10 Minute Solution: Rapid Results Pilates Reviews

• Nice Variety - Good Boredom Buster

  
  By AR5RYQBKKC1UT on 2006-08-15
  I knew I'd like this - I have Lara's 2 other videos and I like her style. She cues well and has a nice, calm demeanor. Rapid Results is different from her other pilates video. In this there are pilates classics with a twist. In the arms section you'll do saw with weights in both hands. I really felt that all over. The bun/thighs section has floor exercises: frog, bridge and side lying leg lifts with lots of leg variations. The abs section was very effective. Again, leg variations make you really feel it in your lower abs. The total body section was tough and I also felt like the stretch was a workout! If you like variety over endless reps you'll love this workout. It's not the same old pilates moves. Lara doesn't show many modifications; but I don't think this was meant for beginners. It's a fluid workout and I was challenged by each 10 minute section.
  
  

• Awesome workout w/ no excuses....everyone has just ten minutes to spare!

  
  By A3OZPA2Y2SUYX5 on 2006-09-15
  This workout DVD is fabulous- I love how its broken down into 10 minute segments so that you can customize it depending on your time constraints a/o fitness needs, or can do the whole thing for one terrific workout!
  
  What makes this DVD better than some of the other pilates DVD's on the market is: (1) very good breathing and technique cues (SO important); (2) instruction while doing the moves as opposed to wasting time explaining what you're going to be doing (so that you're actually moving for all 10 minutes of each segment); (3) really rigorous segments- you'll work up a sweat in just ten minutes no matter which one(s) you do; (4) short reps which really focus in on technique and doing the moves the right way to reach results; (5) some new and interesting moves- not merely the same old ones you see on every other DVD out there; (6) NO excuses allowed- everyone can find just 10 extra minutes at the very least to squeeze in a great workout; and (7) something for everyone- whether you're looking to tone your core, arms, hips, butt or legs, you'll find a great workout.
  
  
  If you're new to pilates, you may want to watch it first before attempting to follow it to make it easier, as the moves a/o techniques may be new to you.
  
  My only gripe is that she recommends doing exercises- particualrly in the "core" segment- with a rounded back and not in neutral pelvis position (which I've been taught is the correct pilates position). Apart from that one complaint, its an awesome workout and you'll feel it the next day whether you do one segment or all of them!
  
  
  

• NOT PILATES

  
  By A2CSUNQG4KIKYC on 2007-04-03
  I hate to be the lone dissenter as everyone else seems to love this DVD, but I was very disappointed with it. From the title, I was expecting PILATES workouts. To call it a Pilates DVD borders on false advertising. Maybe 20% of the content is bastardized Pilates, while the rest is a mish-mash of yoga, calisthenics, and weightlifting moves. I would never have bought this DVD if the packaging had accurately reflected the contents.
  
  I gave it 2 stars only because it is an okay workout. I prefer 10 Minute Solution Yoga. But if you want actual Pilates, try Pilates - Beginning Mat Workout. That one is a 20-minute Pilates workout, with a separate 10-minute "Power Boost" Pilates workout for those days when 10 minutes is all you can squeeze in--and it is REAL Pilates. (Yes, I AM a Pilates purist/"snob"!)
  
  

• Helpful advice if you buy this dvd

  
  By A1D0OIRQ871WCM on 2006-10-30
  I bought this DVD after taking a pilates class with the pilates machines, so I was familiar with some of the mat moves throughout the five 10-minute sections. My pilates teacher told me that if I purchase ANY pilates DVD to supplement the pilates/machines class, the best way to do it is this:
  1 - Review the move according to the teacher and practice it once.
  2 - Pause the DVD.
  3 - Do the move AT YOUR OWN PACE and AT YOUR OWN LEVEL.
  4 - Do not try to keep up with the teacher.
  
  After 4-6 sessions on the DVD, you should be able to do the moves SLOWLY, but WITH STRENGTH and BETTER CONCENTRATION - AT YOUR OWN PACE, even if it takes you longer than the prescribed 10 minutes.
  
  If you try to keep up with Lara - you could end up inflaming your lower back, or straining your neck.
  
  You have to ask yourself - what's my goal?
  To get stronger?
  Or to get it over with in 10 minutes?
  
