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DVD Review: Yoga Booty Ballet — Goddess Booty and Yoga Core

FitSugar — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:30:00 -0800

Right around this time last year I felt my abs burn from the Goddess Abs workout by the two women behind Yoga Booty Ballet, so I thought it was about time that I tried a couple more workouts by the peppy duo. I was looking forward to testing the two-disc set that includes Goddess Booty (25 min.) and Yoga Core (30 min.), but my experience with these DVDs wasn't all-around positive.

Gillian and Teigh used yogic terminology so frequently that it seemed unnecessary and an attempt to distract me from the fact that I wasn't getting a workout. There was a lot of guided breathing and claims that they were feeling the burn, but I did not feel that the workout made any impact on making my booty beautiful, as they said it would. The pair was good at explaining what each exercise was targeting but stayed in each variation for so few reps that I couldn't feel the slightest burn in my booty. Their cheesy encouragement to "feel like a goddess, feel beautiful," was enough to make me irritated and not at all centered.

See what I thought of the Yoga Core video when you

DVD Review: Shiva Rea — Creative Core Abs

FitSugar — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 04:00:00 -0700

I'm always looking for ways to sculpt and strengthen my abs without having to do crunches, so I was psyched to try Shiva Rea's Creative Core Abs ($9.99). I've loved her Yoga DVDs in the past (especially Fluid Power — Vinyasa Flow Yoga), so I had a feeling this would be just as great. Her voice is calming, her instructions are clear, and her routines are always challenging.

The DVD includes three short workouts: Water Core (10 min), Spontaneous Core (8 min), and Fire Core (10 min); you can do all three in a row, or choose which ones you want to do. The sequencing is very fluid and dance-like, so the time goes by really quickly. It definitely doesn't feel like yoga. Shiva encourages you to explore your range of motion, and even though this video was focused on the abs, the movements strengthened and stretched my upper and lower back, hips, quads, shoulders, and neck too. Cool to know that even Shiva Rea is all about the core.

If you're looking for a DVD that works your abs in a unique way you can order it here or rent it through Netflix.

Move It at Home: HoopDance

FitSugar — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 04:00:00 -0800

Are you a little skeptical about how hula hooping can keep you fit? I was too until I checked out HoopDance ($24.99). It's an instructional fitness DVD that's perfect for beginners who want to learn how to move their bodies in a sexy way that tones and strengthens. Even if you can't keep a hoop in motion for more than two seconds (like me), Christabel Zamor, founder of HoopGirl, will give you tips on how to keep it spinning around your waist, and how to gracefully pick it up if it falls. Since I'm not much of a hula hooper, I spent the first 20 minutes trying to learn how to get this basic rhythm down, and I could feel my heart pumping, my abs, hips, and lower back working, and I was stripping off layers because I was working up a sweat. All that from the very first chapter of the video!

Want to see a clip of HoopDance? Then

Move It at Home: Kundalini Yoga to Detox and Destress

FitSugar — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 12:30:00 -0800

The DVD Kundalini Yoga to Detox and Destress ($14.99) is designed to wake up the dormant kundalini energy that lies in your fourth chakra. Once you wake up this energy, it will awaken your spirit, energize your body, and relax your mind. Too bad this DVD totally put me to sleep.

I did really like the calming all-white background and the melodic music Maya Feinnes (the instructor) made herself. The actual movement part was what didn't do it for me. She basically did 40 minutes of seated warm-up exercises to work the neck, spine, and hips. Forty minutes of sitting down! This is not at all like the butt-kicking yoga I'm used to. The movements were really repetitive, so it's great for beginners and if you're in the mood to move slowly, but really boring if you're expecting to move more.

She also says a lot of spiritual affirmations like "challenge yourself; release your old stagnant energy; your future is clear; don't give up; you're almost there," which are a little weird. The breathing and sound exercises really added to the whole snooze factor for me. This wasn't much of a workout at all, so it'd be perfect for someone who needed to release tension and stress.

Want to see a clip of this DVD to see what I mean? Then

Move It at Home: Viniyoga Therapy For the Upper Back, Neck, and Shoulders

FitSugar — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 11:00:00 -0800

If you suffer from pain or tightness in your back, neck, or shoulders, then you might really benefit from using the Viniyoga Therapy For the Upper Back, Neck, and Shoulders DVD. The first part of the video explains why so many people have these pains in the first place and how yoga can be integral in healing these areas. The second part breaks down some simple exercises and poses to warm up and stretch the spine, neck, and shoulders.

If learning about the causes of your discomfort and working on basic exercises is boring, and you want to get right to alleviating the pain, then skip to the third part where you are led through 20-, 30-, and 40-minute sessions of yoga. Just so you know, this video doesn't involve a whole lot of moving around. The three practices involve physical-therapy exercises based on yoga poses, and a lot of slow movements to stretch and strengthen weak and painful areas. This DVD will be perfect for you if you are injured or dealing with chronic pain in your neck, shoulders, or back. It's also a great video if you are a beginner yogi who wants to do a low-impact practice to reduce stress.

Move It at Home: Winsor Pilates 20 Minute Circle Workout

FitSugar — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 04:00:00 -0800

It is always fun to mix some accessories into a Pilates workout, and the magic circle is one of my favorite Pilates props. Marni Winsor (caution: The Winsor web site has automatic video/audio) has a 20 Minute Circle Workout DVD. This workout is short and to the point. Adding leg squeezes to ab work just seems to make the abs work more deeply. Plus it is nice to work lazy inner thighs! This DVD contains exercises that work all body parts, with an emphasis on the abs; it is Pilates after all.

