There’s a reason she’s the trainer to the stars. Tracy Anderson’s Mat Workout is a must for all mums wanting to get in shape.
Responsible for getting everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to Maggie Gyllenhaal and Kate Hudson back in to shape after pregnancy, Tracy Anderson is Hollywood’s worst kept fitness secret. With this is mind, I was a little apprehensive as to whether I would be able to keep up with the a program that is used by some of the world’s leading ladies, famed as much for their bodies as for their films. But in fact, I really enjoyed doing the DVD and truly believe that with a little dedication, it does work.
Tracy Anderson’s Method is unlike any fitness DVD I have come across before. The pace is slow and is based around a lot of repetitions and toning exercises. By ‘waking up’ your accessory muscles and ‘pulling in’ the larger ones, she has created a regime that will give you a much more feminine, slender shape without adding muscle bulk. It’s a look she describes as ‘The New York City Ballet’ body, all lean arms and slender feminine torsos, and who wouldn’t want that?
It’s split in to short sections, focusing on all the usual problem areas: arms, abs, legs, etc. The exercises are easy (even for the most uncoordinated of people like me) and are influenced by Tracy’s background in dance. I think it is these more natural movements that help to create a more feminine, subtle shape. Throughout the DVD she explains why she is doing each section and ultimately what it will achieve. Helpful tips along the way really put what you’re doing in to perspective, keeping you encouraged and focused.
Anderson suggests you do the workout five to six times per week to see your body change shape. Busy workloads, children, and life in general are probably going to get in the way of making that a reality, but I think even doing the DVD twice a week with some added cardio will see results. If you’re looking for a fitness DVD to get back in to shape after having a baby, this is a great one to start with. The exercises are easy, it’s just the repetition of doing them that is difficult and they are broken up in to short sections so if you don’t have time for each one, just pick the most important ones. Ease your way in and perhaps sit out a few of the movements first time round; once you start to build up muscle you can dedicate yourself to the whole class. Beware: if you do work your way through the whole DVD on the first try, you will be aching for the next couple of days. This might be something to consider, especially if you have a baby to pick up.