First of all, let me be honest -- I am not a Pilates beginner. I'm not a pro or anything, but I've done my fair share of classes. And so, to help me review this DVD, I brought in my friend Blair, who is a new mom and also new to Pilates.

Element: Pilates Weight Loss for Beginners is unlike most Pilates DVDs in a few ways. For one thing, it's very low-key. Filmed in a gorgeous outdoor setting with flowers and the ocean in the background, it focuses heavily on breathing and proper stretching. Something else that struck me was the fact that the instructor does speak as she does the moves -- the instructions are given via a voice-over, and truthfully, I found that really helpful. The instructions were detailed, and I swear she was watching me, because every time she reminded me to tuck my pelvis or release my shoulders, that was exactly what I needed to do, and Blair had the same reaction.

One thing I think I should point out, though, is that I don't find this workout to be any more conducive to weight loss than any other workout of similar difficulty. You can't do a Pilates DVD, eat pizza and cake, and then expect to drop pounds. But I assume you already knew that, so let's get into the review!

Level of Difficulty
For the most part, it truly was a beginner workout, although some of the moves will be very challenging for someone who hasn't done much core work before. A couple of moves left my midsection trembling!

Next Day Soreness
I didn't experience any soreness, but Blair had a few tender areas. We both definitely felt like we'd done some serious stretching, though.

Who's It For?
Whether you've never done Pilates or you just aren't terribly familiar with it, this would be a good fit. It's relaxing but still challenging. It's not a workout that will leave you soaked with sweat and shaking, but even those with some Pilates experience will get a workout from the 51-minute video.

Likes
The workout was both relaxing and challenging, which is a really pleasant mix. It's well-cued to the point that I was able to do some of the moves without even glancing at the screen -- especially important for someone new to Pilates. Also, it's divided into cardio (which is really a lot of stretching, bending and lunging from a standing position) and mat work, so you can opt to do one or the other or both depending on your time and fitness level.

Dislikes
Although it's a beginner workout, some of the moves were definitely more advanced, and not all of them offered easier modifications. And, if they did, sometimes the modification wasn't explained until we were nearly done with the move. I was able to give Blair a few pointers to make the moves work for her, but I don't imagine most people will be doing the video with someone who can help them properly modify.

Bottom Line
It might not provide enough of a challenge for someone who hits a Pilates class weekly, but that's why it's a beginner's DVD. And it will definitely provide a good workout for a beginner. While a few moves might be a bit too challenging for some at first, that just provides a goal, right? I'm a fan, and I'll happily do it.