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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:13:15 GMT
AM/PM Yoga for Beginners
Jane Fonda
Year Released: 2012
I am old enough to remember doing Jane Fonda exercise videos in gym class back in the mid-80s. Although I admit that I didn't love her workouts back then, my exposure to her routines was probably instrumental in my development of a lifelong exercise video to habit.
Flash forward to present...I am now an experienced regular exerciser and a yoga instructor. I have not used a Jane Fonda video in years (and have never owned one before), but when I saw this DVD at a used book sale, I was unexpectedly intrigued. I liked the idea of short yoga segments for morning or evening; the "beginners" label didn't bother me, as sometimes I like a simple gentle yoga routine just to relax.
The Main Menu of this DVD reads as follows (with the sub-menus in parentheses):
*Workouts (AM Abs & Back - AM Energy - AM Strength - PM Mobility - PM Relaxation)
*Customize Your Workout
*Extras (Balance Bonus - Credits - More from Jane Fonda)
*Subtitles
The customize is an excellent feature! You can program to play 1-5 routines in any order you would like. Jane herself leads all of the routines accompanied by background exercisers. They are in an indoor studio with pink (!) walls, and they use large round mats. When you select a workout, options come up to do the program with Jane's instruction or with music only; the music is generally unobtrusive. I have described each routine below along with providing length information.
AM ABS & BACK (15:17)
Jane is with two women in the background here, and they start on the floor. Jane instructs a cough to feel the abs muscles and then moves into pelvic tilts. This is a followed by leg lowers and a move somewhat like the Pilates 100, pulsing one arm. Next is pelvic lifts and then a more challenging 1-leg bridge. The final lying move is side leg lowers. Jane then moves to hands and knees for a modified plank and child's pose, and she finishes back on all fours for a brief version of bird-dog (which she calls "pointer dog").
AM ENERGY (13:02)
For this all-standing routine, Jane is accompanied by three background exercisers, on of whom (Barbara) shows some modifications. Jane starts with several minutes of breathing, including introducing the yoga ujjayi breath and then moving into sun breaths. She then performs a gentle, modified flow of standing yoga postures: warrior 1, warrior 2, side angle pose, and reverse warrior. Jane finishes by stretching the shoulders with eagle arms and a couple of other different shoulder/neck stretches.
AM STRENGTH (11:59)
Here Jane and her four background exercisers incorporate light dumbbells into the routine. The dumbbells are mainly used for upper body work while holding yoga poses such as chair, standing crescent, horse pose, and warrior 2.
PM MOBILITY (12:07)
In this routine, Jane and her two background exercisers use an armless chair. Jane incorporates flowing moves for the joints. She starts standing with alternate heel lifts and then moves into a horse stance with arm flows. They place their hands on their chairs for a flow from modified dog to modified plank. Coming to seated on the chair, Jane moves through a modified cat/cow, seated twist, and finally reverse plank with hands on the chair.
PM RELAXATION (14:35)
Jane does not participate in this final practice: she instructs from seated in a chair while her two background exercisers perform the routine on the floor. They started seated for a simple seated twist and the move through bound angle and turtle forward folds. Coming to lying, Jane leads them through windshield wipers for the legs, a reclined twist, a single leg stretch, figure 4, and reclined bound angle. The practice finishes with a 2-minute relaxation guided by Jane; she drops her voice to an odd whisper at the very end.
BALANCE BONUS (4:42)
For this short sequence, Jane and her background exercisers perform balance poses with the aid of a chair. They start simply shifting the feel side to side and then move into knee lifts and tree pose. Jane repeatedly states that she does not have good balance, although it's difficult to know if this is authentic.
Overall, I thought Jane did a good job with the instruction. She is clearly comfortable in front of the camera, although she did seem a bit overly scripted to me. However, she provided good information, including offering tips on form and encouraging practice at one's own level. These gentle routines were easy for me and would likely be accessible to most, even those who have never done yoga before. Those with strength limitations might be challenged by some of the moves, including the 1-leg bridge (Abs & Back), the held standing postures with weights (Strength), and some of the plank work (Mobility). Personally, my favorite practices were Abs & Back, which provided a nice little core wake-up, and Mobility, which definitely would be a relaxing evening stretch for me. Depending on your level and experience, these routines might work well for you, too.
Instructor Comments:
As noted, I found Jane to be a bit scripted, but overall her instruction was fine.
