Very disappointing
The directions are unclear and don't coordinate with the photo illustrations. Nothing could be worse for a beginning Pilates student. If anything, this book discouraged me from trying mat Pilates at home. Still looking for a good basic how-to book on this subject.
Wonderful Pilates Introduction
I like this book because Mari includes in the back of the book many exercises people can do BEFORE they begin the more intensive exercises. There are entire sections for people with "bad" necks, backs, and asthma in the back of the book-- these exercises are instrumental in preparing you to do the regular exercises. The book has a compassionate note in this respect, and it's helpful to know that Mari brought herself back from not being able to walk (because of an auto accident) using the Pilates in this book AND the beginning exercises in the back of the book. This may be why she is so good at getting people started in small steps. I've looked at other Pilates books, and they all seem to assume that everyone is ready to launch right into the Pilates routine. People who reviewed this book and thought that there were no beginning exercises must have missed the last thirty or so pages of this book (and the table of contents)! For people like me who always feel a bit rushed by the videos, this book works well because I can take my time and re-read the instructions to make sure I'm paying attention to all of the details of the movements.
Build your core!
This book is my favorite pilates book, hands down. It begins with a history of Pilates, then goes directly into "the hundred," the first workout. No special equipment is required and you don't have to be a Hollywood star to have good results. My sisters and I ALL use Mari's method and range from size 3 to 5 at over 5'4" each. Before, we ranged from 6 (soft) to 12. Keep in mind, this is a TONING workout. For aerobic activity, you'd want to do Mari's "Fat-Burning Workout," swim, dance, etc.
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