Jill Miller - Coregeous: A Strong Core a Beautiful You

In the saturated universe of core-based videos, "Coregeous" is a real breath of fresh air - an exceptional example of the potential to cover new territory. Jill Miller (whom I affectionately refer to as "Jiller" among my fellow yoga teachers) has worked a DVD miracle by expertly presenting the principles of physical fitness training with an authentically yogic sensibility. It's like Buns of Steel meets Mula Bandha (hmmm... or something like that...). The 2 disciplines of "yoga" and "fitness" can sometimes be at odds with one another when it comes to their theoretical underpinnings - like oil and water, fitness tells us "no pain, no gain", and yoga says, "be the love." But, Miller's unique method of physical conditioning - called "Yoga Tune-Up" - combines numerous aspects from multiple systems in a highly accessible and engaging manner. Her programs always include elements of innovative strength training and neuromuscular conditioning; authentic yoga practices, principles and techniques; self-massage therapy for deep-tissue release; a playful and curious attitude; and a genuine sense of humor. All of this (and more!) blend together into a very fun - and very challenging! - exercise potpourri, which distinctly elevates all of her programs above the typical standard for home workout routines. And never has this been more true than with "Coregeous." What's most impressive about this particular video is that Miller has managed to merge these two worlds without dumbing down, sacrificing, or diluting the bold intention of either. On the fitness side of things, there's certainly plenty of intensity - for those seeking a good butt-kicking workout, you'll find it, particularly in the "Get COREgeous" segment. Here, you can expect to creatively utilize a stability ball to max out both your "shoulder core" (accessing the often over-looked, but essential, serratus anterior) and your abdominal core, all while training these muscle groups to collectively participate in integrative functionality. On the yoga end of things, this program provides all of the nuanced intelligence, awareness, skillfulness, and integrity you'd expect from a master teacher. Yoga teachers and seasoned students whose practices have transcended the strictly physical realm of "sweat, burn, stretch, repeat," will rejoice to find a core routine that *finally* includes anatomical intelligence, intuitive sequencing, and a respectful regard for the subtleties and intricacies innate to this region of the body. A few highlights from the DVD include:* breath awareness and a mindful consideration of the muscles involved in respiration;* skillful, clear, precise, and understandable instruction; Miller has a serious aptitude for colorful and clever language when describing anatomy and movement;* brilliant use of props, which truly makes new core experiences available in original and captivating ways;* all-levels of home exerciser are carefully accounted for - from tighter beginners, to more limber adepts, Miller provides information, adaptations, and accessible options to suit multiple levels of ability/facility. A piece of advice to those who purchase the video: Begin at the end. Go straight to the bottom of the menu and select, "Message from Jill" within the "Specialty Sequences". Why begin at the end? Because her lovely words - so full of wisdom and compassion - capture the caliber of "core" work Miller is advocating. She tells us: "Being 'coregeous' is not about an external aesthetic. If you really work deeply, consciously, and precisely inside the layers of your abdomen, you will re-shape it into your most efficient native physique. If you are willing to connect, and make peace with your gutts, you'll truly re-define yourself from the inside out." As a yogi first, a yoga teacher second, and a sweat-enthusiast third, this sort of approach is the ONLY one that resonates with me anymore. Truly meaningful transformation has nothing to do with calories burned, inches lost, numbers on the scale, or the size of your jeans. Miller knows this, and she teaches core work from this perspective. What a joy - what a relief! - to hear this attitude included on a fitness video! If you're a looking for a comprehensive core program with real yogic integrity THIS IS IT.

As an RYT, I wanted to love it. In fact, until receiving the DVD I was sure I wanted to train with Jill. But... although this DVD has a lot of creative, functional exercises for transforming core strength, I simply can't tolerate her chirpy demeanor, cheesy language, and the way she over-simplifies her instruction as though her audience has no clue they even have abdominal muscles, much less how those muscles function. So while I appreciated the content, I can't use the DVD as a workout. I watched it a few times, tried the exercises, made some notes, then put it back on the shelf where it will likely remain. Also, I purchased a set of two of her small her Coregeous therapy balls for a whopping $16.00, then found the EXACT same balls sans logo, at a dollar store for you guessed it, one dollar each. You also need to purchase her medium size soft Coregeous ball for this DVD, not cheap either. Fortunately I had one already that came free with a $10 pilates DVD. So, all in all, good content, but overpriced and with an annoying instructor. Sorry Jill Miller.