In this DVD there are options for different levels of students. One of the three demonstrators does beginner versions of all the exercises. These variations would also work if you are dealing with a neck injury. One odd thing about the DVD is that the three demonstrators are all so well behaved, polished and choreographed there is an air of "finishing school" about the workout.

The DVD also includes a basic aerobic workout with Pilates lingo added into the mix. The aerobics or "Accelerated Fat Burning Workout" is fine, but I'll stick to Jamie King dance routines – thank you very much.

You can find the DVD on Amazon either used ($15) or new ($2. The DVD is available at the Winsor Pilates website but only in packages with other DVDs.

Move It at Home: Ballet Conditioning by Element

FitSugar — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:00:00 -0800

If you are looking to move it at home, but can't stomach another loud, in your face, overly busy workout DVD, I suggest you try Ballet Conditioning produced by Element.

Shot in a lovely garden overlooking the ocean don't let the serene environment fool you because this workout will make your legs burn. It is what I would have called in my dance days a quad gripper. The fronts of my thighs got a serious workout. The video runs just a little under an hour and the workout is more like a very rudimentary ballet class than an aerobics class. It is structured like a technique class with bar work (using a chair), and center work where you are forced to balance on your own (good for your core), a jumping section (petite allegro for all the bun heads out there), some very dancey ab work, and finally some stretching.

The movements are all reasonably easy to do. Someone who has never danced might find it a little challenging on the first go around but would definitely pick up the graceful moves on the second or third go round. This is not the best workout for a day after a long run; I learned that the hard way. The workout is very leg intensive from the big toe all the way to the upper thighs and booty.

Buy it for $9 from Amazon. Or just add it to your Netflix queue.

Move It at Home: Better Sex Through Yoga - Volume 2

FitSugar — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 04:00:00 -0800

A while back I reviewed the beginner yoga DVD, Better Sex Through Yoga, Volume 1. Well, I decided it was time to get a little more advanced, or rather intermediate and try Volume 2 ($14.95), the Intermediate edition. This isn't an erotic video with explicit instructions of the Kama Sutra sex positions. It's just like any other yoga video, except this 46 minute workout focuses on opening your hips, hamstrings, and lower back.

Although I really did like the creative sequencing of postures, I must say I found the close up shots of the instructor's shorty shorts, not only unnecessary but unprofessional as well. I thought Volume 2 was a bit more cheesy than the first volume since it included the same annoying music and even more repetitions of the instruction to "Breathe deeply into your sexual core." It also has more of a hint of sexuality, which aggravated me since yoga isn't about sex (for me anyway). I think I might buy this for a yoga friend as a gag gift, or for newlyweds, but aside from that, I'd rather practice along with the many other better yoga videos out there.

Move It At Home: Billy Blanks Full Throttle Amped

FitSugar — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 04:00:00 -0800

Did you know that Billy Blanks is still kicking ol’ school? He just released a new series of DVDs and the other night I checked out Billy Blanks Amped ($17.99). I was impressed that the DVD wasn’t over produced and you could tell that the workout was shot in one take with many cameras, so the folks exercising on the DVD were working with you. Billy Blanks does not slow down. He has, however, lost the ability to count and has hired a young, cute but fierce, fitness professional to count on set for him. Together they make quite a team.

The workout is tough and when using the amplifier sculpting bar, an extendable hand weight, it gets even tougher. The amplifier weighs just a little over three pounds (according to my kitchen scale).The workout is shot with only half the class participants using the amplifiers, so if you don’t have one there is still plenty for you to do. The class goes through many kick boxing motions at different speeds, so you're working both your endurance and your speed, your slow muscle fibers as well as the quick twitch. Bouts of straight up kick boxing moves are thrown into the mix ensuring that your heart rate stays in the upper zone of moderate and the lower zone of intense. I wore my trusty heart rate monitor and burned well over 300 calories for my time investment of just under 60 minutes low impact.

I love that you can see everyone sweating. It inspires you to work hard. Blanks likes to get up close to the camera and tell you to push harder and not to give up. It is part Mr. T, part inspiring coach and oddly effective.

To see what the amplifier looks like, just

Move It at Home: Power to the Peaceful Yoga

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 04:00:00 -0800

If you're a fan of Jivamukti Yoga, or have always wanted to check out this style of yoga, here's a video for you to try called Power to Peaceful Yoga ($14.99). Sharon Gannon and David Life, the founders of this invigorating type of yoga, collaborated with musician Michael Franti (from Spearhead) to bring you this DVD. Jivamukti Yoga isn't limited to just stretching your body. It connects yoga with music, social justice, the practice of non-violence, vegetarianism and laughter for a more fulfilling practice. It's for people looking to deepen their self awareness, strengthen their relationships with others, and work towards a more peaceful world.

The practice opens with chanting and yogic breathing, and then moves right into Sun Salutations variations. Sharon and David give very specific directions and descriptions of the poses and movements, so even though this video moves quickly (which I love), it's easy to follow along. This flowing practice focuses on following the breath and opening the body, so you feel strong, calm, and centered.

This is one of the best yoga DVDs I've tried because it involves a challenging practice, but also brings in the spiritual aspect of yoga which can get lost in mainstream yoga videos. I recommend this to yoga newbies and experienced practitioners as well. You can buy it directly from Acacia.

