Pilates... a disappointment or a blast?

[KT_E_M]

I sorta went out on a limb tonight and got myself a Pilates video. I've heard that it's really good for you, and i am looking to build muscle as well as become more flexible and be in better overall shape.
Is Pilates gonna do it for me?
Has anyone else tried it, or practice it currently?

[AngelOfDance]

I LOVE pilates.

I hate the videos, though. I like doing it in a studio with a teacher. I can see where doing it with a video might be easier, and more convenient, though.

I do it to strengthen my core and lengthen my muscles- it's really popular among dancers. So far, for me, it's been working. I like it a lot. What I'd REALLY like to do is go to a pilates studio where they have the big wooden machines that you work on. That would be so cool.

Good luck! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do- if you get a chance to do it in a studio as well as doing it at home with your video, take it. A video can only do so much and a teacher can tell you exactly what YOU should do to get the most out of your workout.

[revelsunrise]

I really enjoy doing Pilates. I have a Cardio Pilates workout video. It's so much tougher than it looks though.

I like it because you can really feel it the next day. When I do an hour at night, the next morning I can feel all the tightness and soreness...more than when I work out at a gym!

[pseudo_vegan]

I used to do Pilates in a small class at a new gym that opened in my [small] hometown. It was nice; I liked the classroom setting. I really saw/felt results and I wish I still had a place to practice :(

However, I think the setting was extra nice for me b/c I was the youngest person in the class...
...by about 20 years, easy.

...nothin' like a bunch of grandmas in a room with their legs above their heads :lol: It was fun though; I highly recommend it.

:nigel: Cheers!

[bethann]

I prefer yoga, but that's a personal thing. It's definitly a great workout, and will do a good job on your abs, lower back, etc.

[skarrlett]

I do both pilates and yoga and find that they compliment eachother nicely.
Pick Your Spot Pilates is my fav Pilates DVD. After using that video for three times a week for one month, I noticed a lot of change. My abs were well defined, I lost 2" from my waist and my butt & thighs were really toned. It's a nice workout out that doesn't make you bulk up.

[Jennifer]

I take a Pilaties class that my Gym offers once a week. I really like it. I wish that they offered more during the week because I think I would see more results. In any case I feel very relaxed when I am done and it's a great way to start off a monday. I do feel
tightness in my abs the next day. I have DVD's at home but I get more out of the class because at least that way I know if I 'm doing things the right way..

[bizarro]

I loved Pilates until I hurt my neck doing it too much probably incorrectly. Will resume shortly.

[dumbledorium]

I love doing Winsor Pilates - you see results quickly, and it's very professionally done. Plus they show different versions of each move for people who have weak backs, necks, etc.