Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates - Four DVD Pregnancy Series (2005) Review

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(More customer reviews)Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates Four DVD Pregnancy Series is meant to take women from conception all the way through pregnancy and delivery. The DVDs can be purchased individually or as a set:
DVD 1: Triple Threat: Get in Shape Before Your Pregnancy
DVD 2: Pilates for Pregnancy: Maintain strength and prepare for birth
DVD 3: Post Pregnancy & C-Section Recovery: Get your pre-pregnant body back
DVD 4: Exercises with Baby: Bond with your newborn and stay in shape
Jennifer's impressive resume includes distinctions such as Certified Pilates Instructor, Master Trainer, Labor and Post-Partum Support Doula, ACE and PMA, Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis & Yoga certified. Her expertise, passion and compassion come through on all four DVDs.
DVD 1: Triple Threat is a fantastic workout for all women, not just those wanting to get pregnant. Combining the elements of Kickboxing and Pilates together, I sometimes forgot that this was supposed to be "Pilates" as for the majority of the workout I was standing and not lying. There is a concentrated abdominal portion of the video that takes some very advanced exercises, and my abs felt sufficiently worked at the end, as did my arms, legs, and back. I felt absolutely wonderful.
DVD 2: Pilates for Pregnancy: shows a very pregnant Jennifer leading a class with two other women, one who is demonstrating 1st and 2nd Trimester Modifications with Jennifer and the other model demonstrating 3rd Trimester. As neither model seemed to be pregnant, the modifications for each trimester could have been better demonstrated if each woman was working with one trimester. Because the second trimester involves so much transition, a first time mother might not realize that at times it would actually be more appropriate to follow the 3rd Trimester ladies rather than the 1st. That said, she does a great job of repeatedly reminding the mother to listen to her body, and take appropriate modifications.
DVD 3: Post Pregnancy & C-Section Recovery: An adorable post-pregnancy Jennifer demonstrates a fantastic workout for brand new mothers who have the luxury of taking time away from their baby. Before she gets into the workout though, Jennifer, 3 days post-partum and still in the hospital, gives new moms an idea of what they are in for, and some tips for recovery steps that can be taken while still in the hospital.
DVD 4: Exercises with Baby: is an incredibly challenging abdominal workout with baby. Jennifer demonstrates the whole workout with her 4 month old daughter, who is a full participant in the workout, occasionally trying to roll away as we all know our babies will do as soon as we put the DVD in.
Overall, this series is fantastic for new and expectant mothers. The only criticism I have is that, if I were to purchase this while pregnant, it wouldn't occur to me to watch the Post-pregnancy DVD until after the baby was born, and I would have missed out on the great "while in hospital" advice from Jennifer. I also think the triple threat workout could be used for anyone, pregnant or not, male or female. If you are thinking about getting pregnant, or know someone who is, the boxed set is a great bargain and, even if it's too late to get the "Triple Threat" in before pregnancy, it will be a great video for years to come.

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Everything You Need- Before, During and After PregnancyFOUR AMAZING DVD'S WITH EVERYTHING YOUR BODY NEEDS TO PREPARE, MAINTAIN AND RECOVER FROM PREGNANCY!The Fusion Pilates Pregnancy Series is best thing you can do for yourself and you baby.These four videos by leading pregnancy exercise expert Jennifer Gianni provide you with everything your body needs to prepare, maintain and recover from the traumatic effects of pregnancy. DVD ONE:FUSION PILATES TRIPLE THREAT: A dynamic combination of low impact cardio, Pilates toning and balance work. The three disciplines are intertwined in an intense workout that keeps the body guessing- and working.An informative introduction teaches the foundations of the Fusion Pilates basics so you get the most out of the Main Workout.This workout will get your body ready for pregnancy and is a great overall workout to keep anyone in top shape.DVD TWO:FUSION PILATES FOR PREGNANCY: Discover how yoga infused Pilates can keep you in shape during and after your pregnancy. Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates for Pregnancy is the first Pilates based workout designed to give pregnant women a challenging workout, without compromising safety. DVD THREE:FUSION PILATES FOR POST PREGNANCY AND C—SECTION RECOVERY: A MUST for getting back your pre-pregnant body.Includes real footage of Jennifer immediately after her C-Section offering tips on what to expect and how to care for yourself during your hospital stay.Also includes a SAFE First Six Weeks Exercise Plan, which will gently prepare you for Jennifer’s Main Post Pregnancy Workout.DVD FOUR:FUSION PILATES – EXERCISING WITH BABY: Get in shape, have fun and spend quality time with your baby.Fusion Pilates Exercise with Baby is a fun and varied program that lets your baby take part in this quick head to toe workout that’s great for busy moms.