Move It at Home: Shiva Rea — Radiant Heart Yoga

FitSugar — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:45:00 -0800

There are many yoga DVDs out there, and I'm definitely a fan of the ones made by Shiva Rea. She has such a calm and mesmerizing voice that guides you into a state of tranquility. Her videos are shot in breathtaking scenery accompanied by beautiful, melodic music. Plus, they're great for both beginners and advanced yogis who want to deepen their yoga practice to more than just a physical experience.

I just picked up her latest DVD, called Radiant Heart Yoga ($15). There are three parts to this video, the first of which is called Prayer Wheel. It's eight minutes of slow and deliberate repeated movements that get you in touch with your heart center, which helps bring your awareness to the powerful energy within you.

Rea then moves on to the second part, Heart Salutation, which begins with gentle poses that open the spine, hips, and hamstrings, and then moves on to to deeper stretches like backbends and twists. She encourages you to flow through your movements naturally and open through the chest. I love how she'll show you a pose, and then give intermediate variations if you want to take the pose further.

The third and final section, Energizing Heart Movement Mediation, is a three-minute sequence of movements meant to rid your rib cage of built-up stagnant energy.

I really liked this DVD, because not only did the sequence of postures stretch and strengthen my body, but I also loved how the poses were focused on opening the heart center. The experience is much more spiritual than physical, and by the end I felt centered, light, and full of love.

Move It At Home: Yoga Booty Ballet – Goddess Abs

FitSugar — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 07:30:00 -0700

The title of the DVD intrigued me more than anything – such an interesting mixture of concepts: yoga, booty and ballet. What more could a mother, who is trying to avoid the temptation of her daughters' Halloween goody bags, want?

The two ladies behind Yoga Booty Ballet have put together an effective abdominal routine that is just shy of 20 minutes. They call this mixture of yoga and Pilates "Goddess Abs" and it is fun to do since these gals certainly keep you going. Much of the work is done using a small squishy ball (which I guess comes with the fitness package of DVD and diet info you can buy from the Beach Body web site). However, the work is quite effective without the prop.

The workout moves quite briskly, and suggestions for beginners are only offered a handful of times, but many pseudo yogic inspirational phrases are repeated often while you crunch your abs to oblivion. I enjoyed the workout, however, I did not enjoy the coy instructors leading the DVD and their pearls of wisdom. If you are looking to spice up your ab routine, I would add the DVD to your NetFlix queue. It is certainly worth a rental and comes paired with the "AM Latte" invigorating morning workout. You can also find the DVD set for $18 from Amazon.

Move It at Home: Better Sex Through Yoga - Volume 1

FitSugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 09:30:00 -0700

The title of this DVD both intrigued me and made me shake my head with disbelief. Putting the "sex" in a title will certainly grab a shopper's attention. That being said, the connection does make sense since yoga can help in other areas of your life, including sex. Yoga not only benefits the body, but the mind as well. It gives you a stronger sense of self, gets you in touch with your feelings, heightens your awareness of the important things in life, and makes you feel more connected to your world and the people around you. Doing yoga makes you feel good about yourself, which can only enhance your relationships with others.

Better Sex Through Yoga is a 3-part DVD series. I checked out Volume 1 for Beginners. This 35-minute DVD is a lot like taking a regular vinyasa class, except that the poses and movements focus on opening the hips, hip flexors, hamstrings, and chest.

The woman leading the sequence of postures had a sweet and happy energy, and gave great instructions as to what your body should be doing. I liked how she stayed in each pose for a few breaths, but changed it up so it wasn't boring at all. The "class" included many of my favorite poses because hip openers are my fave. She wasn't cheesy at all, but the music sure was; so I was tempted to lower the volume on the DVD and pump up some of my favorite chanting music.

There was one little weird thing about this DVD. Want to know what it was? Then

Move It at Home: Winsor Pilates Back Workout

FitSugar — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:00:00 -0700

I am going to say this on record - nothing beats going to an actual Pilates mat class. An hour long class works every bit of your body, while stretching and lengthening you as well. Plus, the instructor is right there providing feedback and giving corrections, as well as discussing the subtleties of the Pilates method.

Now if you can't make it to a class, there are DVDs, but good Pilates DVDs are hard to find. The Winsor Pilates DVDs are broken up into 20 minute targeted workouts, and The Back Workout is no exception. However, this DVD is different since it was created to alleviate back tightness and pain. Winsor even warns at the beginning of the workout that if you suffer from chronic back pain, you should consult with your physician first. This DVD is definitely meant to help folks with tight weak backs get stronger so they can take regular Pilates classes.

The series begins with stretches for hip and thigh muscles and a spine warm up. Classic Pilates exercises are taught in very modified variations that are perfect for beginners since they are accompanied by considerably more details than many of the workout videos by Winsor. However, if you are not dealing with a bad back, this is less of a workout and more like a warm up or cool down with gentle ab work. I feel following this DVD would be a great way to prepare for a long run, or help you chill out at the end of a long day. If you do have back problems this series could be very beneficial for you, but like Mari said, you should consult with your physician or physical therapist before trying the DVD.

The Back Workout DVD is included in the Best Value package (which also includes 8 DVDs, a sculpting circle, exercise planner and cookbook) on the Winsor Pilates website for $79.80. You can also find individual copies for as low as $7.50 on Amazon.

