Editorial Review

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• With the authentic Pilates Method (developed decades ago by Joseph H. Pilates), you can reshape and tone your entire body to look longer and leaner by using these simple-yet-effective techniques
• Anyone can do Pilates, regardless of age or fitness level
• Pilates For Dummies offers step-by-step instruction for 18 popular Pilates mat exercises and makes working out at your own level easy to do
• Video incorporates floor techniques that are taught as part of every Pilates mat class to help you strengthen and lengthen your muscles, improve your posture, and tone and lighten you mid-section
• Increase your flexibility as you tone your muscles

Reviews (189)

GREAT WORKOUT!
I've seen the Pilates infomercials for a while now, but have been intimidated by the seemingly impossible movements. When I found this inexpensive "For Dummies" DVD, I decided to give it a try. WHAT A WORKOUT! I consider myself to be in moderately good shape, and this workout can definitely be felt! Within the first couple of days I IMMEDIATELY noticed a change in my posture, and a good burn in my abs, hips and thighs. I HIGHLY recommend this as both a great workout and a wonderful intro to Pilates.

Too Fast
I found it much too fast for me, the out of shape beginner. some of the moves I just could not do without hurting myself, such as the rollup from a supine position.Even with legs bentmy abs were not strong enough to bring me all the way up.

Difficult!
Am I the only one who found the basic workout difficult? The pace was too quick for me to get the right technique in the poses and even though I have done this workout several times now, my back almost always is very painful for at least 24 hours afterward. I have found that, apart from a few exercises, the intermediate workout is easier. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

"Remember what Joseph Pilates said," instructor Ana Caban says. "'Youwill feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20 sessions, and have a completely new body in 30 sessions.'" Pilates has become very popular and for good reason. By working the core muscles (the abdominal and back muscles in the center of your body) you improve strength and posture and developa lean, long line.Read more

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• Certified instructor Ana Caban helps you lengthen, strengthen and tone your muscles without joint stress
• A special 10 minute session introduces you to the form and principles of Pilates and id followed by an invigorating 20 minute workout

Reviews (226)

Great rehab workout
I took a two-year hiatus from rigorous workouts after seriously injuring both legs from knee down--shins, achilles, ankles (don't ask). This workout not only enhances flexibility the length of my legs and into my ankles without stressing the ankles like an elastic band Pilates workout would, but also effectively works the muscles in my thighs, buns and abs, where I need it. This workout is an all around safe and effective choice for a true beginner or someone in need of rehab, like me.
Not intimidating or condescending
How many times have you watched an exercise video hosted by a bouncy, perky blonde with a plastic smile making you feel like a fat, lazy slob? Or maybe it was an arrogant Hollywood trainer with that "fitter than thou" sneer... these instructors just don't seem like real people with real lives outside the gym, do they?
Excellent workout
My piano teacher first introduced me to Pilates and I do some kind of pilates workout almost every day now. I absolutely love to do pilates, unlike regular exercise. (I do NOT love to exercise. NO running, no weight lifting, no biking, ect.)
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Editorial Review

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Reviews (162)

perfect for beginners to intermediate
This is a great workout.I was a rank beginner when i started and i could manage the first workout right away.Doing it daily I built up strength to do the second workout, which was my first introduction to yoga.I alternated the two at first; later I began to doboth workouts together, a total of 40 minutes.After using this dvd for about 4 months I had dropped two sizes (of course also radically changing my diet).
Give me a 'real ' Pilates instructor,please
After working out from another Pilates instructor,I fould this one hard to take.
Awesome Video
I used this video along with short walks almost exclusively to lose weight and the pounds and inches melted away. I couldn't believe how well it toned my whole body, not just one area. After a year of doing it and finally looking like a swimsuit model, I starting using the morning excercise programs on alternating days and had phenominal results. I lost 25 lbs in all. ... Read more