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Leisa Hart's FitMama - Prenatal Workout Review

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(More customer reviews)I own almost two dozen aerobic and strength training videos. Some offer challenging workouts. Others were a waste of time and money. Fit Mama is my first pregnancy video (although this will be my third child). IT IS EXCELLENT! Here is a summary:
INTRODUCTION - Leisa Hart first tells you what to expect in her video. She explains that the abdominal exercises have been modified to prevent the vertical muscles, the recti abdominis, from separating during pregnancy. Guidelines from the American College of OBGyNs are listed. Leisa recommends a frequency of 3 to 4 times per week, but completing one section at a time vs. the entire 60 minutes fit my schedule better.
SALSA (20 min) - The setting is bare: one large room with hardwood floors and two glass paneled doors in back. The participants are separated into groups. Leisa, in her third trimester, stands in the center. On her left are two women in their second trimester. Two women in their first trimester are on her right. All movements in the Salsa portion of the tape, such as the mambo cha-cha-cha, are acceptable for moms at any stage. I salsa on carpet and find it sometimes tough to slide. When Leisa introduces a new move, she performs it twice, then asks you to join her. Her arm cues make it easy to follow along. She frequently asks, "How do you feel?" so that you can monitor your intensity level.
YOGA FAT BURN (20 min) - This section helped ease my lower back pain. Leisa focuses on breathing techniques and stresses correct knee placement. In the Warrior position, the moms in the first tri put their hand on the floor, second tri put forearm to thigh, and Leisa places her hand on her thigh. But she suggest you do the position most comfortable for you. They complete 3 repetitions for each side.
LABOR AND DELIVERY PREP (6 min) - Yoga ball and strap are optional. I had neither, but performed the exercises, like Kegels, with no trouble. Different variations for the ab exercises match the stage of pregnancy.
PRENATAL STRETCH AND RELAX (8 min) - This sections includes cat stretches, breathing techniques, and positions for each stage of pregnancy. Leisa inserts helpful tips, such as the importance of laying on your left side to get nutrients to the baby.

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Buns of Steel instructor Leisa Hart continues to create dynamic programs that are safe, fun and effective to get you the results you deserve! Her warm, approachable personality and impeccable cueing has motivated millions to embrace exercise. As an ACE and AFAA certified instructor with over 19 years fitness industry experience, Leisa specializes in Prenatal Exercise, Lifestyle & Weight Management, Yoga and Toning.Prenatal exercise will help you:- Ease back pain - Improve digestion - Avoid calf cramps - Increase energy levels - Avoid excessive weight gain - Ease emotional highs and lows - Prepare for labor and delivery - Bond with your baby - Bounce back more quickly after deliveryStay fit through each stage of your pregnancy with International Fitness Expert and expectant mom Leisa Hart. This innovative method helped her stay fit and energetic during her first pregnancy. FitMama Prenatal Workout follows the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Leisa will help you increase your self-confidence with your changing body and feel great from conception to delivery!

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Complete Pregnancy Fitness with Erin O'Brien (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)I normally cannot stand work out videos but knew I should do something besides walking to keep my fitness level up. I was pleasantly surprised by this video.
1. Erin O'Brien is not irritatingly peppy, but realistic and down to earth. There is very little excess dialogue, which I appreciated. She imparts just the right amount of info and throws in a few extras about physiology and anatomy, which I appreciated. Plus there are water and pee breaks! ( which I really needed)
2. The workout is probably best suited for someone who has done a few classes before and has at least a moderate level of fitness. But I suppose a beginner could simply watch it a few times before attempting if it were a bit too fast paced for them. She adds modifications for times when the heart rate is too high, which is nice. I thought at first it would be too easy for me, but oops. It got me! (in a good way, of course)
3. The workout is complete, I thought, especially given it's timeframe of only 40 minutes. That includes a short stretching session afterwards, which made me feel really good.
4. The production value was great -judicious amount of camera angle changes and fades, making it easy to copy her body mechanics. Simple set-an average, well lit living room. All the props she used were standard furniture. I had to make some small adaptations but all were easily accomplished.
5. Best of all-unobtrusive music, used mostly to provide rhythm. No trendy production, no silly distracting lyrics, just background percussion oriented music at a nice soft volume (Although I really dislike the music that plays for the menu, but that doesn't matter)
OVERALL: I highly recommend this work out video and look forward to using the post-natal DVD as well.