Move It at Home: Gaiam YogaKids 2: ABC's

FitSugar — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:30:00 -0700

When my girls get antsy and we can't play outside because either the weather is not cooperating or it is too dang early to disturb our neighbors, I like to pop in a yoga DVD. I pull out the yoga mats and we do the poses together.

We all enjoy YogaKids 2: ABC by Gaiam. There are 26 kid-style yoga poses and games inspired by nature and other familiar icons kids love. Imitating butterflies and alligators is certainly a good time for the entire family, and the DVD provides a nice introduction to yoga philosophy. It is a wonderful and physical way to hang out with your kids. Plus it provides a nice pre-run warm up. It is challenging for the little ones, but they are usually game for anything. It is also cool to see their yoga practice evolve as they get more coordinated.

Suggested age for children watching this DVD is ages 3-6. My 2 year old does manage to follow along for the first 8 letters of the alphabet, but then she sits and watches calmly as her older sister and I work our bodies all the way to the letter "Z."

Buy it for $10.99 from Amazon.

Move it at Home: Dance of the Kama Sutra

FitSugar — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:30:00 -0700

If you think Dance of the Kama Sutra is NOT the kind of DVD you pop in with your kids or parents around, you're right. What is this dance? It's all about slow, sensual movements that put you in touch with your body and your heart. It's meant to help you celebrate your mischievous, loving, laughter-filled nature. It's a playful dance that opens your hips, back, shoulders, and chest to release any blocks that may be inhibiting you from embracing yourself and your sexuality. The sacred dance instills confidence, joy, and poise.

The instructor Hemalayaa is truly spiritual and inspirational. In the beginning of this DVD, she leads you through a short invocation, to help you bring your awareness inward, and help you to shut out any distractions or walls that may block you from experiencing love for yourself. This beginning meditation helps you to be completely present so that you can fully experience whatever feelings come up, so that you can learn more about yourself.

If you want to get right to the movements, skip to Chapter 2. It starts off really slow with neck and eye exercises, and then moves into swaying torso and spine movements. Then she adds the arms, legs, and the importance of the gaze. She encourages you to be spontaneous and move your body any way it wants to move.

I have to say that this is unlike any video I've ever seen. Dance of the Kama Sutra (14.99) teaches you how to use your body as an offering to your beloved. Practicing these fluid and sensual movements will make you feel more comfortable in your body, and make you feel more free and open to experience love. There's no wrong way to do this dance - it's the mood of this dance, not the moves that count. Since our sexuality is so important to our well-being, this DVD is sure to put a smile on your face and your lover's.

If you are interested in other types of Indian dance check out The Bollywood Dance Workout!

Move It at Home: Kung Fu Kickboxing

FitSugar — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Interested in practicing your bob and weave while floating like a butterfly and stinging like a bee? This Kung Fu Kickboxing exercise DVD from Acacia will help give you the eye of the tiger. The workout lead by Tiffany and Max Chen, both champion fighters, is shot on location in a boxing ring, which adds a great touch of authenticity.

Although the stretching and warm up sections are both a little too brief for my taste, this workout is seriously fun and has the potential to make you seriously sweaty. The instruction is fairly sparse, so this is not a great way to learn the basics of kickboxing. It is, however, a great way to get your heart rate up in the privacy of your own home.

The workout is divided into 3, twenty-ish minute sections, with each section increasing in level of difficulty. The workout breaks down like this:

Workout 1: The Basics -- Four sets of three-minute rounds containing two to three 30-second combat-oriented exercises
Workout 2: The Kicker -- A series of 30-second standing and floor calisthenics, 4 rounds of 4 exercises each done for 30 seconds
Workout 3: The Killer -- Repetitive cycles of challenging, explosive movements done in 4 rounds of 4 exercises, also done in descending numbers of reps starting with 10 ending in 1 (and you will be glad it is just one rep by the end!)

Since the workout is broken into sections you can customize your plan of attack and squeeze in 20 minutes, if that's all you have time for. Through the voice over, Tiffany encourages you to work at your own pace, but you find yourself compelled to throw your punches as quickly as the Chens. Although Max is barefoot for the workout, I encourage you to wear shoes like Tiffany since the repetitive jumping moves feel fairly high impact on the knees, hips and ankles.

Buy it for $14.99 directly from Acacia. Or try it before you buy and put it on your Netflix queue.

Move it at Home: Yoga for Athletes

FitSugar — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:45:00 -0700

Have you ever heard of Kimberly Fowler? She's got quite the story. In 1982, she got hit by a car in a bike race that left her severely injured. A physical therapist introduced her to Iyengar Yoga, and it helped her to heal and realign her body, and she began competing as a triathlete again.

She is now the NIKE Yoga Spokeswoman and she trains all levels of athletes in her Yoga for Athletes and YAS (Yoga and Spinning) classes and workshops.

This DVD called YOGA for ATHLETES, is based on her knowledge and experience with sports and yoga. It's a practice combining the elements of Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Power Yoga. The sequencing of poses are carefully selected with the athlete in mind, to work your hips, hamstrings, core abdominals and upper body. She believes that these are the areas that athletes abuse and injure, so they need special attention.

I loved the difficulty of this DVD. It moved slowly, but you end up holding poses for a long time, which really challenges your muscles and your mind. The only thing I wasn't too keen on was the background rock music, which was easily remedied - I just shut off the sound on the DVD and pumped up my favorite Krishna Das CD.