  
  
  

• I love this series :->

  
  By A24ZFFRQ4MG3XL on 2006-08-05
  These workouts are so good in the respect that they don't allow you any excuses. EVERYONE can find 10 minutes - and more often than not, after the first 10 minutes you find the energy to turn that into 20 or 30 minutes.
  This workout is a little more fast paced than other Pilates dvds I've done, but it still uses the classic moves. As usual, each 10 minute routine focuses on a specific body part (first is buns/thighs, second is arms/shoulders, third abs, fourth a total toning and lastly a stretch). The instructor Lara Hudson, is a good cuer and so you know what's coming up next and are always prepared. They do use weights so you should have some nearby.
  I love this dvd. I've only done it once through once, because I just got it, but I intend to use it about twice a week along with the other workouts of theirs. It's easy to get through because of the time and it's fun and different. I recommend it for sure.
  
  
• Ignore the positive reviews...
  By A35PJU0NW35EWK on 2007-06-02
  I'd give this zero stars if I could. These people giving positive reviews must be professional Pilates instructors or acrobats. Contrary to what someone on here said, this is NOT for beginners or even those that have done Pilates for awhile. I did this once and now I'm going to get rid of it. The instructor is nice and cues very well; you can learn this from the start if you can do all the difficult moves. But I couldn't. I hurt my back, neck, arms, and hands, sweat just a little bit, and felt like I accomplished absolutely nothing except to injure myself. I don't recommend this for anyone unless they're an expert at twisting themselves into impossible positions for long periods of time. Take my advice and stay away from this.
  
  
  
• Very effective~!
  By A33TRLXYRS59Z8 on 2006-09-17
  I had tried one other pilates dvd and didn't like it but since I enjoyed other 10 Minute Solution dvds I thought I would give this one a try and I am so glad I did! The time flew by for each segment and I really enjoyed Lara as an instructor. You also add hand weights to some segments which is nice. In fact the only equipment needed was a carpeted floor or pilates mat, and light hand weights. Plus you are able to do this workout bare foot, a nice change of pace. My only complaint is that I could not do all the moves in the cardio segment, too advanced for me but hopefully in time I will increase my flexibiity. I highly recommend this dvd for an intro to pilates or for those already at intermediate levels. I found it relaxing but could feel the burn afterwards.
  
  
• Great Pilates DVD
  By A1U6WGVJWJOKXJ on 2006-12-22
  I've had a few different pilates DVDs and this one is the best. It really helps that the instructor tells you when to breath in and out and you can hear her breathing. You can synchronize the 5 different workouts in the order you want. Some of these exercises are different from the ones on other pilates DVDs. For example, I've never seen the teaser on any other workout. It's my favorite. I have used Winsor Pilates and I used to think it was great, but it really hurt my neck compared to this one. This 10 Minute Solution Pilates doesn't hurt and it really works DEEP into your muscles. I think I can replace weight lifting with this DVD.
  
  
• Unnecessarily complex, mildly effective
  By A1ZUK82SVPB3MX on 2007-08-20
  First off, let me say that I do cardio, weights and Pilates exercises on a regular basis and would consider myself an intermediate level exerciser with good overall flexibility and a strong core. With that said, I have mixed feelings about this DVD. For one, I agree that it's not totally Pilates, but more of a mish-mash of Pilates, yoga, isometrics (during the arm segments) and a lot of gymnastic-based movements. That in itself is perfectly okay, since I value effectiveness over purism. However, I didn't feel like these exercises really worked or challenged my legs and abdominal muscles enough, although I thought the arms segment was rather effective using only light dumbbells. What I especially noticed with this workout is that many of the exercises are unnecessarily complex - when much simpler movements can offer greater results without all the hassle and risk of injury to the neck (especially) and even the back. Even the glamorously named "Mermaid stretch" places unnecessary strain on the neck when one should be feeling most relaxed and free of tension at this point. It should come as no surprise that the instructor, Lara Hudson (whom I actually like) was herself a child gymnast. Her transitions are fluid and graceful and her cuing is up to par. And while it is beautiful and impressive to watch and even imitate, much of it is `smoke and mirrors' - in that it is more acrobats than it is serious exercise. So do this if you're trying to improve your overall balance and acrobatic skills over trying to reshape your legs and abs.
  
  I would actually recommend her previous "10 Minute Solution: Pilates" DVD over this one, which I feel is simpler but more effective and truer to the Pilates Method. Her "10 Minute Solution: Yoga" DVD is also nicely done. For another fantastic and well-produced Pilates DVD that is divided into 10 minute segments, try Denise Austin's "Hit the Spot: Pilates", which potentially offers more `rapid results' than this.
  