Beth C (aka toaster)
06/02/2019
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:14:53 GMT
American Power Yoga Beginner Stretch
Kurt Johnsen
I’m convinced Kurt Johnsen is really Bryan Kest in disguise. Pretty much everything he says is just exactly what you would hear from Bryan. Which is okay – I like Bryan. This is billed as a beginning power yoga workout, and I would agree that it is beginning for power yoga (but intermediate for Hatha yoga in general). This one is wonderful for when I feel the need for some yoga strength work, but don’t feel like going all out. Good production, low-key new-agey music, and a pleasant workout. Grade A.
Annie S.
09/12/2004
I agree with another VF reader who once said that when you see Johnny G teach, you understand how a single personality can drive an entire fitness fad! He's one of a kind.
I recently bought a trainer for my road bike and thoughth I'd give spinning a whirl. This video was actually my first experience with spinning--probably not the best place to start, but I'm a total convert. I won't repeat Dawn's great description, but will add my own thoughts.
Besides Johnny G's great imagery and sincere encouragement, I was surprised to find how much I enjoyed being able to do portions of the workout with my eyes closed. That's not something you can try while running or stepping, that's for sure! It was relaxing and energizing all at once.
After I finish this video I have this incredible sense of accomplishment, and I know I've had a productive workout. I suspect this is due in part to the workout's intensity, in part to Johnny G's coaching.
I've been told that spinning is difficult to do on a "regular" stationary bike, so unless you have either a bike+trainer or a spinning bike, you might consider whether you can really "stand up" on your stationary bike before you buy the video.
This is billed as a beginner video, but I would not recommend it for beginners of yoga, only those who have a base of practice and are interested in trying out a vinyasa or power style workout. The instructors at this studio trained with Bryan Kest, and you can hear some Kestisms in Kurt's patter, but without the curmodgeonliness.
Kurt also incorporates some moves or poses from different traditions of martial arts and even "good old american rehab", as he calls it (it's a good move too). This is a great variety of different postures linked by vinyasas, with a lot of standing work, then floor work. I suppose I would rate it alongside Kest's Vol 1 or 2 for difficulty, also Baptiste's Soul of Strength--it will definitely get the sweat beads a poppin'.
Instructor Comments:
Kurt has a sweet demeanor, very friendly. He uses English descriptions for each asana, making them very approachable to the novice.
Kim R
10/22/2003
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:40:24 GMT
Ancient Yoga, New You living well yoga therapy
Ginger Garner
Year Released: 2005
Setting:
The Seated Pose & Pranayama chapter is done on a beach but all other chapters are done in a studio.
Music:
Instrumental with a relaxing beat.
Equipment needed:
Mat, blanket, blocks, strap and bolsters are used throughout.
Chapters:
1. Play all
2. Purpose & Introduction
3. Seated Pose & Pranayama
4. Modified Sun Salutations
5. Shoulder Openers
6. Standing Postures
7. Seated Postures
8. Prone Postures
9. Finishing Sequence
10. Relaxation Corpse
Ginger recommends doing the entire sequence (chapters 3-10) once per week. Running time is 1 hr 16 minutes and will accommodate all levels.
This practice is essential for those that have chronic pain. All poses are shown modified and with very clear instruction. Ginger is a physical therapist as well as a yoga instructor and she'll explain the pose and how to effectively perform it to minimize pain and promote healing.
Chapter 3:
Starting in seated cross legged position, sitting on a block/bolster, you'll do deep breathing and stretches to prepare you for the sun salutations.
Chapter 4:
Modified sun salutes begin on hands and knees. Ginger uses two blocks under her hands and begins with a cat/cow sequence. Slow & deliberate with detailed instructions, she'll take you through the modified routine (with and without using blocks)
Chapter 5:
A strap & two blocks are used during the shoulder openers. Wonderful stretches will really open and expand this area.
Chapter 6:
Warrior 1 & 2, side angle and tree are shown. Tips for alignment and knee placement help to ensure less discomfort in the standing poses.
Chapter 7:
Blankets/bolsters are used to raise you up slightly and a strap is used to deepen and lengthen the movements of the seated poses in this sequence.
Chapter 8:
A strap is used here as well. Stretches for finishing your practice are shown.
Chapter 9:
With a strap & lying on your back, you'll perform some great hamstring stretches and then finish with bridge. Ginger also does a few twists to strengthen the spine.