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Reviews (10)

great tape if you like Pilates
I highly recommend this tape to anyone who wants to do pilates.Initialy I was skeptical because the first few minutes of warmup is very boring, but she soon moves on to more challenging exercises, especially a lot of variations of V-sits.Also, initially I was reluctant about the length of the video (~50 minutes), but since she moves from one move to the next, the time passed quickly and she doesn't waste time sitting around.
Extraordinary
I have little more to add that hasn't already been stated quite eloquently in prior reviews.This is a truly superb and challenging video.My wife and I have noticed exceptional toning and definition, as a result of this particular regimen.Our only hope is that Moira will come out with another similarly advanced version.If you're seeking relatively quick and superior results, then this video should certainly meet your expectations.

Great Results
I have had 3 kids in less than 5 years and really thought I would never have a tight, thin stomach without surgery.I have used this video alternating it with Windsor Pilates and mild cardio for my workouts.I saw results in 2 weeks.Now, I am normally a size 8 but can wear a 6 now. I didn't have much weight to lose but wanted to tone my midsection.This tape is great.Pilates is one of the best ways to tone your abs when combined with a sensible diet and some cardio.You will see the best results by alternating it everyday with something different.I like Taebo's Basic workout.Again, I have 3 young kids so I like a workout that is quick but effective! ... Read more

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Editorial Review

Another fun video from Read more

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Reviews (37)

impressive!
i borrowed this tape from someone and was impressed enough to order a copy for myself. this is a more beginner-friendly pilates-type workout. the sets are shorter than some of the other pilates tapes, the tape is filmed in a beautiful studio with live drummers. nice change from all the bad 80's style music in so many tapes. a good workout any time, but i prefer to do this one at night. the more variety in your abdominal workout, the better results you will get. this is a nice addition to my daily workout.

A good workout
I am a new mom and have a hard time getting off to the gym so I have invested in workout tapes.I have tried about four others and than recently I got this as a christmas gift and popped it in.I immediately liked that it moved fast. The point is, is that you don't do the same excercise 20 times and than move on - you do it a couple and than move on -BECAUSE IT WORKS SO WELL -IT WILL TONE YOU AND WORK OUT THAT AREA - instead of unneeded repetition. You get a workout everywhere.the next day I was the most sore I have ever been, and I thought the workout was easy.I have done the tape two more times - and I am excited beforehand! I DON'T HAVE TO NAG / MOTIVATE MYSELF TO DO IT. :) I highly recommend this to anyone - I have NEVER done pilates or ballet and this was a little hard, but easier each time you do it!

Great Tape!!!
I picked this up for a change of pace and was pleasantly surprised.You will definitely feel it not long after doing it.I have a lot of other yoga/pilates/stretching type tapes, but none have made me as sore as this.This one is a winner! ... Read more

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Reviews (39)

Pleased with Pilates
Denise Austin's Pilates for Every Body is an excellent workout video emphasizing the core muscles of the lower back and abdomine.Denise uses stretching, resistance bands, and Pilates exercises, focusing on the quality, not the quantity of repetitions.She encouragesmore from experienced exercises and suggests some alternatives for beginners.I especially like using the resistance bands.Yes, I pleased with Pilates!

NOT boring...
I am not a Pilates expert, or an expert of any kind of exercise, but I know what I like.I have many, many aerobics and Pilates videos, but this is the first and ONLY one that I do over and over.I agree that maybe it is not for beginners, but even as someone who started out with a very weak core, I found the exercises fantastic.I have done this video 1-2 times/week for about 4-5 weeks, now.I still can't believe it's not collecting dust like all my other videos.I understand that Denise's style is not for everybody, but I find that I start the workout with a 'ho-hum' attitude more often than I'd like to admit.By the end of the workout, I feel positive and strong.I don't need a workout to lull me right back to sleep....I need someone to change my attitude as well as my body, so Denise works for me!The exercises change often enough to keep me from getting bored.I really love this video.I can feel myself getting stronger, I work up a sweat, and get my heart pumping.I feel like I've DONE SOMETHING when I've finished!I highly recommend this for anybody who wants a total body workout.