This video is perfect for someone who likes to push themselves physically, and wants the benefits of yoga without the flowery spiritual stuff. I laughed out loud when I read the front cover that says: "Yoga is a Sport. No Chanting. No Granola. No Sanskrit." This DVD is all about moving, stretching and strengthening your body through the power of Yoga. Order it directly from the YAS website for $24.95.

Move it at Home: Beryl Bender Birch Power Yoga - The Practice

FitSugar — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Sometimes you have to stick with a winner, and even though Beryl Bender BIrch's Power Yoga: The Practice DVD came out in 2002, it illustrates Ashtanga Yoga's Primary Series beautifully. Since this series of poses never changes, this DVD is timeless.

It illustrates the poses of Primary Series just like David Swenson's Primary Series DVD, but what I love about this video is that the instructor is a woman. You won't just see her on a mat perfectly demonstrating the poses on some pristine mountainside or meadow either. The video is filmed as she instructs a class of students with all different body types and levels of flexibility and strength. That way you can see modifications for all the poses.

I had the honor of taking her Power Yoga Workshop many years ago, and Beryl's personality is so warm, kind, and supportive. She realizes that Primary Series is difficult, so she encourages you to listen to your own body and not push yourself too hard. I love that she realizes that practicing yoga is all about becoming aware and open, and not so much about how deeply you can forward bend. I'd recommend this DVD to beginner's and advanced Ashtanga yogis.

The entire practice is 90 minutes long, but you can do as much as you want. I like to pop it in when I can't make it to a class, or if I need to stretch after a run. I also like to bring it along with my laptop when I go on trips. Now I have no excuse to forgo exercise while I'm away from home. Order it from Amazon for $13.99.

Move It at Home: Rock Your Body with Jamie King

FitSugar — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Want to dance like Madonna, Britney and Rhiana? Want to get a workout while you do learn their cool moves? With the new DVD Rock Your Body with Jamie King you can learn hip hop in the comfort and safety of your own home. And you will have fun doing it! I certainly did.

The DVD runs about an hour and keeps you moving at a comfortable pace for the entire 60 minutes. The workout is broken down into six main sections: a warm-up, rehearsal 1, rehearsal 2, dress rehearsal (where you put the moves in from rehearsal 1 and rehearsal together slowly), the performance (where you put the two sections together more quickly in front of an "audience"), and a brief cool down.

Taught like a hip hop class, the moves are presented in 8 count segments and broken down step by step. You then have a chance to perfect the moves working at half tempo (half as quick as the bear of the music) before repeating the moves at tempo 4 times. Changing from half-time to tempo can be a bit challenging, but it keeps you thoroughly engaged in the workout and time flies.

I found that dancing without a mirror (who has a huge mirror in TV room?), it was easy to imagine that I looked as hot as Jamie and his back dancers while attempting the hip hop inspired moves. There is no need to prefect the steps on the first go around, since you can use the DVD over and over again without getting bored. Jamie King is also really encouraging, without being sappy, that you look forward to working out with him. Madonna is lucky she has such a cool choreographer to work with.

Now, if you do not like dance workouts, this DVD is not for you. It is all dance moves - no crunches or push-ups tacked on at the end. I did burn just over 300 calories (yes, I wore my heart rate monitor) and was able to dance the moves in my tiny living room. I had fun.

You can pick up a copy of "Rock Your Body" for $17.99 from Amazon.
Or add the DVD to your Netflix queue.

Move it at Home: Power Yoga - Total Body

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:30:00 -0700

Yoga DVDs are a great option when you can't make it to a class. They're great to do anytime of the day, and you really can't have enough in your home library. I am always on the lookout for good ones, especially from well-known instructors.

I came across this video from Gaiam featuring Rodney Yee called Power Yoga - Total Body. The introduction was sweet and inspirational - it talked about the purpose of your yoga practice, and how to make it as spiritual as it is physical.

The workout part of the video is 60 minutes long, so you can do as much as you have time for. The actual practice starts off slow and steady, focusing on matching your inhales and exhales with your movements. As the practice continues, Rodney begins with basic poses and gradually builds to make the practice deeper. His voice is so deep and calming, that I never felt rushed, and the gorgeous Hawaiian coastline left me feeling light and happy.

This video is in Vinyasa format, so it includes a lovely sequence of yoga postures that flow into one another, like a dance. The class incorporates a beautiful balance of forward bends, backbends, twists and arm balancing poses for a total body workout.

It's really easy to follow along because it's just him on a gorgeous mountain, with no other distractions. His instructions are simple, so this video is great for beginners. It's also great for people who have been practicing yoga a while, because if you can't make it to a class, this video will work your entire body, leaving your muscles stretched and your mind calm. Get it through Amazon for only $8.99.

Move It at Home: Crunch Bikini Body - DVD

FitSugar — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 09:30:00 -0700

After my outside jog last night, I tried out the Bikini Body DVD ($12.99) from Crunch that promises sleek abs, toned thighs and a firm bikini butt.

Let me just preface this review by saying I am a hard sell when it comes to home workouts. The DVD is broken up into 4 parts, the whole workout (30 mins), just the abs (10 mins), just the thighs (10 mins) and just the butt (10 mins). I like that you can navigate directly to certain spots if you want to train just one body part using the video, or if you only have 10 minutes to squeeze in a quick workout. I started with the full workout and was a bit turned off with the busy camera work in the intro, but luckily all that stopped as the workout began.

