FitSugar

Move It at Home: Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout by Gaiam

FitSugar — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 10:15:00 PDT

For those times when you can't make it to class a DVD at home is better than nothing at all. While nothing can really replace the touch of a live teacher, the Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout by Gaiam is a pretty good substitute.

As you can surely tell by the name, this DVD is not meant for the beginner. This is a solidly intermediate workout that builds on the material taught in the Pilates Beginning DVD. Ana Caban teaches the class and she provides clear instructions and cues throughout the exercise. Modifications are shown by another "exerciser" although not as with much frequency as the beginning level DVD.

These intermediate variations are more intense and the pace a bit more challenging. Geared to the intermediate level student the exercises flow into one another and are not bogged down with a lot of instruction (another reason why this is not a good DVD for beginners). The workout runs about 40 minutes, with a 13 minute bonus Energy Boost Workout which is short but intense and targets the abs in a great way. The scenery alone will energize you - it is filmed on location at a tropical beach.

Buy the DVD for $15 from Amazon.

Gaiam Covered Resistance Cord Kit With DVD

Anna Monette Roberts — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 03:06:43 PST

I love my Gaiam BalanceBall, but I've been on the search for a simple, at home way to do resistance training, especially since the wet, wintery mornings can impede my trips to the gym. The Gaiam Covered Resistance Cord Kit ($15) is an affordable and compact way to strength train in a small, indoor space.

See our rating.

6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First Yoga Mat

Jenny Sugar — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:57:25 PDT

When I started practicing yoga over 10 years ago, I couldn't wait to own my first yoga mat. I impulsively bought a pretty purple one, based on color alone. Not the best move, as it began disintegrating after a few weeks. What a waste of $35. Like any fitness gear, it pays to do a little research and to know some tips from well-seasoned yogis. Here are things I wish I knew before buying my first yoga mat.

Not All Mats Are Created Equal
Just as there are many types of yoga, there are even more varieties of yoga mats. Some are lightweight for traveling, some are eco-friendly, and some are designed for classes where you don't sweat much. Choose a mat based on the type of yoga you're doing and the amount you perspire. Avoid mats made for other types of exercise like physical therapy or Pilates, as they can be too squishy or slippery.

If You Want It to Last, Spend the Dough
There are plenty of mats that costs $20 or less, but you get what you pay for in the yoga mat world. Typically found at huge stores like Target or Walmart, less-expensive mats not only wear down after a few months, but they're typically made with chemically-smelling plastics like PVC, which aren't good for the Earth or your body. Pricier mats like the Manduka Black Mat cost ~~a small fortune~~ over $90, but you're paying for a durable mat made to last a lifetime (or two). In the long run, you actually save money.

Keep reading for more tips on buying your first yoga mat.