Get STRONG Abs - for Seniors, too!
This is my favorite Denise Austin tape - just LOVE it!Today, I'm a very fit64-year old, thanks in part to "Pilates for Every Body." For years, I'd concentrated only on fitness walking, gardening, and moderate-level exercises; without strength training, my body was aging way too fast:Before hiking up my fitness levels with Pilates, weight lifting and Kundalini Yoga tapes, my abs and arms were weak, and my back and sciatic nerves, often injured.So care was required, too.
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Editorial Review

"Calorie burning cardio plus Pilates-based toning," promises this 40-minute Crunch program, which combines Pilates-influenced standing and mat exercises. In the cardio section, instructor Ellen Barrett uses Pilates terminology (e.g. "standing imprint") as she adapts Pilates moves to rather repetitious standing exercises--mostly squats and leg lift variations--which work the core muscles of the abdominals and back as well as legs, thighs, and buttocks. The moves are sometimes slow and rarely "travel," so your heart rate might not stay elevated, although your lower body and core muscles will get a good workout. The toning section consists of Pilates mat exercises which work abs, back, thighs, and buttocks. One exerciser demonstrates easier modifications. The background music is dominated by a lively drummer who keeps the workout upbeat andenthusiastic. Read more

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Reviews (110)

5 stars for Ellen, Zero stars for cameraman and idiotic drummer
I am a huge fan of Ellen Barrett's Crunch Pilates series.I have all her DVDs and use them regularly.This is the only one I have a gripe with.
pilates beginner
I had never done pilates before and this workout is easy to follow but challenging enough to feel it work.

Surprisingly good low-impact cardio workout
This is my second favorite cardio workout (after Self Slim and Sleek Fast). again, i am a big fan of Ellen. Great instructor, very down to earth and good energy. This workout really works your legs hard, and if you put alot of effort into it you will work up a sweat. It feels great combinig cardio and stretching and improving your posture while you do this routine. The ab section is very challenging for beginners like me. ... Read more

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Reviews (27)

Received order quickly
I received my order in about three days.I didn't expect to get such quick service.
My favorite!
I've been Netflixing exercise DVDs to decide which ones I want to actually buy, and I knew from the first time I watched this one that it was going to be one of the keepers.It's fun!Well, mostly -- the beginning is difficult (hmmm... how many squats/"plies" can I do in rapid succession before my thighs, hips, or knees give out on me?), but I still actually look forward to this routine.It seems to lean more toward the dance-type moves than just exercises, even more than the (admittedly few) other Pilates DVDs I've seen.Also, she doesn't make you do so many of any one given exercise that you get bored -- or she adds moves or changes the routine slightly, so you feel like you're doing a different exercise (which you kind of are).And the clincher, of course -- it's having an effect on my weight & muscle tone.The instructor is a pleasure -- very likable, and her movements are very graceful.I just wish she'd release some more DVDs!

A great 35-minute workout
I'm new to Pilates. I've watched the Winsor Pilates tapes but wanted cardio in my workout. Tracey Thompson's Pilates Workout for Dummies gives me that.I've been at it for a few weeks and am starting to see a difference in weight but I really FEEL a difference.It was hard work at first but I'm getting better at it.My only complaint would be that I could use a bit more instrucction on the right positioning for each movement but that might be hard to do without slowing down the solid but comfortable pace of the workout.For example, on one of the mat exercises, I realized just a couple days ago that I didn't have my legs quite right and studying her position better made a big difference.But the workout is smooth and consistent.I would really like her to put out another one!! ... Read more

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Editorial Review

In this excellent, intermediate Pilates workout, you add muscular power and endurance to the core stability you've developed. Skillful instructor Moira Stott-Merrithew starts with a review of basic principles, demonstrated in the warm-up, before taking us through a nonstop workout. Many of the moves are the essential exercises taught in Read more