  I will say however, that I did all five segments in a row and time flew by. I love the music and the simple set as well.
  
  Rating: Fair
  
  
  
• NOT for beginners
  By A21AURKKVWU5N1 on 2007-04-24
  I'm sorry gals. I tried to like this one. I do like the instructor. But these positions are impossible for a beginner. I have tried more than once, but if I am not at the top of my game physically and mentally, I cannot complete a single set. And with two small children, I often come to the mat preoccupied and tired. If you are a beginner, I urge you to try to rent or borrow first.
  
  
• Time efficient exercise!
  By A2VUZWLU3F7UJJ on 2006-10-28
  I really like this DVD - you can get some really good exercise in only 10 minutes. Lara does not waste time on lengthy explanations between exercises, and she moves quickly from one exercise to another. I like the variety of exercises - there are not too many rep's on any one exercise, which keeps the workout from being monotonous.
  
  This is the first "programmable" exercise DVD I've used, and I like being able to pick and choose which exercise segments to do and in which order - this makes it easier for me to get motivated to start (and once I start, I'm fine).
  
  
• Fine for beginner
  By AS0DTZF83RQLA on 2007-01-09
  I enjoy the format of 5 different workouts. I mix it up and do 2-3 every day. I am new to Pilates, having taken one mat class, and think that the instructor on the DVD is excellent. She explains breathing and position very well.
  
  
• 10 minutes solution review
  By A17JU7OY4B2HWA on 2007-05-19
  I decided to purchase this DVD based on the reviews of a bunch of different pilates videos. This one seemed to have the most positive feedback, and was simple enough, yet offered enough workouts to get a good quality session. For a first time user of pilates, this was all new to me. Lara does give good instructions, and after a few times doing the workouts, it seemed much easier to follow.
  
  The butt and thigh workout is probably the easiest and the best, and gives you a guarenteed burn, especially at the end. My inner thighs look awesome--I can see the definition just in raising my leg! However, I am lacking the rounder-rear that I thought I would get, but I can say it isn't floppy anymore! The complete body workout is DEFINITLY a good workout--I worked up a good sweat, but it's kind of hard to follow for a beginner (there are moves and motions that make it hard to look at the TV). The abs workout is alight, but not great. I'm not seeing the desired results in my problem "pouch" area, and the part about turning the tailbone under is confusing. The stretch workout is very relaxing too.
  
  I would recommened watching the DVD first, or follow along with the remote near you to pause and rewind the first go-round and without the expectation of getting a good workout. The instructions are pretty simple, great for a first timer. I like how she tells you how and where to breath, and after 2 or 3 times, the movements become second nature. FIRST TIMERS--I would definitly advise to have a cushioned mat of some sort when doing this! I made the mistake of not having one, and there were certain parts that were a little painful to do on just a hard floor--I had to use a pillow to cushion my rear and tailbone. Overall, it serves it purpose as a beginners video, and the option to customize your workout is another perk. I would recommend this to someone just starting out with pilates or someone looking for an easy way to get thinner thighs, as that is the part where I have seen the best results.
  
  
• Amazing
  By AZE9OOIGDR0LN on 2007-02-20
  I know this sounds impossible, but I have been using this dvd every day for the past two weeks, and I am already seeing results. Not only am I stronger, but I am seeing some of the definition on my stomach come back! I am in shock... it's been awhile since I've seen them. Some of the exercises were hard at first... but every day, and I'm only doing ten to twenty minutes per day, I am getting stronger and better at the exercises...
  
  As a person who has not been to the gym for the last three years, this dvd is giving me exactly what it promises, rapid results in the small amount of time I can dedicate to fitness each day.
  
  
• I loved it!
  By A2OCAHFWBWB6T6 on 2007-05-06
  I don't know anything about pilates...i.e. never did it before or even read about it, and this is also my first exercise DVD. I usually just make up my own thing. Anyway, I was looking for a workout that gave me a leaner look and this one has done it! It's also given me some really defined muscles and I'm much more flexible which is a nice plus. My favourite move of all is the 'triceps dip to a tabletop' and I sometimes use this as a relaxer! The exercises weren't too hard for me but that doesn't mean that they're easy! I came out of my first 10 minutes really sweating! I don't have a fitness background but I am not overweight I just needed to tone up. If you are a pilates pro you may find this easy and if you are overweight or very unfit it may be a bit tougher but just take it slow at your own pace until you are more comfortable with the exercises. There are some moves in here that can pull a muscle if you're not careful! I would recommend having a look at the DVD before using it for the first time so you know what to expect. Also there is nothing wrong with stopping the player and repeating a move or doing additional reps of it if you like. For the 10 minutes provided there is such a lot to do that high reps are not a priority.
  