Chapter 10:
You'll conclude the practice in corpse pose utilizing props to make you comfortable.
Instructor Comments:
Denise
11/30/-0001
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:41:58 GMT
Arcs & Angles
June Kahn
I’m not really sure what the "Arcs & Angles" is all about. This is a fairly traditional yoga workout. June doesn’t talk about arcs/angles during the workout at all. This 1-hour, 10-minute workout includes a variety of yoga poses done very slowly. It starts off very easy but gets more challenging as it goes along, although not very difficult for someone who has done yoga for awhile. I think it is good for beginner and intermediate yoga students. I would classify this as more soothing than strengthening, but there is some strength work, too. I think I would have liked this if June had speeded it up a little; it just moved too slow. However, there were some unusual poses that I really liked and considered keeping it because of that. In the end, though, I just have too many videos, and I can’t see keeping this one since I’m just lukewarm about it. One more thing I should mention, the picture is grainy. It’s one of the Sara’s City older productions, and not the greatest quality.
Annie S.
01/06/2004
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:51:07 GMT
Back Care Yoga
Rodney Yee
Year Released: 2002
Excellent yoga instructor Rodney Yee offers this 3-part workout focused on strengthening back muscles to maintain a healthy back. He utilizes props (blanket, bolster, chair, brick, strap) to make the poses more gentle and accessible to those at all levels of fitness (although absolute beginners should stick to his previous video, Back Care Yoga for Beginners).
The first 16-minute section concentrates on simple stretches to warm up your back muscles. Poses are done either while lying on the floor or in a seated position, and Rodney uses a blanket to increase range of motion. The second workout is a bit longer (around 18 minutes) and places greater emphasis on strength moves. It begins with simple backbends (eg, cat pose) and moves on to standing poses modified by use of a chair; it ends with a series of lying stretches. In the final workout, Rodney uses a wider variety of props, including TWO chairs and both the blanket AND the bolster. This is a slow-moving, approximately 16-minute practice which focuses on relaxation through practicing a small number of poses for a longer period of time.
At times, Rodney's reliance on props is a bit distracting, particularly while you are trying to relax during the final section. However, he always allows ample time to relocate the props inbetween poses, and his use of the props is definitely beneficial at some points, such as during the second practice. Rodney's manner is extremely calm and relaxing, and his voiceover is always perfectly in sync with his on-screen performance. One minor criticism is that he doesn't offer mirrored instruction, but this is easily ignored given his otherwise excellent cuing. Overall, this is a very good workout by a master yoga instructor.
Instructor Comments:
Rodney Yee is one of my favorite yoga instructors; he is gentle, encouraging, and provides excellent cuing.
Beth C (aka toaster)
12/15/2003
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:51:57 GMT
Back Care Yoga for Beginners
Rodney Yee
Year Released: 1998
I can rarely pass up any video for $6.99, and I'm even happier when it's a great workout. This one is just that. I don't have back problems (knock on wood), but I still enjoy this video. It really is good for anyone who wants some really good stretches for the lower back, hamstrings and hips. You will need some props for this video; at the very least, a stool or chair (I use a 17" step pushed against a wall for stability). Rodney also uses a strap and a yoga block. If you are very flexible, you probably won't need the block but the strap (or a tie, belt or dynaband) will do quite nicely. I do agree with the other reviewers that the upward dog against the stool is a little awkward, but if you don't like this variation of the pose you could modify it. IMHO, this is an excellent video to do on its own, or following a cardio workout. One of my "best video value" purchases of 1999!
Instructor Comments:
Rodney Yee has the perfect voice to narrate a yoga video--it's very soothing and relaxing. He really attempts to help the exerciser integrate the mind and the body, and help use the breath to release tension. He does assume that you are aware of proper form for many of the poses, so I do suggest at the very least watching his videos before attempting them.
