Rating: 
Summary: The next best thing to a live class.
Review: I've always hated "How To" books of any kind. However, I decided to buy Alycea Ungaro's Portable Pilates book because it comes with an instructional cd, and I thought, "Hey, this is different!" I have a crazy schedule, and although I love taking mat classes, it is often difficult for me to get to one. Well, I opened up the book and popped the cd into my cd player, and it was fantastic! The tempo was just right, and the cues and helpful reminders were so clear, I hardly needed to look at the illustrations or read the explanations. But it's great to have them there for when I'm not exactly sure of my knowledge. Of course I still go to mat classes when I can, but it's wonderful to have the option of giving myself a good workout at home, or take it with me when I travel out of town.
Rating: 
Summary: It is just what it says - PORTABLE
Review: I've been attending "Authentic" Pilates mat classes for a while and picked this up to supplement. I first listened to it in the car, just to hear what she says and presents and it's very similar to the one I attend (though without the French accent). It's good to have experience with Pilates before using this, as having someone adjust your positioning the first few times really helps you to make sure you get it right. And the descriptions in this book and on the CD seem to assume you have had experience with the movements.But, if you want an instructor you can take with you on trips, or when you're not having classes so you can get in your workout and not slack off, this is a great thing! I'd be interested to see more like this! (The reviewer who mentioned DVD didn't read the description very well.)
Rating:
Summary: It is just what it says - PORTABLE
Review: I've been attending "Authentic" Pilates mat classes for a while and picked this up to supplement. I first listened to it in the car, just to hear what she says and presents and it's very similar to the one I attend (though without the French accent). It's good to have experience with Pilates before using this, as having someone adjust your positioning the first few times really helps you to make sure you get it right. And the descriptions in this book and on the CD seem to assume you have had experience with the movements. But, if you want an instructor you can take with you on trips, or when you're not having classes so you can get in your workout and not slack off, this is a great thing! I'd be interested to see more like this! (The reviewer who mentioned DVD didn't read the description very well.)
Rating:
Summary: First "Portable" exercise book that IS just that!
Review: Pilates has never been presented in such a convenient and non-intimidating manner. Alycea really gets you excited about the exercises--making it fun, rather than an "I-have-to-exercise-now" manner. I always find vacation, work travel and any other "leaving town" events as perfect excuses to skip my regular workout. Now I have no more excuses. Portable Pilates makes it so easy to just toss this book and CD into my suitcase and take my workout with me. Alycea's voice is helpful and encouraging, plus the illustrations are SO CUTE--I look at those beads of sweat flying and it keeps me going! This is a wonderful book, perfect for anyone that's had a few sessions of Pilates and wants to keep focusing on the mat workout. You won't be disappointed, my tummy is already stronger!
Rating:
Summary: convenient and effective
Review: Portable Pilates has really been instrumental in helping to lose the weight from pregnancy. Within weeks, my stomach feels tighter and I've dropped almost all of the weight! The mat class is easy to follow and I find it wonderful that I can simply follow the instructor's voice without having to watch a TV screen. It is also convenient for me - I don't have to leave the baby with a sitter while I go to the gym!!
Rating:
Summary: Take it ANYWHERE!
Review: Portable Pilates is a fantastic way to get in shape! My wedding is in 6 months and Portable Pilates is helping me look great for that day! Since it is on CD, you do not have to worry about keeping your eyes on the TV screen, like so many other exercise programs. You can do it at home, in the gym, anywhere that you can take your CD walkman! Alycea's voice keeps you motivated, in step, and the rhythm of music keeps you on track! Its great for beginners too! She recommends modifications of advanced positions so everyone can do the exercises and succeed! Try it out - you'll be thankful that you did!
Rating:
Summary: Forget all those how-to Pilates books - THIS IS THE ANSWER!!
Review: Portable Pilates is fantastic. I can't imagine why someone didn't think of making a CD Pilates class sooner. I have purchased several of the Pilates books on the market and while most of them are good, this is the only one that actually prompted me through an entire Pilates mat workout. I did not stop moving until it was over. Actually, the instructions were so simple I hardly had to look at the book at all. I have been to Tribeca Bodyworks and was so impressed with my classes there that I purchased this Book/CD combo....WOW! I was sore in all the right places, my abs and my rearend and my inner thighs too. Alycea, the author even wrote up a little test to take at the end with extra pointers. If you can't get to a real studio or just can't get there enough, Portable Pilates is the answer. I understand they are producing a whole series of these sets....I can't wait for the next one. Thank you Alycea Ungaro!
Rating:
Summary: the best complement to a Pilates class!
Review: The book and cd is wonderful for people who have taken Pilates classes and want to practice at home. The movements are at an beginner-intermediate level, so I recommend some classes or a real beginner video before starting. I really like the set because I can still do Pilates at home even when I don't want to go to the gym.
Rating:
Summary: thorough & complete
Review: this is a perfect compliment for the beginner to low intermediate student who wishes to add workouts outside of the studio. the cueing is good, there is no annoying background music, we get plenty of emphasis on breathing, and the pace is workable. the mat exercises performed are: the 100, roll up, leg circles, rolling like a ball, single & double leg stretch, single & double straight leg stretch, criss cross, spine stretch, corkscrew, saw, single leg kick, neck pull, side series: front, side & leg circles, teaser, swimming, seal, finishing with releve. there is a useful workout rating chart at the end of the book which helps as a reminder of important cueing.
ms. ungaro has a pleasant voice, gives cues clearly, and reinforces with corrections of posture flaws common to all students.
i gave this only 4 stars because of the high price for a 20 page book and audio CD. the dvd "pilates for dummies" is only [price].
Rating:
Summary: Every Body Pilates!!
Review: What a deal! A book and CD that I can take with me anywhere and don't have to be dependent on a TV to workout. This travel style set is geared for those with a minimum exposure to Pilates - well that was me for sure. But after just a few rehearsals - I look like a pro. The results are fantastic - I no longer have to suck in my gut to zip up my pants. Portable Pilates saved me from having to buy a whole new wardrobe. A VERY worthwhile investment. ...
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