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I have presented the exercises in my books starting with an extremely basic level with illustrations of each modification. The modifications slowly become harder over the series of books until they reach the advanced level. You could of course download each book and move through the levels quicker if you feel you are slightly more advanced. However, I cannot stress enough how much you should learn and understand the basics before you move on to the harder levels.

Absolute Beginner Book 1 assumes that you have no prior knowledge of Pilates. It includes chapters on spinal alignment, the principles of Pilates, the breathing technique, posture and muscle control. Book 1 also includes an extremely basic level of each of the first few exercises, with full explanations and illustrations of each modification. The modifications slowly progress over the series of books until they reach the original advanced level.

So, even if you are very unfit to start with, if you follow the instructions in the books, you will slowly build up the strength needed to be able to achieve the more challenging version of the exercises originally written by Mr. Pilates. You will be able to go over each exercise as many times as you need to, as once you have downloaded the books and printed them, they are yours.

If you are working on your own you will not feel pressured into keeping up with anyone else, and will not feel stupid if you do not understand something, or if you do it wrong and have to start over. You will find that you learn more, as you are able to concentrate with no distractions. You can therefore progress at your own pace and feel a sense of achievement as you improve.

I would recommend that you practice with a friend so that you can help each other to get into the correct positions. If you prefer to work by yourself, try and find a full length mirror and place it on the floor in front of you so you can check your own alignment.

You may find that some of the original exercises will never be right for you. Because you will have learned an easier or alternative version before you reach that stage, you will always be able to replace any of the exercises with a version you are comfortable with, and that suits your body type, fitness and flexibility level.