Kristin Aziz
02/05/2000
I love this tape! I had previously bought 2 other yoga videos, one was the original Yoga Journal's "Yoga For beginners" which was very good, but very long, and the other was Jane Fonda's Yoga but it was too repetive, boring and was once again, too long. On both tapes there were poses I simply couldn't do, even with modifications. This video is 30 minutes long, though before the workout begins Rodney Yee briefly explains the importance of a healthy spine. I am a beginner with back and neck problems and I was looking for some gentle back exercises to cool me down after my regular workouts. I found a great video for me. This may be too easy for advanced exercisers who have already been doing yoga for years, but is a great relaxation video for anyone who just needs to slow down, as well as for beginners who suffer from mild back pain. The video has 3 different parts: Hip opening/Standing postures with a chair, abdominal and back strengthening poses on the floor, and a guided relaxation. It starts out with a beautiful beach as a setting with just Rodney, a chair, a mat and a yoga strap (though you could use a towel or a belt). Rodney takes us through the poses sitting in a chair first, stretching up, then over forward. Make sure you are in a chair that is short enough so you can put your feet flat on the floor, its uncomfortable to be on your tiptoes and probably isnt good form (though he doesn't make any suggestions in regard to the chair.) I use my Firm 14" step box instead of a chair now. Next he does postures standing facing the chair, using it has a prop. The chair modifies poses that I've seen in the more advanced tapes that would normally be difficult for someone who is not very flexible (like me). I did have a problem doing upward facing dog. My chair wouldn't stay still unless I pushed it against the wall and I found it difficult to put all my weight on my hands during this pose, but with practice, I'm sure I will be able to do it. Down to the floor, doing back extensions, then hamstrings stretches. Half-boat pose was also challenging for me but definately a gut buster. At the end your feet are up on the chair and you relax back on the mat, and if you are like me, you want to stay there and just veg out for another half an hour! The tape is great for beginners, though if someone has a serious back or neck problem they should bring it to their doctor to check out first.I give it an "A"
Instructor Comments:
Rodney Yee has a very soothing voice, gives very clear directions, telling you when to breathe in and when to breathe out. I love it when he says "relax your brain", I know my brain could use a little relaxing. He reminds you to soften your throat and your belly, telling you where on your body to experience the work and where you should be relaxed. His form is incredible and he's very easy to follow. I'd give the instructor of this video a solid "A".
Tammy
01/07/2000
This cost $6.99 at Target. I got this because my back was sore from too much high impact. The setting is a peaceful beach. You'll need a strap or belt and a chair. It is only about 20 minutes long and goes through the usual back stretches: side and forward bends, spinal twist, cobra, bridge, etc. It helps that many of the poses use the chair for support. Then floor poses for stretching and strengthening the back. I found one pose kind of awkward, the "upward facing dog". It is a fairly deep backward bend supported by a chair. It didn't hurt, just felt very odd. I don't think I'll use this on a regular basis as my back is fine now and I have other stretch tapes I like
Instructor Comments:
He is very flexible and has a nice relaxing voice.
Alta
11/20/1999
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:52:38 GMT
Back in Action: Yoga for a Healthy Back
Mimi Solaire
Year Released: 2015
NOTE: I received a free copy of this DVD to review for the web site Metapsychology Online Reviews; please see that site for a more detailed version of my review.
This DVD is the latest offering from yoga instructor Mimi Solaire, whose previous DVDs have included Deep Stretch Yin Yoga as well as another back-focused video, Back in Shape. It is broken into three segments, which are chaptered and listed on the Main Menu as follows: Warming Up, Part I – Core Conditioning, Part II – Stretching, Part III. Solaire is featured alone in an outdoor patio-like setting, and she teaches via voiceover. I have provided a brief overview of each segment below.
Warming Up (9:07 minutes)
Solaire begins this section lying on the back. She brings one knee alternately into the chest, flowing with moving the arms overhead. Bringing both knees in, she then places the feet on the floor for some gentle pelvic tilts, eventually moving in bridge pose. This is followed by a reclined twist, continuing to flow from one side to the other. Next, Solaire comes to hands and knees for cat/cow and spinal rotations. From here, she moves into sphinx (adding a leg raise), seal pose, and cobra. She pushes back into child's pose, pounding the back briefly, adds a lateral stretch to the child's pose, and then finishes back in child's pose.
Core Conditioning (9:46 minutes)
For the core segment, Solaire also starts lying on the back. She again performs bridge pose, adding in variations. Next, she moves into several types of crunches, including a basic crunch and a butterfly crunch. Coming to lying on her side, Solaire begins a sequence of Pilates-like moves: front-back kicks, front-back touches, and then swimming (on belly) before repeating on the second side. Returning to lying face-down, Solaire performs a locust series, folding the hands behind the head and then at low back. This section also concludes in child's pose.