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Product DescriptionAn efficient, supportive training program for the big day and your new lifeWhether you re a regular exerciser who wants to stay fit or newly committed to exercise for your health and your baby s, Hollywood trainer Erin O Brien offers you safe and effective workouts that can take you every step of the way.This box set includes both of these programs (also sold separately):PRENATAL FITNESS FIX While seven months pregnant with her second child, Erin leads you in a 40-minute blend of fat-burning cardio, muscle toning, strength training, and tension-relieving stretches. Also includes a 20-minute partner workout, which Erin demonstrates with her husband, actor James Denton (Desperate Housewives). "This is the one that will make you sweat. It's also amusing and entertaining"Chicago Tribune. POSTNATAL RESCUE Ease back into exercise with Erin s 3 invigorating progressions. In just 15 minutes a day, rehabilitate your back, abdominals, buttocks, inner thighs, and hips. With a bonus section of gentle first stretches, Erin guides you from the very beginning of your recovery up to one year postpartum. Erin O Brien has 10 years of experience as a pre/postnatal exercise specialist working in elite fitness clubs in New York City and Los Angeles. She holds several certifications, including one in pre/postnatal training from the Esquerre Fitness Group. Consult your doctor before attempting these routines or any other fitness program.

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Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm 7 months pregnant, and highly recommend Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Work Out (even if you are not pregnant). Finally, a prenatal dvd that actually tones the body without jerking!! You definitely "feel the burn," without feeling like you're hurting the baby.
My favorite section is the stretching. It totally relaxes and stretches out my pregnancy hip aches. The music is meditative and inspiring. I feel totally de-stressed and focused on loving my baby and body.
Another plus, a hidden surprise, there's a postnatal work out. Also, I love that I can do the work out with just the music, which helps me focus even more.
I couldn't get through the rest of my pregnancy without this! I get people commenting on how fit I am at 7 months. Preggo's you must get this DVD!!

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Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout integrates elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility to help you stay fit and lean during the incredible journey of pregnancy. The dynamic flow of postural movements will burn calories, sculpt and tone your body, and lengthen the muscles, helping you to achieve a long and lean physique during your pregnancy.This workout offers three segments: 20 minutes standing work, 20 minutes mat work, and 10 minutes stretching with relaxation. In addition, this DVD includes a bonus 10 minute post-natal abs segment starring Leah Sarago. You can choose one segment at a time or all three for a complete, total body workout. Music only option.Music composed by Alberto Rivera.Instructors: Suzanne Bowen and Leah Sarago.Executive Producers: Suzanne Bowen and Leah Sarago.Ruah Mind Body Movement: Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout ©2009Please consult your physician before beginning this or any exercise program.

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10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates Review

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(More customer reviews)After a shaky first trimester, my doctor gave me the ok to exercise again. I started shopping for a good, fun workout DVD. I tried the "Buff Moms-to-be" workout - don't bother with that one. Way to wimpy. Next, I got the "The Perfect Pregnancy Workout" DVD. I love that workout. By far my favorite. However, there isn't much core work involved, so I thought I'll get a pilates DVD, so I can alternate workouts. So, I ordered "Pilates during Pregnancy." That workout is way too brutal. It made me hurt all over, and not in a good way. Finally, I ordered the "10-Minute Solution Prenatal Pilates" DVD. Oh, how I love this workout. The whole body gets a workout. Every muscle in your body is working. The workout is just right - not too wimpy and not too hard. Very doable. You'll feel great afterwards. The instructor is very pleasant, and the background is very inviting. The music is there, but not overpowering. There are five 10 minute sections: Standing Pilates, Core Pilates, Pilates for Buns & Thighs, Total Body Pilates, and Pilates for Flexibility (my favorite). You can select the "Play All" feature, or you can create your own workout by selecting only the sections you want to do. I recently started some physical therapy for my sciatica, and the therapist commented on how great my muscle tone is, especially in my core. I told her about this DVD, and she told me to keep it up, since it seems to work well. I'm now 34 weeks pregnant, and I will continue to use this DVD and "The Perfect Pregnancy Workout" as long as I can.
A number of people have raised some concerns about some of the exercises on this DVD that are done laying on your back. First of all, the amount of time you spend on your back is extremely short. A couple of minutes at the most. I spend more time laying on my back during ultrasounds. Also, the physical therapist gave me some exercises to do at home for my sciatica, and those exercises have me laying flat on my back for 3-5 minutes, so it can't be that bad. Also, while you are laying on your back, during this workout, you are moving around, so I could imagine that prevents blockage of blood flow. But, you need to do what you feel comfortable with. I would definitely recommend this DVD for a great pre-natal workout.

