Element: Yoga for Weight Loss [DVD]

Unfortunately, I cannot review this program from the perspective of a true yoga expert...honestly, when I bought this DVD, I was just interested in adding some new life to my old workout routine. I was also interested in learning about yoga, rather than the "yoga-based" workouts that I'd done in the past, but that still came second on the priority list. Anyway, I am absolutely blown away by Element: Yoga for Weight Loss! This program has now taken the place of all other DVDs that were once in my rotation (although I still do a separate cardio routine). The instructor is fantastically knowledgeable and encouraging and gives prompts right on time. The workout is challenging and SO rewarding; it is truly a full-body blast. Also, there are enough modifications presented that I feel as though I have plenty of room to grow with this routine. Yoga for Weight Loss is something that I actually look forward to doing everyday--I seriously can't wait to do it!Now, I am a mom of four little boys, so I really have to MAKE THE TIME to work out (no snacks for 45 minutes, people, don't even ask--that's the rule!), but my kids really love this routine, too. They are always trying to keep up, which makes for great comedy--but more importantly, it makes me feel good to see them taking an interest in such a wonderful practice. As for results, after one month of performing this workout for an average of 4 times a week, I can see some positive changes in my body; I've noticed some increased muscle definition and I am slowly seeing an increase in my flexibility, but--and I never thought I'd say this due to my inclination to work out for vanity's sake--what is more impressive to me is how I FEEL now. I am so much more relaxed in my daily life. Now that I have been so inspired by this practice, I have started to read up on the tradition of yoga so that I can hopefully grow and truly appreciate the history and methodology in its entirety; I realize even scratching the surface is a lofty goal, but I'm going to have a go at it! What more can I say, go ahead and experience this now, you have everything to gain!

A rank beginner, both in yoga and in exercise videos, this DVD gave me exactly what I expected and needed.I have attended 16 or so yoga classes prior to this video, so I at least knew some of the moves. A few were new to me. But, the video covered them in enough detail to do them even if you did not.I found the best way to approach using a video, as this was my first time, was to watch the video through once and then the second time, do the routines. Initially it was fast, but later when you know the routines, it is the perfect length.One issue I had is with the breathing. The duration between breaths that the instructor said to take and what I needed to take, was not in sync. Maybe when I get better, I won't be gasping quite so much. Not sure if this is a common thing or not. Suspect it is more of a conditioning thing.I'm an overweight woman in my 50s and to go from downward dog to warrier pose, is not as gracefully as the yoga instructor shows. However, I get there my way and this video works for me. I was drenched halfway through and had to towel my face off. Anyone that does not think yoga is not strenuous has not done it. The chair, table and superman pose and the warrior dance (variations on the warrior poses), are one heck of a work out.Having read complaints about the intro, I don't get the big deal. Subsequent plays did not even bring it up.Can't tell you yet if you lose weight from this, but after I use it awhile I will repost.AN UPDATE:Having purchased even more videos, this one really stands out. It is one complete workout that I can do. As I said I am overweight. I also, have issues with my knees and really rigid ankles and feet, but, I can do all of this workout. I can't say that about other workouts. There are some other beginner videos that have kneeling poses, or some more extreme poses (despite their beginner label) that I just can't do. Additionally, the pace is reasonable. She keeps you moving and working out. Some other videos had one convoluted pose after another, that though I have been through the video 2-3 times, I can't quite get, nor keep up with. This is a keeper and one heck of a workout.

The core of this workout is acceptable power yoga with the usual vinyasas--sun salutations and dancing warriors. It's fine for beginners with some yoga familiarity, has an acceptable flow, though there's little here I haven't seen in many other power yoga DVDs. Turner has a calm voice, gives some form pointers and cues well. I wouldn't recommend this to an absolute yoga beginner, but it might be all right for a first power style practice because the pace is slower than some.Every "Element" DVD I've seen has been a worthwhile product.I was annoyed though by Turner's introduction, that she teaches "celebrities," and is a "mind/body expert" holding a Master's degree in psychology. I can skip the ego display, thank you. Her affirmations, sprinkled throughout the practice (presumably evidence of this formidable mind/body expertise) were similarly juvenile to me. Anyway who claims herself a mind/body expert has just proven she isn't one.I wish video instructors would teach without talking down to their audience.