Stretching (17:47 minutes)
Solaire explains that this segment is a combination of resistance stretching and yin yoga. Again, she begins lying on her back. The resistance stretching work comes first, starting with tensing the hamstrings, then releasing, attempting to go a little deeper each time. She does the same with a bent leg, face-down hamstring stretch. Coming to the knees, Solaire continues the resistance stretching with a moving lunge, dropping back into a runner's lunge. Next, she returns to a prone position for a single-leg quad stretch. This is followed by stretching both quads at the same time, or bow pose, which is held for ten breaths--this brings the routine more into the yin stretches. Solaire returns to her knees for a deeper, longer held lunge targeting the psoas muscle. Following this, she comes back to lying for a Figure 4 stretch (aka reclined pigeon pose), also held longer, and then a reclined twist. This practice concludes with shavasana, which Solaire states is the "most important" pose, yet in less than 30 seconds, the credits start to roll, and the music quickly comes to an end.
I have never had the opportunity to try Solaire's other back DVD, Back in Shape, although I am aware that it is just 30 minutes long and features only two segments. I do, however, own Solaire's Deep Stretch Yin Yoga, which has three 20-minute segments, including a section on "Back Stretches." In comparison, Solaire moves at much more of a slow, measured pace on the Yin Yoga DVD, and I felt like I got more out of the stretches as a result. The final section of Back in Action, "Stretching, Part III," was probably the most similar to this, and I'm sure that's why I enjoyed it the most; in addition to being helpful for the back, I think it would make a great post-workout stretch. In contrast, Parts 1 and II felt a bit rushed to me. Still, this is a generally likable DVD overall--made more so by the pleasant guitar music provided by Kurt Kleinhans--and I would recommend it.
Instructor Comments:
I like Mimi in general, I just wish she didn't move so quickly through these routines. It's too bad because the sequences themselves are quite nice, and she moves at so much more of a relaxing, measured pace in her Deep Stretch Yin Yoga DVD.
Beth C (aka toaster)
02/16/2016
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 12:59:22 GMT
Ballet Yoga
Nicky McGinty
Year Released: 2013
NOTE: I received a free copy of this DVD (as part of a set) to review for the web site Metapsychology Online Reviews.
British native Nicky McGinty had a background as a dancer and choreographer before she trained in India to become a certified yoga instructor. She has studied in various styles of yoga, includin Kundalini, Ashtanga, Jivamukti, and Vinyasa Flow. In this box set, McGinty offers three previously released DVDs which blend her teachings of dance and yoga. This DVD features McGinty teaching alone in a large indoor studio. The Main Menu offers the options below:
Play All (78 mins.)
Workout One (26 mins.)
Workout Two (29 mins.)
Workout Three (20 Mins.)
Bonus Feature -- Chair (7 mins.)
Cool Down (6 mins.)
Options [music & instruction or music only]
The first workout is a slow flow (26:08) in which McGinty moves through a variation of sun salutations, adding warrior 2, triangle pose, and side angle. Additional moves include pliés, a standing thigh stretch, pyramid pose, and dancer's pose. This section ends with tree pose. The second routine (24:18) starts seated with breathwork and then moves into seated flexion/extension, arm waves, and wrist stretches. McGinty then proceeds to reclined core work (butterfly crunches, twists, roll ups). This is followed by all fours work: spinal rolls, down dog, and plank; she finishes with sun salutations. For the final workout (19:55), McGinty begins with what she calls "lunar" salutations, although these were basically the same salutations she did in the first workout, adding pulses. She then performs moves on all fours, working the hips and buttocks. Following this, McGinty proceeds to a Pilates-like segment of kneeling side kicks, mermaid, and lying side kicks. She finishes with a round of lunge salutations. The chair segment consisted of some VERY slow ballet moves such as pliés, relevés, and back leg lifts. Finally, the last segment begins standing but then moves to the floor for cat/cow, bound angle, wide angle with a side bend, pigeon pose, full seated forward bend, reclined leg stretch, and a shavasana that lasts mere seconds. I found it disappointing that you need to select this last chapter separately.
Overall, I didn't click with this DVD, despite the fact that I enjoy both yoga and ballet workouts. The three segments didn't really seem to be distinct from one another, and the addition of ballet felt awkward. McGinty is pleasant enough, but her routines generally didn't appeal to me.
