Following the comprehensive style of 2000's bestselling Official Body Control Pilates Manual (which has sold 150,000 copies in the UK alone), this dynamic programme for the intermediate and advanced Pilates devotee heralds a return to Joseph Pilates' classical matwork (which was originally devised for fitter-than-average people, eg. dancers and athletes). The 34 exercises are physically demanding but presented as ever in layman's language, with watchpoints, warnings and detailed advice on the timing of the breath, so crucial to the core stability that Pilates is famed for building. Preparation exercises ensure that you are ready to tackle the full action.

The exercises culminate in fluent workout programmes to maintain and challenge your level of fitness.