The Bottom Line
This is an excellent next step from the beginner Pilates video, with more challenging moves shown in both a modified and an advanced form, so you have options to improve. As in the first video, the cueing is excellent and the form pointers offer deeper understanding of positioning, alignment and breathing.
Pros
- A nice step up from the beginner video, adding challenge without too much difficulty
- The moves flow well and include fundamental Pilates moves for core strength
- Excellent cueing and instruction makes the routine easy to follow
Cons
- Music is a bit bland
- No DVD menu to aid in navigation
Description
- A short, 35-minute workout involving challenging Pilates moves for Intermediate exercisers
- A natural progression from the beginner DVD, this routine is more challenging but very doable
- The routine involves basic core moves at a slow pace so you have time to learn proper alignment
- Similar format to the beginner DVD with hands-on instruction and excellent cueing
Guide Review - Total Pilates - Rael System 17 for Intermediate Exercisers
The format for this video is similar to the beginner DVD. The instructor, Rael Isacowitz, has three exercisers moving through the poses as he gives hands-on instruction and provides excellent cues for each move. The video starts with the same warm-up moves as the beginner DVD (pelvic rocking, pelvic curl, shoulder warm-ups, etc.) as well as new exercises such as leg circles, single leg stretch, shoulder bridges, spine twists, side leg lifts, the swan and leg kicks. Much like the beginner workout, I liked the simplicity--you do fewer exercises for a longer period of time, allowing you to concentrate on each one instead of blowing through a lot of exercises at a breakneck pace, as in other videos. His cueing is excellent and the workout itself is short, about 35 minutes long, a great add-on to another workout. I think even beginners might be able to tackle this video, since he does offer modifications (i.e., in leg circles you do the move with bent knees, but he also shows it with straight legs). This video is very straightforward and plain--no elaborate sets or music. If you want something fancier, you may not like this series. Overall, this is an excellent video I'll do often...moreso than the beginner DVD. The DVD is $19.99 and available at their website. Stay tuned for my review of the last video in the series, Total Pilates Rael System 27 for Advanced exercisers.
