What To Look For
You want to find a Pilates workout that will fit into your busy schedule. The best DVD workouts often feature short, 10- or 15-minute segments you can do individually or combine with other segments for a longer workout. The segments sometimes target a specific area of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs. You can also buy a DVD that includes exercises to improve your balance, strength or flexibility. Stability balls tend to make Pilates exercises more intense, because the ball adds resistance. Pick a DVD that corresponds to your experience with stability balls and Pilates. While some include workouts designed for all levels, others focus only on beginners or those who have experience with the exercises.
Common Pitfalls
While stability balls can make your workout more effective, they can also be difficult to get used to at first, because they can roll away from you in the middle of the exercise. Many workouts provide modifications to help beginners adjust to the ball, but some do not, so check carefully before choosing. A few DVD workouts may also assume you have knowledge of or experience with Pilates and do not provide proper breathing cues or explain the benefits of the system.
Where To Buy
Large retailers, such as Sears or Target, sell Pilates DVD workouts, though you may have to order the DVDs online instead of purchasing them at the store. Amazon.com, and other online media outlets, also have a wide selection of Pilates stability ball DVDs. Stores dedicated to selling sports equipment, such as Modell's, also sell DVD workouts, though you may pay more from a specialized store than at a department store.
Cost
Generally, workout DVD's cost less than $20, as of 2010. DVDs that come with a stability ball cost a bit more, but may save you money over buying the two separately. You may also purchase combination packs that include a ball and multiple DVDs workouts, usually for less than $100.
Comparison Shopping
One DVD workout is "Pilates on the Ball," which is part of the "Ten Minute Solution" series. The DVD has five segments, each lasting about 10 minutes and is designed for people who have hectic lives. The DVD does not come with a ball. Stott Pilates has several stability ball DVDs, which target different areas. Some workouts focus on improving your balance while others are focused on strengthening your core. Stott also offers DVDs of increasing difficultly, so you can purchase a new workout as you improve.
Accessories
To effectively perform the exercises, you will need a stability ball. The size of the ball you need depends on how tall you are. If you are between 5 feet and 5 feet, 8 inches tall, a 55cm diameter ball should fit you. People taller than 5 feet 9 inches should buy a 65cm ball and people taller than 6 feet 2 inches should buy a 75cm ball. You may also need a yoga or Pilates mat to perform the exercises comfortably. If you have a soft carpeted floor, you may not need a mat.
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