The New Method 20/20 - Perfect Pilates
Instructor Lisa Wheeler takes viewers through a blend of yoga's sun salutations, ballet's plié andrelevé, and Pilates's seal and scissors--with a dash of kickboxing--in the first of these two 20-minute sets. Pilates purists will no doubt object, but for those looking to strengthen their balance and work on their abs, Wheeler's routine get the job done. In the second routine Jennifer Kries employs more true Pilates moves: roll-ups, leg circles, criss-cross, spinal stretches, and the 100 (though her brief version could be better characterized as the 10!). Both series feature brief warm-ups and cool-downs. The live drumbeat accompaniment is less intrusive than in other New Method offerings, making this a good way for exercisers of any age to start or end the day.--Kimberly Heinrichs