Amazon.com (ISBN 0312316259, Audio CD)

Whether you're recovering from back surgery or looking for a decent full-body workout, Pilates has something to offer--and this practical kit from well-known guru Brooke Siler pulls a complicated system together with finesse. Emphasizing equal stretching and strengthening of the muscles (especially those throughout the torso, referred to as "the powerhouse"), Pilates mat work is conveniently portable thanks to its total lack of fancy equipment. Combining a video with Pilates is asking for poor muscular alignment and a lot of mental distraction, so while the kit's components may seem a little old-fashioned, they're both effective and appropriate. Two CDs and 70 illustrated flash cards work together to supply visual and oral cues for each exercise; a simple book and exercise journal complete the package. With a portable player, you'll have private instruction in public gyms or hotels without expensive classes or tight schedules. The first disk provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals and progresses up the ladder. Many postures are possible for everyone, regardless of fitness level, and it's also a good backup for advanced students if an accident or illness forces you to start again from scratch. The second disk takes you through the intermediate exercises, some of which may be difficult (or impossible) at first but remain inspiring--Siler's gentle authority and creative metaphors make it easy to visualize a day when we'll all be as lean, strong and flexible as she is. --Jill Lightner