanced workout for some time which is wonderful since so few exercise DVD's are challenging.
  
  I'm looking forward to seeing the changes in my body and, one day, making it to the Super Advanced session!
  
  
  
• reference
  By A3PGKH0CQQNF2K on 2007-01-04
  The 'bible' of Pilates videos - for professionals only, however. A 'must have' reference work which should be consulted on a regular basis by professionals.
  
  
• Awesome workout!
  By AV8QJ4AXCET9O on 2008-09-04
  I found this workout to be very beneficial for me. It is not as strenuous on the body like other forms of exercise, but you can sure see and feel that it is working! Just what I was looking for!
  
  

• Classical Pilates Technique - The Complete Mat Workout Series English & Spanish (Modified Basic / Basic / Intermediate / Advanced / Super Advanced)
• Classical Pilates Technique: The Studio Equipment Series (2-DVD Set)
• Classical Pilates Technique: The Complete Magic Circle Mat Series (Basic; Intermediate; Advanced) & Reformer Mat Workout (Super Advanced)
• Pilates
• Classical Pilates Technique with consideration of the NECK & BACK