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Reviews (18)

Great workout/Cheap videos
I actually own the basic, intermediate and advanced Stott Pilates videos. While I love the workout, I was highly disappointed that the tapes malfunctioned after a few months of use. Both the beginner and intermediate tapes I purchased wouldn't play - I had to open the case and manipulate the acetate to get the tapes going again. I thought this was odd since I still have tapes that I bought in the early 90s that work with no problem today. When I emailed the Merrithew Corporation - the Canadian company owned by Stott that makes the tapes - to complain, they promised to send me replacements, but never did. The sad part is that I also gave a Stott beginner tape to my mother as a gift and it malfunctioned as well after a few months.

Great, well-instructed workout!
If you are somewhat new to Pilates, I would suggest you start with Stott-Merrithew's Essential Matwork video.She takes a lot more time there to explain how to do the exercises.In this video, she builds on that slow, deliberate instruction, so the exercises go by much more quickly here, with little pausing.Also, in this video, she has us doing more-advanced versions of the "preps" we did in the Essential video.
Not the greatest
I have taken Callanetics in a studio (similar in origin to Pilates, but not as focused on the core), so I felt I was prepared to try an intermediate level DVD.
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Editorial Review

If you enjoyed Ana Caban's exceptional beginning-level video, Read more

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• In this more rigorous routine, Ana increases the duration and intensity of previously-learned exercises to give you a comprehensive workout for both your mind and body

Reviews (79)

Voiceovers are Fine Now
Before I purchased this DVD, I read the other reviews that said the production quality of this DVD was poor, especially the voiceovers.I took a chance and bought it anyway. Those reviews were written in 2001.The DVD that I bought in 2006 was fine, very clear and loud sound.I love this DVD, it's very close to my favorite instructor's class and is an excellent substitution for when I can't get to class.They may have re-released it and fixed the previous problems.

Fitness Seeker
While the content of the exercise program is good, the production quality is abysmal.The sound swithces from normal to very echoing, dim and "under-water" sounding every third sentence.The visuals flicker, and alternate from color to black and white.The filming is very unsteady, as if the cameraperson is just a beginner.I contacted the company and they sounded very unconcerned about these problems!Because of this, I am reluctant to purchase another Living Arts-Gaiam product.

Excellent follow up
This workout is an excellent follow-up to Ana Caban's first workout, Pilates for Beginners. The length of the workout and the intensity of the exercises was perfect. I really enjoy Ana's commentary during the workout and I think she is one of the better pilates instructors available on DVD. The range of motion covered and the explanations for them are very helpful and I developed a much better ability to perform exercises like 'Teasers' (one of the more difficult Pilates exercise) and many others. I also really love the Energy Boost workouts on this and the beginners DVD because if I have a busy day ahead of me, I will do the fifteen or twenty minute energy boost workout and be set for the day, even if I don't have time to do a whole long workout. ... Read more

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Editorial Review

Moira Stott-Merrithew has updated Read more

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Reviews (18)

This video does what it says it will do!
Essential Matwork really provides a good foundation for a correct understanding of Pilates. I had been doing Pilates for about 6 months and found that there were some muscles I was not working the right way. The exercises can seem simple if you aren't doing them correctly. So yes, it takes patience to learn the right way, but that makes this video an excellent place to get started! Once you master these basic skills, going on to another Stott video will keep you from getting bored.

