Callanetics

But, I wanted to warn viewers who may think that because this tape is not aerobic in nature, that the movements are easy. Don't be deceived...you will feel sore after the workouts, esp. if you are new to this type of exercise. With that said, I recommend the tapes highly because the workout is effective and challenging. Both of these qualities will keep the viewer motivated and excited about the workout.


astonishing!   March 30, 2005
rsw155 (USA)
47 out of 47 found this review helpful

Before ordering this video, I did my research to find excellent reviews and high ratings for Callanetics but I never really found before/after photos, which are usually a big inspiration for me. I wanted to know how it worked, how it felt, did you look different after one hour? So, for the sake of everyone else out there like me, I had to write regarding the questions that weighed on my mind. I found repetitive statements everywhere and I wanted to add information that I was curious about but could not find. So here goes:

THE VIDEO ITSELF
The Callanetics video itself is dated. 1986 I do believe is the original publishing date. There is no fancy stage production, no fancy clothes and extremely low key, soft, meditative music. I am not thrown off by this and as long as I enjoy something, it does not matter to me. I have always done Pilates and instead of giving me energy afterwards, I was usually so relaxed I would go straight to bed. I can tell that this video will do the same for me. I take time for myself and let myself relax... as this is also highly recommended by the instructor herself, Callan Pickney.

THE INSTRUCTOR
Callan Pickney is very patient, demonstrative and informative. She does not begin an exercise without thorough explanation and is constantly giving advice as to how to perform better or what exactly to avoid. Her voice is very soft and soothing. There are no harsh tones or words from her, only encouragement.

THE EXERCISES
The exercises are not hard, just a little time consuming. Concentration is a must as the most movement required from Callanetics is a little stretching and only an inch or less movement in every pose! Hard to believe, right? You will feel it. If you enjoy stretching and relaxing, this video is a MUST for your collection. I have done Pilates for years and the feeling I receive from Callanetics is so much more amazing. If you have had some kind of success with flexibility exercise (pilates, yoga, tai chi, etc) you will very much appreciate the flexibility you already possess!

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Callan recommends following this video three times a week. (Day after day callenetic activity could tire your muscles..they need their rest to!) She claims you will have a tighter body at the end of ten hours of Callanetics (ten hours is following the video ten times). I did not see a difference after one hour (I have heard you will see it in two hours) but I could DEFINITELY feel it and I am anxiously awaiting the results.

MY SITUATION (if you really care)
I have never really had a weight problem, but during college I found a few extra pounds and (YIKES!) the beginning of cellulite. I can live without both--and would pay GOOD money to live without both! I watch my diet very carefully and do not exercise with heavy weights. I have always done Pilates, even before the craze hit and I had a nice little taut and toned body. Callanetics is often recommend instead of Pilates for a long and lean look.

THE BOTTOM LINE
Callanetics is for every age and every body type because when you begin you start at YOUR OWN PACE! Bend your knees if necessary, do ten if that is all you can do, stretch as far as you can without hurting yourself. Callan makes you feel really comfortable and not inadequate like other workout videos have a tendency to do. Do not push yourself and in the end you will be able to do more than you have ever expected out of yourself.

Good Luck! :)




It works! And you don't sweat!   November 30, 1999
Kati Holmes (Atlanta, GA)
46 out of 48 found this review helpful

I am a Callanetics teacher and this tape most closely mirrors a "standard" 1-hour class. I have personally had the same great results doing Callanetics exercises as all the people writing these reviews. My students over the last 5 years have universally had the same type of success. Callanetics is the "quiet exercise;" it's very relaxing yet your body is working very hard. And the results prove it!


For fast, effective results, Callanetics works!!!!!!!!!!!!!!   October 24, 1999
36 out of 36 found this review helpful

I have always hated any form of exercise apart from walking. I was also advised by a Chiropractor to try these exercises (albeit, 10 years ago!!). I have been doing them now for approximately 4 weeks and have already lost 4 cms on my bust (they firmed up), 4 cms on my waist, and 2 cms on my hips (they are always the last to firm up on me). I am so impressed with this programme I have recommended it to many other people. I have more energy for all sorts of things, feel happier about myself in general and have a better attitude about life. Thanks Callan for sharing your valuable skills with the World. My 4 year old son even enjoys watching and mimicing the exercises with me!!