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No Time To Exercise? We have the solution for you – the 10 Minute Solution! Everyone can find at least ten minutes in their day, and we’ve developed 5 dynamic workouts that are just 10 minutes each. The workouts were designed to help you stay fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy. These compact workouts fit into even the busiest of schedules. Split them into 5 separate workouts or do them all together for one amazing, prenatal Pilates workout! Highlighted in the August 16th, 2007 issue of The New York Times, this DVD will allow you to modify your workouts to your pregnant body.Pilates For Buns & Thighs: Get ready to strengthen your lower body and get toned, firm thighs and buns – even as your belly continues to get bigger.Standing Pilates: For this segment, instructor Lizbeth Garcia reworked traditional mat work into standing exercises that help improve strength, balance and coordination – things needed throughout pregnancy, especially needed in the third trimester.Core Pilates: This workout focuses on strengthening your core muscles to help you bounce back from delivery and may even help to reduce lower back pain during pregnancy.Pilates For Flexibility: Allow your body and mind to relax while you focus on releasing tight muscles through fluid exercises that will increase your flexibility and overall sense of well-being.Total Body Pilates: Designed to develop overall muscle strength and flexibility, this segment will help you firm and tone your body. It may also make delivery easier by teaching you how to breathe deeply and evenly while tightening the muscles of your pelvic floor.POSTNATAL BONUS WORKOUT: FLAT BELLY FAST As a special bonus to use after your pregnancy, this core-focused segment created by instructor Suzanne Bowen zeros in on the deepest abdominal muscles with a singular goal: to flatten your belly fast. A set of 2- 3 pound dumbbells and 1-2 pillows are recommended for this workout.

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Yoga Pregnancy: Pre and Post Natal Workouts Review

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(More customer reviews)The prenatal workout here is perfect for a pregnant woman. The yoga is moderately paced, not as slow as the Crunch Yoga Mama DVD, for example. The instructor, Heather Seiniger, has a soothing manner and keeps the class moving along nicely. There is a good, logical flow between the postures.
The sequencing is approximately as follows:
10 minutes of warm-ups: side stretch, gentle twist, cat/cow, plank, downward dog, child's pose
Squats and prenatal sun salutes
Tree pose
Standing poses: warrior II, extended side angle
More squats
Side stretch, gentle twist and savasana (final relaxation)
All the squatting is supposed to be great for the birth muscles and also your lower back. I always feel calm and refreshed after I do this DVD.

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YOGA FIT PREGNANCY Pre- and Post-Natal Yoga WorkoutsPresented by Heather Seiniger: certified Yoga Instructor... and Mom.
Pregnancy and Mothering are some of the most challenging andfulfilling times in a womanÆs life. An appropriate yoga practice canhelp us stay healthy, happy and calm, both as we prepare for andrecover from our babyÆs arrival. The 30-minute pre-natal sequence isdesigned specifically to help moms-to-be develop the strength,flexibility and mental focus that will help them not only in thedelivery process but also in facing the new challenges of mothering.

The post-natal program addresses the needs of moms who want to getback in shape while also releasing tension and fatigue. This 30-minuteroutine provides safe ways to build core strength, as well as effectivetools for increasing energy and reducing stress. Using breath andmental focus, yoga is one of the most effective tools for training thebody and calming the mind. Led by yoga instructor, Heather Seiniger,women of all levels of yoga experience can work safely and willimprovement with regular practice. Modifications are offered toincrease difficulty and provide a more challenging routine, as needed.
Two Workouts on one DVD will help:
Control Weight GainAlleviate Back PainEase DeliveryGet Your Body Back Fast!