The music was typical Crunch style, high energy and a little cheesy but it does pump you up. The workouts are done as if you're learning a dance routine -- You start with the first exercise and add on as you go along to complete a set of 5-6 exercises, all the way through, in the end. All you need to complete the workout is yourself and a DVD player, so no worries if you don't have dumbbells or exercise balls at home. The actual moves, if you can get past the added "sexiness" you're asked to bring to simple moves like squats and lunges, were good and challenging and I did feel like I got a decent workout. My heart rate was up most of the time, which I appreciated.

My husband has a blast watching (and laughing at) me do this one, so if you're looking to add a little sex pot to your routine, this bikini workout is for you. Me personally, I just felt ridiculous, but I will say that I had fun for the entire 30 minutes. Would I do it everyday? No way José, but I would definitely consider doing it every once in a while. To check it out for yourself, buy it from Amazon.com.

Move it at Home: Together - The Art of Partnered Yoga

FitSugar — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 08:45:00 -0700

I love doing yoga alone, but there is something amazing and profound about practicing with someone else. Partner Yoga is an equal exchange of giving and receiving, using the healing power of touch. It's about making a connection with yourself, with another, and with the world around you using the breath and the body. As you move in harmony with another, you share physical and emotional support, respect, encouragement, laughter, and joy.

If you're interested in learning more about Partner Yoga, you must check out this DVD called Together: The Art of Partnered Yoga by Mishabae ($17.99 through Amazon). Her explanations are easy to understand and follow, with modifications for beginners included.

In the four "Energy Sequences," she and a partner demonstrate the flow of poses with only music, so you can get a sense of the movements. If you want to hear the explanation of those four sequences (which is really helpful), there is also a segment called "Instructional Sequences," so you can better understand how to get into the poses.

The sequences are creative and inspirational, filled with compassion and serenity. Just watching these two people move together with dance-like grace to the peaceful music is extremely calming - just imagine what it will feel like when you do it.

Fit's Tips: Partner Yoga isn't just for "lovers." Any two people can benefit from practicing yoga together as a way to stretch your muscles and deepen your relationship. It's for mother and daughter, sister and brother, or two close friends. Through your combined yoga practice, together you achieve what wouldn't be possible on your own.

Move It At Home: Winsor Pilates Bun & Thigh Sculpting

FitSugar — Fri, 25 May 2007 11:00:00 -0700

I am going to say this on record - nothing beats going to an actual Pilates mat class. An hour long class works every bit of your body, while stretching and lengthening you as well. Plus there is an instructor there providing feedback and giving corrections, as well as discussing the subtleties of the Pilates method.

Now if you can't make it to a class, there are DVDs, but good Pilates DVDs are hard to find. If you are a Pilates regular and are familiar with the side lying mat series, then Winsor Pilates Bun & Thigh Sculpting DVD will be a great lower body workout for you. It runs a little over 20 minutes and targets the glutes, hamstrings and inner thighs. All the classic moves, from a traditional style Pilates mat class, are included. However, there is not a lot of instruction, which is great if you have done Pilates before, but I wouldn't recommend this DVD to a complete novice. Also included are exercises that work the back of the legs while lying on the stomach, or in a prone position if you want to get more technical.

I enjoyed the quick pace of the videos and appreciated not being bogged down by instructional interruptions, but as an instructor I do wish there was a little more specificity in the instructions given.

The Bun & Thigh DVD is included in the Targeted Training package (which also includes 6 DVDs, a sculpting circle, exercise planner and cookbook) on the Winsor Pilates website for $59.80. You can also find individual copies from Amazon for around $13.

Move it at Home: Shiva Rea - Sun Salutations DVD

FitSugar — Fri, 11 May 2007 15:45:00 -0700

I'm a huge fan of Shiva Rea. I love her serene yet inspiring energy in her yoga DVD Fluid Power. So I was really excited to check out the DVD Sun Salutations.

This DVD goes back to the basics, and she demonstrates how to do variations of Sun Salutations. You can choose from 5 short video segments: "classic practice," "surya namaskar A & B," "dancing warrior 1 & 2," "dancing warrior 3 & 4," and "lunar flow." Each one is only about 10-20 minutes long so you can easily fit one into your day. They can help gently wake you up for a quick morning practice. They're also a nice way to unwind in the evening. I also love doing Sun Salutations right before a run - it helps to warm my muscles up, and focus my mind.

Shiva Rea is well-known for her passionate teaching style. She describes the details of the various postures in a way that it easy to follow. Also, the videography of her DVDs surpass all others I've seen. She chooses the most amazing sites for filming. The image is so crisp and breathtaking - I feel like I'm there with her.

I definitely recommend this DVD ($14.99 through Amazon) to beginners and people looking to relieve stress. Following Shiva Rea's unique and slow flow of postures and listening to her sultry voice and the sensual music makes me feel an incredible sense of peace and openness.

Move it at Home: Baron Baptiste - Journey into Power

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:00:00 -0700

You know I'm a huge fan of Baron Baptiste and I love his LIVE DVD, Soul of Strength. He's got such incredibly positive and inspiring energy, it made me want to check out his other videos.

After making the LIVE DVDs, he went on to write a book called Journey Into Power. A year later, he made a 2-DVD video series also called Journey Into Power - Level 1 and Level 2.

