Articles about the Fitness

I have never done pilates before and having read other reviews decided to purchase this dvd hoping for a good introduction to a pilates workout. And this is exactly what you'll get. If, like me, you're not a big fan of complicated dance routines done by a bunch of people in garish outfits whose 'ideal' bodies clearly have nothing to do with the exercise performed, you're gonna love this dvd. The exercises are shown in a slow and clear way by a friendly instructor - they are easy to follow even if you're doing it for the first time and effective from the first move. There are additional explanations or more/less advanced alternatives to a given exercise popping up when necessary but this is in no way distracting. The dvd is divided into several sections which makes it handy when you only have 15-20 minutes and want to do a short session at a time. You will not need anything else but a bit of space, bare feet and a mat (unless, like me, you don't mind the carpet). I have found this workout really enjoyable and hopefully so will you.

Pump It Up The Ultimate Workout does exactly what it says on the box.
Fantastic choreography to awesome club tracks, and Deanne Berry as the instructor has trained as a professional fitness instructor - and you can tell. Her moves are simple to follow - I only missed a few beats on the very first go - and she always encourages you to keep going and "go with your options"; both higher and lower intensity workouts are clearly demonstrated either side of Deanne.

The Ultimate Workout has 5 sections and runs for about an hour and a quarter in total. Each of the main middle sections are 15 minutes each; ideal if you want just a quick workout to fit around your schedule. The first section is a warm-up, and the next 3 are where you will burn your calories! Aerobics first, then dance, then beatbox. The beatbox section I cannot praise enough, it's fabulous for getting rid of stress,as well as toning and losing inches. The aerobics section is very easy to follow and will really make you sweat, and once you master the moves in the dance section you won't stop, you'll be doing crazy legs at every opportunity!All 3 middle sections together make for 45 minutes of exercise that will raise your heart-rate, very beneficial. There is then a toning section (although called 'Below the Belt' is is actually excellent for thighs, bums, arms and abs) and then a very relaxing cool-down, including all important stretches so you don't ache too much the next day.

Basically - if you're looking for a fitness DVD to do in your own home, look no further, you've found it.

I am a beginner to Pilates and because of a lower back/hip problem, I had to ease off yoga and find an alternative and this has certainly worked for me. I've been practising this dvd for 2 months now and have noticed a marked difference in my torso - it is toned and stronger. The pace is slow but effective. I like the way you can work at Darcey's pace and never break out in a sweat! The music is calming and really quietens the mind. Having the exercises in sections is a good idea as you can focus on areas you want to if you're pushed for time. The style is not gimmicky and I like Darcey's style and instruction.

I love it. I can see the results already and I have only been doing it for 2 weeks. A very goog work out for beginners. I recomend it.

After watching Erin and Karen on Strictly come Dancing I instantly wanted to buy this workout dvd. After using it a couple of times I really loved it. The steps can be difficult, so you will need to do it a couple of times each week to make sure you improve. Apart from that I thought it was good value for money, and if you want to feel a burn in your legs and arms after using it, then this is the one for you.

I was bought this DVD as I had a very bad back. I started using the first program and eventually worked my way up to being able to do all the programs. I lost weight and gained loads of core strength. It may not be true pilates (so I read) but it has done wonders for me and my back. I now use it to maintain my strength and supplement this with kickboxing (another 10 minute solutions) - something I never would have been able to achive before.

this is by far the best workout dvd i have ever bought. in just 2 weeks i have toned up have more energy and feel loads better. the box set is good value for money and allows a change between workout types. i would recommend this to anyone who wants to change their shape particulary after having children. i have found it fun and encouraging.

This is a great dvd, I love it, It is great for all, allthough some of the moves are a little bit tricky to start after a couple of times you get the hang of it and its great fun!

I bought this DVD as soon as it came out a year ago and have been using regularly in rotation with my other fitness DVDs. I think the routine is great and excercises you all round and I like that you can select different sections depending on the time you have and to keep you interested.

Great. But and I mean a big BUT, Davina's constant chatter, especially in the important cool down is SO IRRITATING. Funny to watch once yes, but you are supposed to use this DVD 3 times a week or so and you can imagine the gurning faces and interruptions about Madonna's biceps or whatever get a bit tired.

Hopefully they will take this into consideration on her next DVD as it reallt is one of the best fitness DVDs out there!