Quote Originally Posted by emily_in_nc View Post
Oakleaf, what DVD would you recommend for a beginner? I'd like to get one to complement the once-a-week class I'm taking.
In the Stott Pilates line, probably "The Secret to Flat Abs" or (a bit more advanced) "Firm & Fit." What I really like about the Stott Pilates DVDs is the warmup section that reinforces the basic principles every workout. What I don't like about them is that they move pretty fast with a lot of the movements. Someone who doesn't have pretty phenomenal control is going to wind up flailing their pelvis quite a bit if they try to keep up with the instructors' pace on some of the exercises (leg circles, both the single leg circles and the side kick leg circles, are the ones that stand out in my mind). My unqualified self would say to do them at your own pace, pause the DVD or just do fewer reps, do them at whatever pace lets you keep the connection between your ribcage, spine and pelvis, and work up to doing them at the DVD's pace.

I also like the Gaiam/Living Arts DVD. That one goes straight into The Hundred without any other warmup, so just be advised if you prefer more of a warmup.

Urlea, yeah, definitely tell your instructor about your headaches. Make sure you're not jamming your chin into your chest, just elongating the back of your neck. A trick that helps me relax my neck - and I have no idea why - is to touch the tip of my tongue to the roof of my mouth while doing the five abdominal series.