These videos are filmed as he leads a group of actual yoga students through his Power Vinyasa class. These are regular people - not yoga models - so you can see how individual body types do the poses differently.

They're a great introduction to Vinyasa Yoga because throughout the entire video, he is constantly giving tips about form and technique. He also explains modifications for poses, so they're great for beginners. Advanced yoga poses are also included, so these videos are great for experienced yoginis as well.

I just love Baron's down-to-earth attitude, and his creative sequencing. If you can't make it to a class, or want to know more about body alignment and technique, the Journey into Power DVDs are the next best thing.

Move It at Home: the Bollywood Dance Workout

FitSugar — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 08:45:00 -0700

I love Bollywood music and I love dancing so I was super excited to try the Bollywood Dance Workout that I found on the Acacia website. I have to say it was pretty fun and it got me moving, though the program and instruction are fairly loose. There's not a lot of explanation of the movements or the routine. Unencumbered by details of the dance, you start moving and you stay moving. The entire DVD builds up to a free form dance jam at the end of the 50ish minute workout. You learned the moves now you get to put them to practice.

The Bollywood Dance Workout is playful and it is fun, exactly what a dance workout should be. Since you are dancing in the privacy of your own living room there is no one to mock you if you look silly, except maybe your cat or dog.

The workout is more in the high impact aerobic vein than anything I have done recently and if you have knee issues this might not be for you. There is a lot of deep knee bending and squats in the dance portion. The DVD does include a nice warm-up and a yoga inspired cool down, though.

This DVD definitely inspired me to dance and I want to see if I can find some classes on Indian Dance in my area, or maybe even a Bollywood style exercise class. If you are looking to get more world dance moves into your boogie vocabulary, you should check this DVD out.

Buy it from Acacia for $14.99. Try it before you buy and put it on your Netflix queue.

Move it at Home: David Swenson's Ashtanga Yoga - Second and Third Series

FitSugar — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 11:00:00 -0700

You know how much I love David Swenson's Ashtanga Yoga First Series DVD, but I love his Second and Third Series DVD even more.

Many Ashtanga yoga teachers have made First Series videos, but it's tough to find a video that explains Second Series.

David Swenson takes you through this ancient and challenging series of yoga poses. While First Series involves tons of variations on forward bends that really work the back of your body, Second Series involves backbends that stretch and strengthen the front of your body. You'll also do hip openers and balancing poses like forearm stand. He moves slowly, explaining what each pose is called, the health benefits they offer, and modifications if you need them.

It can be tough to find a Second Series class at a yoga studio, so this DVD can give you a wonderful taste of the entire Series. You can practice along with David, and learn at your own pace. As you learn how to do each of the poses, and memorize the order, you'll be able to lead yourself.

This video also includes the complete Third Series. Most of these poses are extremely advanced, but there's no reason why you can't try them out. It's inspirational to watch David and see what a body is capable of doing through many years of practicing yoga.

Fit's Tips: The fact that Second and Third Series involve such challenging poses is what makes them so much fun. I'm a firm believer in trying every pose because you never know what your body can do unless you give it a try. Order the DVD for $24.95 and you'll be standing on your head in no time.

DVD: Dancing with the Stars Cardio Dance

FitSugar — Tue, 27 Mar 2007 15:45:00 -0700

Now that Dancing with the Stars is back in full effect, I have taken notice to how toned everyone seems to be as the show evolves.

Of course, dancing is known for burning major calories but it's not something we can just teach ourselves. The Dancing with the Stars Cardio Dance DVD ($11.89) features three of the show's pro-dancers Ashly, Kym and Maksim. You'll learn four choreographed dance routines (Cha-Cha, Samba, Paso Doble, and Jive) featuring some of the moves we've seen Stacey Keibler and Mario Lopez perform. Don't have a partner willing to do it with you? No worries as the dances are meant to be done without a partner. There is a bonus freestyle routine at the end that will test your new dance skills. You'll be sure to have fun while burning calories -- What's better than that?

You can do it in the comfort of your own home so that even if you don't dance like a star behind closed doors, you can look like one once the doors open. Buy it from Amazon.com.

Miss last week's episode of Dancing with the Stars? Check out Buzz's Buzz Reel.

Move it at Home: Baron Baptiste - Soul of Strength

FitSugar — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 10:15:00 -0800

Baron Baptiste is a well-known Power Vinyasa yoga instructor with studios in Cambridge, Brookline, and Boston, MA. He made one of my favorite yoga DVDs - Soul of Strength. It was filmed LIVE at his studio during one of his yoga classes.

Taking a yoga class is an amazing experience, feeling the energy of the group, it's really motivating. Sometimes doing a video at home can be really boring, but this DVD allows you to feel like you're part of the class.

This video shows at least 30 people of all levels and ages, so you can see how poses look on many different bodies. Baron starts off slow and then builds on the flow sequence. He gives options for beginners, and also explains how to take poses further if you are a more experienced practitioner.

The emphasis isn't on doing the poses "correctly." The important thing is to breathe and feel the sensations in your body, and to calm your mind. You want to focus your energy inward to heal and expand your heart. He encourages you to challenge yourself, but to first take care of yourself.

What I love about this video is that you can watch how he walks around and adjusts people in poses. He also gives verbal instructions like "pull your left hip back," and "press your chest towards your thighs," so you can learn to self-adjust yourself in these poses.

