First Steps Pilates Course - 3 DVD Boxset

He goes through all the moves in a lot of detail, but I had back ache after the first use. I have suffered with back ache in the past and despite being careful and following the instructions I think my lack of core strength was clear.

I am a pretty fit regular cardio, strength training and pilates exerciser. For my pilates getting to a teacher regularly is not possible , so I rely on DVDs. I recently came across "First Steps Pilates Course from yoopod" with teacher Amit Younger. What a difference to many other DVDs in my collection. Amit stands out as an excellent teacher. Why? Amit clearly explains and demonstrates (or uses expert pilates practioners to demonstrate) how to do the exercises, how to position oneself, which muscles one should be using and so on. Having then carefully done this preparation, then the sequence of excercises is performed with the correct number of times so one is working, with Amit watching and correcting. It is truly like having the best teacher there with you. I worked through all six classes and whilst I am probably more advanced than a first steps, I have certainly learnt from the classes I really feel I have improved in the way I perform the exercises and feel stronger as a result. I would highly recommend anyone doing pilates whether on their own or attending classes even if they believe they fairly advanced, to get this DVD. You will be pleased with the result. I cannot praise Amit and this YOOPOD DVD enough.

I really have enjoyed doing these classes. I used to do Pilates some years ago, these courses take you back to the start and allows you to hone your positions and feel confident to move on to the next class. I highly recommend this DVD its perfect for learning the right way to do each exercise. So far I am up to class 3, I'm taking my time just to make sure that I dont need to look at the screen all the time. I have felt and see an improvement to my posture, core strength and leg toning. I look forward to starting my day with a class from here. class is usually about 45 minutes, but then I am only at class 3 and there are 6-classes in total.

After reading reviews for a number of beginners' pilates DVDs, I opted for this one, as others despite having a higher overall rating, had some poor reviews, stating that the pace wasn't suitable and technique not explained enough. This DVD set is great. It's 6 x 45 minute "classes", which are progressive, so you start with the first and do that as many times as required, until you're comfortable and are able to do the exercises well, then you move onto the next class etc. I am still on the first DVD, which is challenging enough. The instruction is very clear, including breathing patterns and correct positioning and posture throughout. The exercises are demonstrated by one person and explained by another and it isn't cheesy, like other DVDs I've tried. I'm impressed and would certainly recommend for anyone who's new to pilates.

From what I've seen so far yes useful, particulary if you don't like going to classes. The instruction is quite good although sometimes I struggled to keep up and keep pausing so I can practice the moves/positions. I know this is down to individuals level of fitness and if you are a true beginner but would have liked to see a pamphlet included showing the basic moves; but also suggesting do x3 or x5 repetitions I'm making my mind up as I go.As never have done pilates or yoga but being of a reasonable fitness until recently it is and I hope will be useful; some I think will find it too easy/basic but you/we all have to start somewhere. Interestingly the free online lessons only last for 30 days so once you enter into it thats it.

I'd been advised to try pilates for my bad back, but going to classes didn't appeal, so after reading the other reviews I thought I'd give it a try.I'm glad I did. Amit explains everything very clearly, giving you opportunity to stop and look at the television to make sure you are doing it correctly. I have been doing each class for approximately six weeks, before feeling ready to move onto the next class. Sometimes at the start of the class I haven't been able to do the exercises very well, but by the point I am ready to move on, I able to do the exercises - it definately feels you are progressing as you move through the classes. I'm enjoying the classes, my stomach is flatter and my back has improved.

I found this dvd did exactly what the sales talk said it did. It is an informative and easy to follow beginners course which,as a beginner, is just what I wanted. It clearly shows the way to do the exercises with the use of explanation and demonstration. Each lesson progresses on from the one before and gives more exercises and less explanation in line with your growing skills. I like the calm, confident way the instructor explains each move and feel I am getting a real benefit from following the lessons. My skills are improving and I am becoming more confident with the moves. I can highly recommend this set of dvds and plan to move on and use the lessons on the website in the future.

Had a recurrence of some back problems recently and my physio basically said 'use it or lose it' and recommended that I take up Pilates again.I saw this DVD with the reviews and thought 'why not?'I did the first class and it was excellent so I had a look at yoopod.com.I was so impressed that I enrolled (great deals at the moment).Amit the tutor on the DVD then emailed me this morning to discuss my specific back concerns and gave me some really good advice.I'm a bit overwhelmed by this kind of service.Well done Amit and yoopod.