Wonderful workout; wonderful instruction!
I'm a newcomer to Pilates, so I really appreciate the constant and very clear instruction Ms Stott-Merrithew gives throughout this tape.She explains why we do the exercises in the order we do (to alternate work on the abs and back and other muscles).She tells us how to breathe -- an important aspect of Pilates -- not just at the beginning, but throughout each exercise.Do you inhale rolling up or rolling back?Not to fear; Stott-Merrithew will remind you!She instructs exactly how to align your body throughout each exercise, which, if you have read anything about Pilates, you know is critically important to a successful practice.
very good and challenging for a beginner
I had done 2 Pilates classes at my gym (that were too difficult to do safely without basic visual instruction) and also tried the "22 minute matwork" Stott tape when I did this workout.I found it very instructional and safe, but quite challenging for me, which is the perfect beginner video.I am in fairly good shape, and workout 3-4 times a week, am flexible, and this is challenging enough for me to begin with.yes, there are 2 quick audio glitches(no big deal) and I am soooo sensitive to annoying voices and I found her very soothing and professional.I would recommend this to anyone and urge "workout" junkies to be patient and understand the value of learning specific and safe movement, since my knees are paying the price now from aerobics!iF THESE ARE NOT LEARNED CORRECTLY, THEY WILL NOT WORK! PILATES IS ALL ABOUT PRECISION! She tells you to do cardio 3 times a week besides her video, so this is not meant to replace a cardio workout.I echo that it is rushed through, but it is long, so I was glad to keep up the pace.I was sweating and felt beat up the next day(s), so even if it doesn't feel like much, you feel it later, believe me!!!I will be purchasing this video and then moving on to intermediate.The 22 min. matwork was just way too easy. ... Read more

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Editorial Review

If you think you know abdominal workouts, challenge yourself with this unusual video, based on yoga, classical dance, and the work of Joseph Pilates. "Strength and endurance, suppleness and flexibility," promises instructor Jennifer Kries. Every exercise starts from and focuses on the abdominals. Done lying on a mat, a 15-minute workout teaches you the basics of the exercises to come, demonstrating how to work your torso muscles in new ways, such as "roll-ups" and long leg circles. Then a 30-minute workout puts these exercises into a sequence and adds some more-advanced variations, such as sitting on your tailbone in a jackknife position--upper body and legs off the floor making a V-shape--and doing various movements from that position without losing your balance. This exercise technique gets the deep, postural abdominal muscles as well as those you're used to working. It also works the legs, hips, and buttocks, but the ab work is the best part. Kries gives clear, detailed instruction. She is so limber she could probably comb her hair with her toes, but don't be dismayed--you don't have to be that flexible to benefit from the workout. Read more

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Reviews (92)

Method to her madness
This is without a doubt...the best video I have ever bought!Jennifer Kries is a very good instructor.I sweat more doing this 45 minute tape, than ridding the stationary bike for an hour.Through my own experiance, you MUST regularly do this tape for at least 2 months before you will REALLY see results.I think I spent the first 2 months mastering the different moves.Then when I had done so...I could start concentrating on feeling the burn in my muscles.This tape WILL change the shape of your body...and you will see a difference, but you must stick with it.The Method Precision Sculpting video is also really good.I have been incorporating both tapes into my routine...and seeing the results I want.

An ok workout
I kind of like this workout.It is somewhat challenging, although I get bored with it quickly.I'm not particularly fond of Jennifer Kries' teaching methods either.I don't doubt that she is skilled in what she does, she's just very bland, as is the workout and the appearance of the set.This was the first pilates video I bought. I did it a couple of times, and then didn't do pilates again for almost a year.I would suggest starting with Ana Caban's beginners video if you are new to pilates.

I love this work out!!
This is a great video! I cant say enough good things. I just had a baby and was in a car accident while pregnant resulting in back injuries. I thought Pilates may not be for me because I was so out of shape and injured. Definatly not the case! Another person said there were no modifications to the moves and you had to be fairly fit to even try this work out. Not so!! Several times she says to go only as far as comfortable, you have to follow her directions- then you have a completly tailored work out. Read more

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Reviews (2)

Fabulous 'before, during and after' pregnancy workout.
I have experienced the effects of using this video before, during and after pregnancy. It is fabulous. Truly, it is a workout that can be used anytime. Perfect for all stages of pregnancy and it will get you back in shape after the baby and keep you there. I give it my highest recommendation.