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Erin O'Brien's Prenatal Fitness Fix (2005) Review

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(More customer reviews)I did the 40 minute routine for the 1st time yesterday. I am only 8 weeks pregnant and found this DVD to be somewhat challenging. I can't imagine what it would be like for someone who is further along. I would recommend this workout for someone that is already a seasoned exerciser. It's fast paced, so I would not recommend this DVD for a beginner. I am an avid runner (average 8-15 miles/week) and regular gym visitor (4 days/week using an elliptical and bike), a yoga student (1-2 days/week) and a former step aerobic student. What I didn't like about this routine was that I had to re-arrange my furniture in order to do some of the exercises in Segment 1 (the 40 minutes is divided into 4 segments.) I wished the DVD had prepared me for what was needed as far as "equipment." I had to keep running around the living room/dining room to "find" and "arrange" the needed equipment. So those of you that wish to purchase this DVD, you will need a sturdy coffee table, the edge of your couch, a flat wall, a dining room chair, a living room cushioned chair (I don't have one of these and used the loveseat) and an exercise mat. The other thing I didn't like about the DVD were some of the crazy camera angles and the fact that Erin doesn't always countdown the number of reps. For some of the floor exercises, you are supposed to keep a long neck (looking down while on all fours), however Erin wasn't giving instructions and I had to keep looking up at the TV to figure out what I supposed to be doing. Overall, I did have a pretty good workout. It got my heart rate up and I did sweat a little. I'm sure I will get better at keeping up with the routine.

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"Erin’s a pro at fitness, she’s a pro at pregnancy, and she fuses these together for two perfect prenatal workouts. I highly recommend this fitness program." —Ellen Barrett, M.S., bestselling exercise video star and author of Weights for Weight Loss Staying fit and energized throughout your pregnancy just got easier. Custom-created by Hollywood trainer and Hollywood Mom ERIN O’BRIEN, Prenatal Fitness Fix is a unique program that quickly and effectively conditions your growing body. Modified Pilates, kegels, sports conditioning, and true-blue body sculpting seamlessly blend together in Erin’s two workouts. You’ll get it all: fat-burning cardio, muscle toning, strength training, and tension-relieving stretches. The first workout—40 minutes long—is like an exercise class in the comfort of your own home. No special equipment needed, just clear some space in your living room. Erin’s a genius at keeping your mind focused, your body invigorated, and your spirits up. The second workout—20 minutes long—is for you and a partner. Erin and her husband, actor JAMES DENTON (Desperate Housewives, The Pretender), take you through a circuit-training partner series. It’s the perfect way to include others in your pregnancy journey! ERIN O’BRIEN has 10 years of experience as a pre/postnatal exercise specialist working in elite fitness clubs in both New York City and Los Angeles. She holds several certifications, including one in pre/postnatal training from the Esquerre Fitness Group.

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Denise Austin: Fit & Firm Pregnancy (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)Those who are somewhat new to working out and want to get some exercise to look and/or feel better during pregnancy will definitely benefit from this workout, which is easy to follow and do. You'll feel refreshed and stretched after doing it. Exercise is the best cure for aching bones and muscles during pregnancy! And as Denise will remind you at least 30 times, "You're doing something good for yourself AND your baby."
If you've been more active throughout your pregnancy, though, you should be warned that this workout is basically the equivalent of the warm-up you would do before a non-pregnancy workout. You do a lot of the step-touch type moves that you would get in a typical aerobics warm-up. Of course, there's only so much you can safely do when you're pregnant, so a lot of the moves are repetitive and can get boring. But in the end, the idea is to get your body moving, and it does accomplish that.
I didn't get this DVD until my 3rd trimester, and I enjoyed it. I felt like I got a good, basic, safe workout. But I don't think the cardio section would would have been enough of a challenge during my 1st and 2nd trimesters.

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Congratulations! You are beginning the most exciting and challenging chapter of your life: having a baby! But that doesn't mean you can't stay in shape. With Fit & Firm: Pregnancy, fitness icon (and the mother of two) Denise Austin delivers an energy-boosting program that focuses on everyday strength, "perfect pregnancy posture" and reshaping your after-baby body! Breathing and Core Awareness: Stimulate your core muscles and elevate your spirit during this 5-minute preparatory segment. Cardio Workout: Give your energy a boost with this low-impact, fun, 20-minute, heart-healthy workout adapted for all three trimesters. 1st - 2nd Trimester Toning: Rejuvenate and sculpt your body from head to toe with 20 minutes of prenatal-fitness fun! 3rd Trimester Toning: Soothe sore muscles and maintain core strength with this 20-minute, refreshing workout that helps prepare you for delivery! "Bonus" Post Bounce-Back Workout: Bounce back fast with this 10-minute, invigorating routine that re-educates the abs for a waist-slimming workout.

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