Search - Denise Austin: Mat Workout Based on the Work of J.H. Pilates on DVD

Michelle M. from ARAGON, GA
Reviewed on 3/14/2011...

Video quality is lacking. Denise has clear instruction. Have not done the first 20 minute mat workout. The second 20 minute workout is a good mix of pilates-style exercises with yoga stretching. Enjoyable and great for days I'm short on workout time.

2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.

Great workout for lower back problems!

30307 | Atlanta, GA United States | 01/14/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First, I want to tell every advanced exerciser who is terrified of buying a Denise Austin video -- FEAR NOT. She is not cloying in this video. I have seen Denise on TV and cannot handle how she talks down to her audience (in her kind, well-meaning way) and refers to abs of "tummies" and to cardio as "burning butter." But I could handle Denise here. In fact, this is a reasonably challenging workout and Denise Austin is somewhat sedate in her presentation. What's better, she has created a great workout for those brand-new to the Pilates scene. But let me get to the real point: I don't care if you call it pilates or yoga or Denise Austin's matwork. This video just plain works. If nothing else, everyone should buy this video to prevent back problems. This video's focus on the abs and back (stretching/core stablization) has helped me eradicate some lower back tension that has been nagging me for years. The workout is gentle yet very effective.My only other exposure to Pilates has been through the well-known introductory pilates video, The Method: Precision Toning. I find that Denise Austin's Pilates workout is more interesting and even more challenging for me than the Method's. Sorry if this offends classic Pilates crowd. That's just my experience. What's more, Denise's video is broken down into two 20-minute segments. That works for me! I'm more likely to do a 20-minute pilates/yoga workout than a 45-minute one.So a bouquet of roses goes to Ms. Austin. She's created an interesting, informative and effective routine of yoga and pilates and made it accessible to busy people new to pilates. I hope she continues to produce more videos along this line."

WOW! WHAT A WORKOUT!

J. S. WILLARD | CHARLESTON, SC USA | 09/26/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am not a fan of Denise Austin, too perky, not great technique, but she changed my opinion on this! This a great Pilates workout technique and cuing is great. Both workouts are about 20 minutes which is great to incorparate with other workouts or use alone when time is limited. Workout 1 is all pilates and your abs will feel strong and flat after about 3 sessions. Workout 2 combines yoga and pilates and it is tough! This provides even more toning and opens your hips and just makes you feel lean and graceful. For years I've had lower back problems, yoga and pilates have provided me tremendous relief. If you're looking for a do-able pilates tape this is it."

Denise says it all "YOU will feel terrific"

Ellen L. Wilson | Searsport, ME United States | 08/27/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This 42 minute video begins with a brief introduction which follows with 2 pilates toning sessions. The first one is 22 minutes long and features some of the well know Pilates stretches as THE HUNDRED and LEG CURLS, etc. The second session is tough with pilates/yoga based toning..you will feel it!This is a great addition for home exercisers, goes well with her recent book, "LOSING THOSE LAST 10 LBS." and for those who haven't seen/read this book, Denise suggests 2 pilates/yogatoning days a week. If you have seen Denise in the past and/or present you will see that she has achieved a leaner look using this toning style.Denise is her usually CHEERLEADER self, but i like her toning style, and it has seemed to work for her.I like the 2 short segments you can do l or both. Toning is what she does best, in my opinion and she shines in this one!"