Stott Pilates - Basic Pilates (formerly: 22-Minute Matwork) [VHS]
"In the same way that a tree needs to be strong to support its limbs, the goal in Stott Pilates is to develop and maintain core stability as you work towards optimal strength and flexibility," says Moira Stott-Merrithew. Pilates uses the core muscles of the abdominals to develop a strong, streamlined body and help you move with ease and avoid injury. This 28-minute introduction to Stott Pilates is for beginners; instructor Moira Stott-Merrithew introduces you to the principles and techniques, such as breathing, "imprinting," and shoulder stabilization. She then teaches a 20-minute workout consisting of 14 (although the video cover claims 22) exercises in their most basic forms. For example, she teaches "the 100s" by first having you do just the arms, then add the correct breathing, then add the abdominal contraction. Although she explains each exercise patiently, she sometimes performs them quickly, so you may want to pause the video and practice at your own pace. She rarely offers modifications, and some of the exercises demand strength and flexibility even at the beginning level--it might have been helpful to have another demonstrator showing modifications. The production is nice, with clear visuals and soft music.--Joan Price