Beth C (aka toaster)
03/15/2016
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 17:52:10 GMT
Basic Flow Yoga Elizabeth Augustine Essner The practice runs approximately 57 minutes and has no chapters. It is a dvd+r recording. It was filmed in Maui on the South Shore. It features music by Snatam Kaur Khalsa which was motivating and uplifting during the session. The practice: Starting with the breath, you'll set your intentions on what you'll gain from the class. Pelvic undulations (or navel grinds) begin to open the body and prepare the lower back. Spinal flexes back and forth in a rhythmic pattern begin to increase flexibility in the spine (and warm the body further). Next Elizabeth performs shoulder rolls with the same rhythmic movement. Next up is cat/cow which articulates the spine and then you'll move into down dog. A slow paced mini sun salute follows. Nice side stretches open the side of the body and tones the waist. The last piece of the extended warmup includes a fluid back stretch into a forward bend. This dynamic warmup prepares the participant for the poses. The core of the workout begins with a sun salutation which Elizabeth runs through about 8 times. (tips for modifications are included) This is not "power yoga" as the pace is slower and the holds are longer. The standing poses offer toning benefits for the lower body. Elizabeth demonstrates wonderful hip opening and muscle lengthening poses, such as pigeon and seated forward bend. You'll conclude the practice with lying spinal twists and rocks, releasing the back. Elizabeth finishes the session just as she began--with the breath. (and a nice final relaxation) The pace of the practice is perfect for those new to yoga. It will also benefit those that are not new to yoga by allowing them more time in the poses. Very well done with beautiful production values, this is a great addition to any home practice. Instructor Comments: Elizabeth provides great form tips throughout the practice. She also uses visual cues along with verbal ones (imagine a bow you are bringing all the way back). Her website is www.bodyoflightyoga.comDeniseR 07/06/2007 |
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 17:55:20 GMT
Baywatch Yoga Rhythms
April Underwood, Jackie Potter
Year Released: 2003
I am a beginner whowas intrigued by Collage's description of this tape. The dance segment is fun,fun,fun! Lots of hip rocking and neat arm movements. I did not break a huge sweat, but it still made me feel more coordinated and agile. For more advanced exercisers, I imagine it would make a nice cool down after another tape.
The yoga and ab sections were beautifully done. Just challenging enough for a beginner, and not "mystical" or off-putting.
I might also add that this is a gorgeous, shot-on film production. They switch back and forth between an outdoor garden and a luxurious indoor cabin. I found that the switching was not at all distracting and kept me alert and interested.
The resident "Baywatch" babe, Gena Lee Nolin, is actually not as bothersome as I expected her to be! She follows all the moves to the letter, and rarely says anything (when she does, it's short and easily tuned out). The occasional cleavage shot is easily forgiven.
All in all, I'd say this is a great tape for beginners looking to improve their coordination before attempting more challenging dance tapes. More advanced exercisers won't find it hard, but it is still fun!
Instructor Comments:
April is wonderful: clear about the moves; non-intimidating for a beginner like me;cheerful without being overly perky or bubbly. She is a wonderful dancer. Jackie is also very helpful, even a confirmed non-yoga-head like me understood every move.
Sasha
01/22/2009
Being the cardio queen and strength studdette that I am, I recently realized that I have been ignoring an important, essential element to my workouts. Flexibility training. Now I may be pretty advanced when it comes to cardio and strength but when it comes to flexibility, I am probably in the beginner/intermediate category (and I'm being generous by saying intermediate). So when I saw the Baywatch Yoga Rhythms video on sale, I threw all caution to the wind and purchased it. Now I usually don't do exercise videos with celeberties featured in them but for some reason, this one intrigued me.
I must admit, that I was pleasantly surprised with this video. The video is only 40 minutes long but consists of seven segments which can easily be broken up. The first few segments consists of a warm up and light aerobics using tribal dance movements. Collage accurately lists the aerobics as being only 13 minutes long. While this may not be a suitable cardio workout for an advanced exerciser, I found it to be a nice way to warm up my body for the yoga/pilates exercises in the second half of the video which is why I purchased this tape. I actually broke into a little sweat doing the dancing. The tribal dancing was nice and I absolutely loved the music. The moves were pretty simple and easy to catch on to. I'm definately not a dancer but the music just makes you want to move. You also do the entire workout with no shoes so I found this to be nice for a change.
Gena Lee Nolan does not lead this workout. Two other instructors, April who leads the tribal dance segment, and Jackie leads the yoga/pilates sections are both very good instructors. They are easy to follow and likable. Gena just follows along with what the instructors are doing and they all look like they are having a good time.