The best video of it's type.
I own several Pilates videos like this - this is definately the best one I have seen so far.Easy to understand and follow.Great instruction - and is divided into 5 seperate workouts so does not get old.Also has by far the most professional look to it. Strongly recommend. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Fast-paced, intense Pilates routine
This 19-minute Pilates routine ups the intensity by moving more quickly than most.Instructor Mari Winsor starts with the traditional sequence of the hundred-the rollup-the rollover, moving briskly through the repetitions and with little pausing between the exercises. After rolling like a ball and single leg circles, Mari leads you right into the series of five, increasing the intensity by adding a second set of faster repetitions to each move.Other exercises included in this workout are leg kicks, back stretch, child's pose, the neck pull, the jackknife, swimming, several teaser variations, heel beats, and some of the side kick series. You'll end with a few additional side kick exercises performed on the knees (tough!) and finally the seal. I use this video frequently whenever I am looking for a quick, intense Pilates workout at an intermediate level. ... Read more

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Reviews (58)

Fabulous workout!!!
This is a MUST HAVE pilates DVD. The moves are awesome, and while you are doing it, you can feel the fantastic burns, and the stretches release the tension in your body so efficiently. The only thing that I can complain about is the breathing, I feel hard to keep up with it, the fast and forced inhales and exhales are so unnatural, I guess it takes a while to get use to. I especially like the lower body and stretch sections. As for abs, whenever I'm doing ONE HUNDRED or double leg/single leg stretch, I don't feel much around my abs, but very tense on my neck, I guess that's my weakness point. But overall, this DVD is well-structured, very well interpreted and easy to follow (only a few moves are advance for newbies like me).

Perfect for the busy mom
These 10 minute workout combos are great for any busy mom since you can do one, two or three depending on how much time you have and how tired you are!

5 Stars for Pilates
The instructor Lara Hudson motivates you through each 10 minute section that you can do all together for a total of 50 minutes or only do a couple at a time. I thought the execises were all unique and fun to do.
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Editorial Review

This Pilates workout's subtitle, "Pick Your Spot," sums up its flexibility; the three 10-minute segments each tone the abdomen, rear, and thighs using Pilates-based exercises. Crammed into each segment are up to 10 exercises. "Belly" features the 100, criss-cross, twist, and mermaid; "Butt" includes swimming, double leg kicks, and leg circles; and "Thighs" offers the frog, front kicks, and leg lifts. While each segment is too brief to challenge veteran exercisers, viewers are free to hit the pause button and add reps. Plus, a 10-minute bonus total-body Pilates workout proves more demanding than the individual segments. L.A. Crunch instructor Ellen Barrett does an excellent job of initiating newbies to the regulated breathing and core muscle control needed for the exactness of this exercise system. However, visual clarity is somewhat hampered by a crowded set of eight exercisers when Barrett and one other person demonstrating the modifications would have been enough. Read more

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Reviews (128)

"OK" - mostly for beginners
Overall I had mixed thoughts about this video, it wasn't great, but it wasn't horrible either.
I love this DVD
This is a great workout. I use it all the time with great results. There are modified moves for those who need to take it a little easier. Besides the pick your spot workouts there is also a total body workout that looks like it would be really good for someone who needs a little bit harder workout. Ellen is a great instructor, very personable and encouraging.

Effective for toning in a short amount of time
I have had this DVD for 3 years, and still come back to it often. I find that it helps strengthen my core (up and down the abs), the three short (10 minute) segments make the workout go by quickly, and Ellen has clear cues. She is direct, but encouraging in the way she leads the workout. This is not a DVD that by itself will have you shedding weight, but it definitely helps tighten the abs, buns and legs, and I also notice when my abs are in better shape that I have fewer issues with lower back pain. I would say it is intermediate, but beginners can modify it, and advanced can use it as a supplement to cardo and weight training. ... Read more

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