A gentle, relaxing, Pilates-based stretch workoutMaui Pilates: Abs Made Easy is led by instructor Eva Bander and filmed on a Hawaiian beach. Although it isn't quite as focused on abs as the title suggests, it is certainly "easy" in that it's a very gentle program, more of a mat-based stretching routine with some Pilates moves thrown in. The DVD is chaptered to include a short Introduction by Eva, and the workout itself includes three segments, Warm-Up, Abs, and Back.
Surprisingly, the Warm-Up was the longest section at 20.5 minutes. Eva begins in a seated cross-legged position for breathing, overhead reaches, shoulder rolls, and spine/neck stretches; she also brings the legs forward for a seated forward bend. She then moves into a side saddle position for a slow twist to both sides, and she continues stretching with the legs in cobbler's and straddle positions. The Pilates mermaid follows, and finally, Eva comes back to a cross-legged position for some final shoulder/neck stretches to complete the warm-up. For the...
Very good therapeutic yoga/pilates mixThis DVD may be better entitled therapeutic pilates for back & abs. It is a very relaxing, slow moving routine that will help people with chronic back and body pain and/or older people. I use it on days when I am not feeling well to get some movement and stretching throughout my body. Eva Bondar has developed this all-floor routine (no standing required) with a lovely ocean front setting. The filming is somewhat low resolution and a bit of haze in the air on this day on the west coast of Maui (quite common). There is no music, but you can hear the ocean waves as Eva narrates with voice over. The routine is primarily yoga postures with a good hold times, repeats, and breathing. There's lots of forward bends, back bends, and side bends. There are only a few pilates moves and it may be boring if you're looking for a challenging pilates workout.
Some of my favorite stretches are included with interesting variation. Eva adds point/flexing, rotations, relaxation, and breathing...
Maui Pilates: Abs Made EasyThis has to be one of the best Pilate stretch and Ab videos on the market, as far as I am concerned.
It has everything you could ask for in a stretch video.
Eva is a wonderful instructor who takes you through each move slowly, and precisely. Every move is very easy to follow and flows from one to the other with no jerky confusing moves.
The settiing couldn't be more beautiful. Filmed on a beautiful beach in Maui Hawaii. The only sound you hear is Eva's voice and the tranquil sound of the waves as they roll into shore.
It's a program designed for any age or fitness level. I myself am 65 and have found that over the years my range of movement seems to be getting smaller and smaller. And with 5 and 6 year old granchildren who expect me to be their playmate when they come over. I can't allow myself to become as stiff as a fence post.
Eva's program is perfect. I love it!!!!!! It's something I look forward too each day.
It's a wonderful way to start your day if...
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