The Yoga/Pilates sections are very relaxing and soothing. The stretches just felt so good, I could rewind and do this section again. I also like to tack on this section to the end of a cardio or tough strength workout. This segment is only 15 minutes long but it does the job.
I really recommend this video for those who are just getting started with a flexibility program and also for those who are just starting an exercise program can get cardio and flexibility in this tape.
Instructor Comments:
Tiffanee Saunders
01/23/1999
First of all, Collage rates this video as Intermediate. Its not. Since I don't post on the forums, I will say that I am a beginning (overweight) exerciser (also, I'm not an experienced reviewer! I do know that some of you have been looking for a review, though). For comparison, I find FIRM Basics Abs, Buns & Thighs to be very tough, and I sweat hard. This is not a "sweat" tape, even for me. I expected it to be a little harder. I rewind the aerobics section to do it twice.
However, I really really like this video! It is basically in two parts, the aerobics section, and the stretch/yoga/pilates section. The first section is instructed by April Underwood. It is based on a few basic moves, the "pelvic scoop" (I guess it is kind of a pelvic thrust), the "rock", where you rock back and forth and kind of "play the drums" with your hands, and some squatting. The music in the aerobics section is great. It is by a ten-piece band, and really is funky. The aerobics is way too short, and like I said, I rewind it. The choreography is very easy, I hate too much choreography, and I picked it up the first time I went through it. However, I still felt pretty funky doing the tribal/rhythmic dance. April's cuing was very good.
Next is the yoga/stretch section. The first part is led by April Underwood, and she does the mountain, warrior and tree poses. And downward dog. I have never done any yoga or yoga-type things before, and I could follow it very easily. Then it moves into Jackie Potter's section. She does more yoga/pilates stuff, most of which I could do. I could not hold "plank" for very long. She moves into some ab work where I can really feel my lower abs working (and I can feel it the next day, too). I think these must be some of the Pilates movements. At the end, there's a guided meditation.
I think this is a really fun tape, but it doesn't do too much. I think for advanced exercisers it would be really good for a rest day, and for beginners like me, it is a good add on to another workout (I added on the aerobics to a FIRM tape the other day). If I do the whole tape by itself, I feel very relaxed by the end of it.
Instructor Comments:
I really liked April Underwood. I thought she was a fun instructor. I am ambivalent about Jackie Potter. I guess she was nice and relaxing.
Brandy
01/16/1999
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 17:56:25 GMT
Beginner's Workout
Wai Lana
Year Released: 2004
I thought I would write a review of this since I noticed there aren't any. This workout spent over a year in my "goodie box" before I took it out and tried it because I wasn't expecting much. (I bought the kit to get the mat.)
I was very pleasantly surprised.
Wai Lana is very good, the production values are superb, and the workout was very good. Also, I liked the music.
The workout was a fairly easy stretchy yoga workout...nothing "power" about it.
And, the best part: NO DOWN DOGS ANYWHERE!
The moves included a couple of stretches I hadn't seen before, but I don't remember their names.
If you like soothing, relaxing yoga, you really ought to give this one a try...it's a treat!
Instructor Comments:
Very festive dresser, very soothing voice, very knowledgeable, very flexible. Her voice takes some getting used to, but it grew on me.
Laura (LCC)
05/01/2004
I tried a Wai Lana Yoga workout for the first time last night. Aaaackkk - just say NO!
I started her Beginners DVD and lasted about 15 minutes. Her voice is soothing, the costumes and scenery are lovely. But I had no idea what she was doing. She doesn't say WHAT she is doing. She has odd names for poses. And I've never seen most of these poses. Nevermind.
Instructor Comments:
Her voice is soft and sing-song, with a strong accent that can be difficult to understand. Her costumes are colorful and bright. She wears a lei that she puts on and takes off depending on the pose. The scenery is breathtaking. But her style of yoga is not my cup of tea.
Alta
03/19/2004
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 17:57:32 GMT
Beginning Yoga
Chrissy Carter
Year Released: 2012
I recently purchased this DVD at a used book sale. Although I am not a beginner--I have been practicing yoga since 2001 and have been a yoga teacher for the past 3 years--I was familiar with instructor Chrissy Carter through her blog. I thought I might be able to learn some things from this video that would be beneficial for my teaching.