  Lara uses a great variety of moves that can be incorporated into your own home workout if you're into mixing and matching. This is a DEFinite must buy!
  
  
• Video has a rapid pace...not sure about the results though
  By A3BAZSAG1Z8LN on 2007-02-06
  I didn't really love any of the segments (the DVD is broken up into five 10 minute segments). They were all just ok. I didn't like the wide range of experience needed throughout one 10-minute segment. For example, in the abs section, the first few minutes felt like nothing. I didn't feel like I was working my abs at all. Then the last move was something I couldn't even do properly. Another problem was that Lara (the instructor) didn't have very good breathing cues. Sometimes, she would make obvious exhales during the exercise so you know when to inhale and exhale (which is very important in pilates). But with some exercises, where only 3 or 4 reps were done, she would just talk the whole time. Also, you definitely need some sort of cushion for your knees, hips, and shoulders for most of the exercises. I recommend a yoga/pilates mat, and using only 2-3 lb. hand weights for the arm section (even if you can do curls and stuff with 5 or 8 lb. hand weights, the modifications in this DVD are too tiring w/the heavier weights). Most importantly, watch the DVD once or twice to learn the moves first, otherwise you'll feel too overwhelmed trying to learn the correct form and feel the workout. However, I would expect to see "rapid results" with the regular "10 Minute Solutions: Pilates" DVD compared to this one.
  
  
• give this one a try
  By A38QFALY7DDL3I on 2007-04-19
  i absolutely love this workout and i love lara too. i have been sticking with this routine about 3 months now, and i can really see and feel the change in my body. i feel so much stronger and have so much more energy, and all of my pants are suddenly way too big! i have her other pilates dvd which i like too, but i prefer this one. she is an excellent instructor, and i no longer dread working out but actually look forward to it! before her dvds i was a pilates beginner, but i think anyone can do this. just go slow at your own pace and stick with it. you WILL see results, i promise.
  
  
• My Favorite Exercise DVD
  By ATYBLHUZ2WPF5 on 2007-01-27
  I can't even begin to say enough good things about this DVD! Lara is an excellent instructor, with clear instructions and an encouraging calm voice. I usually think of exercise as a chore, but I actually enjoy doing this DVD! I also have her original 10 minute solution DVD and her yoga DVD, but this one is even better! You can feel the results almost immediately and I can tell I'm really toning up. I usually rotate between doing abs and arms one evening and buns & thighs and flexibility the next. If you are considering buying this DVD- go for it! It's worth every penny!
  
  
• Very awesome...
  By A1KT7NOEO69ING on 2007-03-22
  Want to get fit, but don't feel like jumping around or making with a ton of equipment or feeling like other people are staring at you? Give this one a shot. It's definitely worth the money.
  
  Set in a calm, slow environment, this one-on-one style set-up is really very cool. In the arm segment, you use 1 to 3 pound handweights, but otherwise, you use your body's own weight for resistance.
  The thing about this DVD that I like is that the burn tends to sneak up on you. You do a couple of reps of something and feel fine. Another couple of reps and you're going, "Whoaaaa, Momma, I can feel the burn now."
  
  As this is my first fitness DVD, I'd say it's good for beginners. I've had no injuries or weaknesses, and have thus far lost about 2 inches off my waist, after doing it for a month.
  I do, however, suggest that you go into the lovely programming section (I LOVE this feature) and select the Body Blast to do first. It starts simply, and gets your body warmed up for the other segments.
  
  Good luck!
  
  
• Disappointed
  By AR4JPUGB8BY0I on 2008-01-02
  I am a Pilates beginner (although am in decent shape from swimming, biking, running) and I first want to say that after two weeks of attempting to do the poses on this DVD I do feel a difference in my abs. But that's really it... Overall, I think I feel worse. My back hurts from some of the poses and my knees actually hurt too from some of the leg exercises. The instructer moves WAY too fast and doesn't really instruct how to do the poses properly. I think the stretching segment is the worst because it's way too fast. You end up rushing through and I feel like I'm pulling my muscles and not stretching them. I always thought that stretching should be a slower process... After about 8 times through the stretching segment, I still haven't felt "stretched" - just more in pain.
  
