Denise Austin Pilates DVD Review

Many people out there fear buying anything with Denise Austin at the helm simply because of the formidable presence that this woman seems to bring to every workout that she champions.  If you are one of those people, but would still like to benefit from her expertise, this is definitely the Pilates DVD for you.

We recommended  you also read:

In this video, Denise Austin will take you through precise exercise technique for the heavy Pilates-based workout that you'll go through in the first twenty minutes of your exercise routine.  Pilates works better as the technique gets better and that is why she spends a lot of time here making sure that you get everything exactly as you'd like it to be.

The second workout is the same length of time, but the second twenty minutes is a combination of Pilates and Yoga.  It is still a great workout, but there is less time spent going over the exact mechanics since it is assumed that you will apply your knowledge of Pilates gained from the first workout to this one when you start doing it as well.  The Yoga part is still discussed in great detail before the workout.

If you are intimidated by Denise Austin as a human being, there is no harm in admitting as much.  Many people are.  This is because of her overbearing personality and the frenetic pace at which she usually does her workouts when you see her on television or read her books.

However, this workout appears to be different.  People that have been uncomfortable with her previous attempts at fitness training seem to really gravitate towards this DVD and that is because Denise comes across much nicer in her presentation this time through.  Gone are the overbearing and somewhat condescending tones of voice, replaced instead by a woman that seems genuinely interested in helping to inspire you to fitness greatness.  You'll certainly feel good about yourself as you make your way through this workout and to date that is probably a first as far as the mass market is concerned for something created by Denise Austin.

In the end, the assessment that has to be made is that this program does indeed have the potential to work and work very well at that.  However, it is also important for you to realize that this program is by no means foolproof.  Despite Austin's relaxed demeanour, you still need to do a lot of hard work in order to be extremely precise in your Pilates and yoga movements.  To do otherwise is to leave a lot of gains on the table because in Pilates probably more so than in any other form of core training, proper exercise technique is critical to success.

You can get away with swinging motions in strength training with weights and still get some gains, but Pilates requires an excellent form from start to finish to work.  Austin can show you how to get that form, but only you can maintain it through both 20-minute workouts.

Add as favourites (51) | Quote this article on your site | Views: 3484

View the original article here

Read more »

The Flex Belt vs. Malibu Pilates Comparison

We have gathered the most important information on the Flex Belt and Malibu Pilates to help you make an informed decision between the two.   As popularity grows with workout equipment that tones, firms, and strengthens your core muscles, it can be hard to decide which one will be worth the money you spend on it.  In this comparison, you will find the concepts behind each device, as well as basic information that you need to know in order to help you make a knowledgeable decision.

You may also be interested in reading our in-depth articles on:

The Flex Belt is a medical grade device that uses electronic muscle stimulation (EMS) to contract and relax your stomach muscles.  It has been approved by the FDA to be effective and safe.  Once it is turned on, you will feel a mild pulsing sensation.  This will then be followed by a tightening on the abdominal muscles.  Your muscles will contract smoothly then hold themselves in a tensed position for only a few seconds and then they will relax again.

The great thing is you can control how powerful these sensations are with the intensity control.  The levels can go from 1 to 150.  The stronger you get, the higher the intensity.  That is what makes the Flex Belt so great.  It can be used for people of all fitness levels, whether just beginning or those already in good shape.

Another thing that people really like is its flexibility. This belt can be worn anywhere, at any time, while you are doing almost anything!  If you are late for work, just put on your belt and be working your abs while you are in the car driving to work.  If you are not in the mood for physical exercise, put on your belt and read a book or watch television.  Your abs will get a full workout every time you use the Flex Belt, no matter what you are doing at the time.

The Flex Belt has been through multiple 3rd party clinical tests, which is a unique feature in itself.  It has been tested for its effectiveness and safety by outside parties so that the manufacturers could prove without a doubt that the Flex Belt does exactly what it says it will, even though it could be hard to believe.  How often can you exercise your muscles without physically exercising them?  You can now, with the Flex Belt.

The Malibu Pilates Chair is a device that is to be used in conjunction with Pilates, which is a physical form of traditional exercise that has increased in popularity due to its outstanding and quick results.  The concept behind Malibu Pilates is to sculpt your legs, arms, buns, and thighs while working your abs with the adjustable spring resistance and easy to follow cardio moves.

The Malibu Pilates Chair was designed to fit into small rooms, so that anyone can use.    It is portable and folds up for easy storage.

How much does this product cost?

Flex Belt - $199 plus $12.95 S&HMalibu Pilates - $299.70 plus $14.95 trial fee plus $29.95 S&H

Have there been any 3rd party clinical trial tests?

Flex Belt – YES.  Multiple clinical trials have been conducted by a 3rd party to test for its effectiveness.Malibu Pilates – NO.  No 3rd party clinical trials have been conducted for this product.

Has the FDA cleared this product?

Flex Belt – YES.  This product has been cleared by the FDA.  This is what makes this product unique.  Most products of this nature are not required to be FDA cleared. Malibu Pilates - NO.  However, this does not make the device unsafe.  The FDA does not require approval.

Is exercise required with this piece of equipment?

Flex Belt - NOMalibu Pilates – YES

Where can you use this product?

Flex Belt – Use this product anywhere you want. Malibu Pilates – This product can be used in a small room.

Will this product tone other parts of your body?

Flex Belt – YES – Additional toning units are available individually to tone other areas of your body. Malibu Pilates - YES

Is the product portable?

Flex Belt – YESMalibu Pilates – YES.  Folds up and easy to carry.

Does this product need batteries?

Flex Belt – NO (has rechargeable supply unit)Malibu Pilates – NO

Is there a product warranty on this product?

Flex Belt – YES. (Two Years)Malibu Pilates – UNKNOWN

Are there any bonus materials that come with this product?

Flex Belt – YES.  Online Access to the Patent Pending Meal Planning Technology for advanced nutrition and weight loss (a $50 value). A box of Slim 10® Weight Loss Supplements, (a $90 value). Free 1-year subscription to either: Fitness, Elle, or Maxim Magazines (a $50 value).Malibu Pilates – YES. Workout DVDs, exercise plan, wall chart and meal plan.  Value unknown.

Both the Flex Belt and Malibu Pilates have excellent reviews regarding their effectiveness at working your core muscles.  They are both recommended highly by consumers.   The deciding factor will be in their concept, as well as price.

Malibu Pilates is quite a bit more expensive than the Flex Belt.  It also requires a lot more exercise and a lot more time on your part.  While both are portable, the Malibu Pilates Chair takes up much more room than the Flex Belt.

While both have highly favorable reviews, the Flex Belt seems to be the one most consumers are choosing because of its flexibility, effectiveness, and elimination of physical exertion needed to get a full abs workout.

Add as favourites (3) | Quote this article on your site | Views: 601

View the original article here

Read more »