This DVD offers three separate practices. The Main Menu appears as follows:
PLAY ALL
Introduction
Connect
Energize
Strengthen
Audio Options
The audio options offer full instruction or poses only. For each of the three practices, Carter is outdoors in a pretty poolside setting. She starts each practice with a very brief live introduction, but then the sequence itself is taught via voiceover. Each routine has a stopping point about two minutes early, giving the view an opportunity to end their practice by skipping final relaxation (shavasana), something I did not like at all. I also did not like that the rests were very brief (about 2 min). I have provided more details on each practice below along with time information. (Although the practices are supposed to be about 20 minutes, they are all several minutes long--this is a pet peeve of mine!)
CONNECT (23:51 min)
This practice starts on the back, breathing into the ribs and then drawing alternate knees in. Next is cat/cow, flowing into downward dog. Some stronger moves follow, including a knee hover, downward dog/plank, bent knee chaturanga, and cobra. Standing postures include overhead reach, chair, overhead reach with knee up, tree pose, and warrior 2. Returning to lying on the back, the practice concludes with reclined pigeon (ankle-to-knee or Figure 4), double leg twist, seated pose, and short relaxation (after the pause).
ENERGIZE (21:52 min)
This routine begins standing with mountain, overhead reach, and lunge. Additional standing poses include side angle, triangle, and wide-legged forward bend, and then there is a transition through low lunge, child's pose, cobra, and locust. After an odd transition to upward-facing dog, poses continue on the floor with bridge, bound angle, staff pose, seated forward bend, and easy seat with forward bend. There is a short relaxation at the end (after the pause).
STRENGTHEN (23:52 min)
This last practice opens in a seated position and moves into a tilted lateral stretch and then table with some arm/shoulder work. Next is downward dog to two sun salutations, with the option of adding upward-facing dog. Continued standing work includes eagle arms with fierce pose and interlaced arms overhead. The routine moves back down to the floor with table balance and several flows from boat pose to bound angle. From a lying position, the postures are bridge pose and eagle legs twists, and then it's back to seated to finish with seated wide angle, bound angle forward bend. As with the other two practices, there is an optional short relaxation at the end (after the pause).
What I liked best about these practices was Carter's use of analogy/imagery. She has very colorful ways of describing the poses, helping to make them more accessible. That being said, this is NOT a DVD I would recommend to those with no prior yoga experience. Although Carter does provide detailed instruction, she is still flowing at a pretty good tempo, not one that would allow those new to yoga to pause, become familiar with the pose, and create a mind-body connection. More experienced beginner might click with these routines a little better, at least based on difficulty level. However, I was not a fan of Carter's sequencing or overall style (e.g., emphasizing having to keep the body "perfectly" in certain positions), and so in the end, I would not recommend this DVD.
Instructor Comments:
Chrissy was enthusiastic and seemed sweet, but her style did not click with me.
Beth C (aka toaster)
11/12/2018
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Post by Karla on Oct 1, 2023 18:03:53 GMT
Beyond Basic Yoga For Dummies
Sara Ivanhoe
Year Released: 2002
This DVD goes through 12 Yoga poses, which Sara calls the "Daily Dozen". In my opion, the order of the poses is what makes this workout so enjoyable. Sara starts you off with some warm-up poses like Chair, Warrior, and Triangle. Then she continues to stretch you out with the Wide Leg Standing Forward Bend and the Low Lunge Twist. Next you move on to some more challenging poses like Upward Facing Dog and Dolphin. Later you do some more relaxing poses like the Reclined Butterfly. You end with the Final Relaxation, which, as Sara says, can induce sleep. I have to agree with her, because I felt like I could take a nap right there on the floor. I really enjoyed this workout. I cannot compare it to the first Yoga for Dummies, but Sara says this workout is a little bit more challenging. This DVD contains a bonus 15 minute guided meditation. Sara explains that meditation is not a religion, but rather just a great way to relax and focus. I like this DVD, because each pose is a different chapter. Just keep in mind that this is a "for Dummies" DVD, so it has the little myth busters and pointers that pop up on the screen every once in awhile. (This did not bother me as much as I thought it would.) I really liked this workout!
Instructor Comments:
Great instruction and form pointers, not a lot of extra chatter, but a few funny remarks about the poses. Her voice is very relaxing which is great for a yoga video.
Laura
12/29/2002
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