  
• Excellent Pilates Workout
  By A2ZESK7WOGTZ2K on 2007-09-07
  No, this DVD is not for beginners. It is proabale more appropriate for intermediate level pilates exercisers and up. The 10 minute segments are all very well done, the cuing is excellent, and laura's form is very good. The stretch segment is fantastic.
  
  
• Recommended for toning
  By AW94G28INCW2V on 2007-02-17
  This is a great DVD for toning! You can tailor your workout to what areas of your body you want to focus on. There's 5 different 10 minute segments to choose from. I always finish with Sleek and Stretch which feels great. I really feel it after and feel much better instantly! The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that the Total Body Blast segment involves some moves and transitions that take some time to get into and the transition is a little quick for me to keep up with. Great, quick work out!
  
  
• Great workout
  By AMVSPBYBWPJHL on 2007-02-21
  This video has great 10 minute workouts. It's not nearly as easy as you might think.
  
  
• Great Intro To the Workout Type
  By A1YHNWMH6614JZ on 2007-01-23
  I had been wondering about Pilates for quite some time, but was always shy about taking an actual class with all those semi-pro pilates students. This DVD was the perfect solution. It allowed me to learn at my own pace without feeling stupid. And the workout is GREAT.
  
  
• difference after just one week!
  By AOTGPA7QTJYOL on 2007-02-06
  I love this DVD. I've only been doing it 3x a week for the past two weeks and already I have noticed a major change in my legs, I can see muscles coming out that I haven't seen in awhile! I do the entire program right through and I definitely feel it when it's over! it also gets my heart rate up and I do end up sweating alittle which I don't normally do.
  I have atleast 15 other Pilates dvd's and this one is by far one of the best.
  
  
• my favorite arm exercise routine is on this DVD
  By A1D92849WWZRNA on 2007-02-13
  I have never looked forward to exercise. However, I know that fitness is important. Since I was new to Pilates, I was a bit discouraged the first time. After watching and attempting the exercises a few times, I started to really enjoy them. I am definitely not as flexible as the instructor, but I am still seeing results regardless. I just do my best and I can notice increasing amounts of strength every day. The instructor is pleasant and the exercises flow together nicely. I love the 10 minute arm routine. It is an innovative and fun challenge.
  
  
• Hard and Worth It
  By A1QKJ69FPDBM1B on 2007-03-05
  Wow. This stuff is not easy but you can modify the moves and Lara does give options. It moves very fast which I like because I get bored easily. I can definitely feel the impact of this one, especially the arms and shoulders. Some of the moves I just couldn't do, but it gives me a goal to work toward. I'm doing this one along with Double Pump Lower Body for a complete workout. The scenery is standard but pleasant. Lara's personality is great.
  
  
• Great overall pilates video!
  By AZ7VYZS8G8FF7 on 2007-03-15
  This is one of the best pilates videos out there. The video breaks up the 5 different segments into 10-minute workouts, you can customize your workout each time. It is wonderful! The instructor is great and doesn't waste alot of time explaining, instead gets right into it each time. So no time is wasted at all. It may be a little advanced for people just beginning Pilates though. I have received fast results as promised from this video.
  
  
• I Love it!
  By A3P1SBW1N4BPPF on 2007-05-05
  The absolute best pilates DVD that I have ever tried-and I've tried many. The segments are fast enough to let me do three at a time, working several different muscle groups while doing so in a reasonable amount of time for my life. And 10 minutes does not seem too short at all, because I am guided through the exercises so smoothly and with such simple, straightforward directions as I do them that I don't feel bored and slowed down-like I do with other DVDs. It all moves quick enough and the way that she guides the breathing is the simplest way I have ever seen. And the claim of rapid results is very accurate and best of all-when I do the DVD I feel so good for a good while after!
  
  
• Good for intermediate levels.
  By A1OSEISZU6T58I on 2007-05-15
  I like this DVD alot. She has some great moves. I don't really care for the 10 minute intervals, I would prefer to stay doing pilates the entire time but for those who only have 10 minutes than I can see them liking this. The only thing she is missing is some sort of warm up. I usually walk for 30 minutes first than go directly to this DVD, works well for stretching after doing cardio.
  
  

• 10 Minute Solution: Blast Off Belly Fat
• 10 Minute Solution: Fitness Ball Workouts
• 10 Minute Solution: Fat Blasting Dance Mix
• 10 Minute Solution: Pilates
• 10 Minute Solution Yoga