How long are the workouts and why?
Each DVD has a short warm up followed by a 24 minute workout in the Beginner level, a 38 minute workout in the Intermediate level and a 51 minute workout in the advanced level. So not only does the degree of difficulty increase with each level but the workouts get longer.
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What is Cardio Flow?
Cardio Flow is an efficient, faster paced version of the workout. It is meant to be done only after you have mastered the main workout. All the pauses and longer explainations are removed so that you can flow from 1 movement into the next, just as Joseph Pilates preferred his work to be done.
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How often should I do More than Mat?
You should do this program 3-5 days a week.
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What are the Pilates machines?
The Reformer, the Cadillac and the Chair are 3 main pieces of equipment that Joseph Pilates invented. They use a system of springs and pulleys to help support your body and also to provide resistance.
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How is it different from traditional mat?
Traditional Mat uses a group of about 34 exercises specifically designed for the floor/mat to strengthen your core, stretch your body and fortify your back. More than Mat takes the exercises that normally are assisted by the equipment and requires you to do it on your own. You may find More than Mat to be a more challenging workout. There are deeper stretches, more intense ab work and harder arm and shoulder exercises in More than Mat.
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Do I need a machine?
No. Everything has been modified so all you need is a comfortable mat or well cushioned rug to workout on.
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How will this change my body differently than mat?
Since it is a more intense workout, you may see results faster. The side abdominal muscles/obliques and the shoulders and arms get a more challenging workout in More than Mat.
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Do I still need an instructor for machine work when I go to a studio that has them?
Having private sessions is always optimal. You should not consider this workout a replacement for a private session with a certified instructor on the equipment. Never gone on the equipment alone, unless you are certified or have had years of training on the Pilates machines and have been told by your instructor that you are ready. These DVDs give you a flavor of the equipment exercises but knowing how to use the machines takes years of training.
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How do I know which level is right for me?
Everyone should consider starting at the Beginner level. This is a workout unlike any other you may have done before. This is a building block program. Once you have mastered the beginner level, go to the Intermediate level where some exercises are repeated but the way there are executed becomes more difficult. Intermediate level machine exercises are also introduced. Work your way up and get strong enough to go to the advanced level. This is a very challenging level.
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Why are there so few repetitions?
Pilates is an effiecient program that requires between 5-8 repetitions. You should do each repetition so deeply and with such good form that you won't be able to do many more.
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