By Erin Renzas on September 29, 2011 in
Pilates is known for helping to sculpt a longer, and leaner body. The concentrated, exacting movements and breathing patterns help tone the torso and define muscles. But for fitness junkies who prefer a high-energy, high-intensity workout--Pilates can seem a bit of a bore. In fact, when we recently reported on the best Pilates DVDs and videos, one of the main criticisms we came across was that many of these workouts verged on a serious snooze session. Plus, the low-impact routines aren't going to give that calorie burn that so many crave.
So what's a woman (or man) to do when you want an exciting, pound-shedding workout that still delivers the coveted Pilates body? Try a "Pilates fusion" DVD. These workouts take the core principles of Pilates and combine them with elements of cardio, dance and yoga. The result is a higher energy routine that still gives you a long, strong body.
Physique 57 (*Est. $60 for series with ball and pump)
This dance-and-Pilates infused 3-disk program was listed as the Best DVD Series in our exercise videos and DVD report. Led by a high-energy instructor, the program combines isometric exercises and orthopedic stretches to help you get a feminine but lean body. Just ask Kelly Ripa or Christy Turlington--two of the many celebs that adore this program. Beginners beware! It's a challenge.
Exhale: Core Fusion Body Sculpt (*Est. $15)
The sister DVD, Exhale: Core Fusion Pilates Plus, was our overall pick for the best Pilates DVD. The Exhale: Core Fusion program mixes elements of the Lotte Berk method, Pilates and yoga. Also, Pilates Plus's exercises are geared more toward the beginner or intermediate fitness level. Those who are looking for a true challenge should consider Body Sculpt's workout. The editors of Fit Bottomed Girls, which reviews hundreds of fitness DVDs, call this one of the most difficult workouts they've reviewed. It is lower energy than Physique 57, but as the Fit Bottomed Girls say, "Yoga and Pilates meet hard-core strength, this video is fusion at its best."
The Bar Method (*Est. $20 each)
This series features three DVDs: The Beginners Workout, the Dancer's Body Advanced Workout, and the Pregnancy Workout. No matter which you choose, each features a blend of ballet, yoga and Pilates in an interval workout. The movements and exercises may seem smooth and graceful, but don't be fooled; these DVDs provide a deep burn and plenty of variation to keep even the most distraction-prone entertained.