Baron is very down-to-earth, loving, and intense, and so is this vinyasa practice. I definitely recommend this DVD to people who already love yoga and to beginners. I especially recommend this DVD to people who think that yoga is boring and easy, because Baron will definitely kick your butt.

Get this DVD through Amazon for $9.98.

Move It at Home: Shiva Rea - Fluid Power - Vinyasa Flow Yoga

FitSugar — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 13:00:00 -0800

Looking for a yoga DVD that's actually good? Then you must check out Shiva Rea's newest program Fluid Power - Vinyasa Flow Yoga. Shiva Rea is one of the most inspirational yoga teachers out there, full of energy and kindness.
Moving with natural flow, Rea’s completely original yoga style enhances vitality, agility, and creativity while building strength and flexibility. Take it from me, you won't get bored of the DVD.

The DVD contains many sections, and her "yoga matrix" allows you to customize your practice by choosing which ones you want to do. You can also choose from one of the six pre-set practices from basic to advanced, or meditative to energetic.

Filmed at the White Sands National Park, the breathtaking scenery and the unique music make this video both beautiful and soothing. Shiva Rea's dynamic movements and flow of yoga poses make it challenging and fun.

Her flow begins by warming you up with one pose and then gradually adds poses until you are performing a fluid and graceful yoga dance. I can't recommend this DVD enough. Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

Move it at Home: David Swenson's Ashtanga Yoga: First Series

FitSugar — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 14:00:00 -0800

David Swenson is an incredibly well-known yoga instructor and practitioner. He began practicing when he was 13 and was introduced to Ashtanga at 19 by David Williams and Nancy Gilgoff (also very well known). Plus he studied with K. Pattabhi Jois, the master of Ashtanga.

His DVD, Ashtanga Yoga: First Series, available through Amazon for $24.95, is wonderful whether you are first learning or have been practicing for years.

There's a 30 minute intro explaining the foundations of the practice. Immediately following is the complete fully guided First Series, in the traditional flowing rhythm essential to Ashtanga Yoga. Ending with a guided deep relaxation, the series is about 1 1/2 hours long.

David's delivery of the basic principles is clear and down-to-earth. It's easy to follow along, and I love that he offers modifications so all levels of yogis will be able to follow along.

I definitely recommend this video if you want to learn First Series, or if you've already fallen in love with it. It's challenging both physically and mentally, yet very rewarding.

Move it at Home: Seane Corn - Vinyasa Flow Yoga

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 11:17:04 -0800

Seane Corn is one of the most amazing yoga instructors to work with. If you can take a workshop with her, I highly recommend it - it'll change your life.

I was so excited to try out her DVD, Vinyasa Flow Yoga - Uniting Movement and Breath, when it came out, so I could have her amazing energy and encouragement right there in my living room whenever I wanted it.

This is the poetic intro at the beginning of the video, and it's the most beautiful and passionate explanation of yoga I have ever heard. If it doesn't inspire you to get on your mat, I don't know what will.

Want to find out more about this DVD? Then

Move It at Home: Denise Austin - Shrink Your Female Fat Zones

FitSugar — Fri, 15 Dec 2006 10:06:35 -0800

I don't know if Denise Austin is a powerhouse or an exercise fiend on crack. Nevertheless, I have got to hand it to her - she really keeps you moving. There is something about her manic manner that is equal parts frightening and entertaining. My theory is to use whatever means necessary to keep the DVD on the screen and your body moving.

At the end of this 40 minute work out you really feel like you have worked your female fat zones (arms, back, abs, hips and backside) and you know for certain where you are going to be sore. The work out moves quickly between body parts, so it is hard to get bored with it even with multiple viewings. I believe her mantra might just be "You will have the sexy looking arms you always wanted" since she says the phrase repeatedly through out the work out. Her optimism and over the top positive energy are encouraging and almost make up for the boring unmotivational music.

My one serious complaint is that at least half of the work out relies heavily on exercises using a physio ball. For many of the exercises there really aren't variations you can do without a ball. You will also need 5 to 8 pound hand weights. Boy does Denise come up with some great things to do with them.

Try it before you buy it and put it on your Netflix queue. Or buy it from from Amazon for $9.99.

Move It at Home: The Bar Method Body - Fat Free DVD

FitSugar — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 10:34:38 -0800

The Bar Method is a great way to sculpt your body without lifting weights. Since it is quick paced you get a bit of an aerobic workout too. The class locations are limited to California and Connecticut, so for everyone else there are DVDs.

The Bar Method Body - Fat Free DVD is a 40-ish minute work out that really challenges your muscles with simple, small motions. It is called The Bar Method since you need to hold onto something while performing some of the exercises - kind of like holding a ballet barre. The name makes sense since Burr Leonard, founder of The Bar Method Studios, modified the routine of Lotte Burke, an English ballerina. Leonard herself leads you through the class and she is a walking testimonial as she is in her late 50s and still looking fabulous. Oddly enough she reminds me of Kitty from That 70s Show which is entertaining in and of itself.

The exercises are rather simple and there are many repetitions of each one so you get the hang of it quickly. Keep your remote close by, because on the 3rd or 4th viewing you are going to want to fast forward through the descriptions. The routine focuses on the back side - really working the booty and the hamstrings and the abdominal work is great too. There is also a lot of luxurious stretching.

I like that Leonard tells you to use simple household items like a chair or a throw pillow and there is no agenda to sell you props.

If you want to try it before you buy it, then put it on your NetFlix queue or just purchase it here for $18.99.