As a new-ish mother, my neck and shoulders (and back!) are always a bit sore and tired from slumping over while nursing as well as from carrying the baby and heavy diaper bag. I bought this DVD to help me get my core strong and aligned again. (Note: this is NOT designed for post-partum moms since Miller does not go into special issues that moms face, like Diastasis Recti. I did the Lindsay Brin videos for months to heal mine.)Wow, are the ab workouts (well, I've only done one--Get COREganized--and I was shaking from the first exercise) ever tough! Even attempting the first workout makes me feel taller and leaner. But Core RE-form, with its massage using the Yoga Tune-Up balls or tennis balls, feels so awesome to do and has helped my chronic aches and pains, was well worth the money of the DVD alone. It's easy to do right before bed since this segment clocks in at slightly over 10 minutes (a little less if you skip the intro).

This is a challenging workout. Definitely not for beginners. I loved the first part when you use the tune up balls to massage. I wish I'd just bought one of her DVDs that just focuses on using the tune up balls and forget the abs. The tune up ball part was so relaxing and it felt great!

Just started this yesterday and half-assed the beginning exercises the best I could. I got back to work and went to pick something up off the floor and realized I could touch my toes for the first time since a car accident 9 months ago! Of course I can't touch my toes this morning (or really move at all for that matter) but I am exited to keep working on this and get some mobility and core back!

Only problem is the quality of the dvd's. They skip in funny places or don't play certain sections (the 3 sets I ordered all have this same problem) but the teaching is excellent.

Love it!! I find Jill's DVD to be a refreshing change to the countless ab and pilates DVDs. I like that she starts off the workout with a back massage, it really makes a difference in your posture. Jill is an excellent instructor and this is my favorite DVD(I own most of her collection). Hope to see more amazing DVD's from her in the future.

Too hard for me (yet). I prefer Gary Kraftsow's Viniyogatherapy for Lowback, Sacrum and Hips.

I use the YogaTune Up Balls with the quick fix DVDs and pain and aches have diminished considerably (nearly vanished after 3 weeks of daily use). I have now incorporated this DVD and I really like it. It is not the usual abs DVD, it is unique. There are 4 workouts that require some props + 3 bonuses.1) CORE-REFORM (14.20)This requires the use of YTU balls and a mat. The exercises help massaging the main areas that need to be ready for the core work in the subsequent workouts. The explanations are very clear and Jill shows how the balls have to be placed by showing the exercise through a glass. This workout can be used as a warm up for the other ones. This is very relaxing and your upper/lower back will thank you!2) CORE-GANIZED (17.50)It requires the use of a block (or a thick book).The exercises are basically all on the floor and you will have to balance on the brick. The main one revolve around the concept of the magician assistant. They are very effective and tough. It looks like it is only 20 minutes but it does work!It is better if you familiarise with the tubular core section (bonus) before embarking in this section.3) IN-COREPORATE (19.50)You would require a soft ball (a pilates one is great).You need to warm up before this and do not attempt the exercises after having eaten (you will feel sick!). The exercises are all on the floor and revolve around massaging the abdominals in depth with the use of the small squishy ball. Advisable to familiarise yourself with the abdominal massage bonus section.4) COREGEOUS (19.00)This is an advanced workout that requires lots of balance and strength in the core area (better to attempt this when you are comfortable with the previous workouts). You need a stability ball. This is based on planks and walking planks. Totally innovative exercises on how to maximise the use of a stability ball.BONUS-- tubular core activation (5.15)- abdominal massage with small squishy ball (8.20)- Nauli - this is a very advance abdominal/core exercise that requires the ability to control the breath and muscles. It requires a lot of practice!Overall I really like this DVD. Jill Miller's style is great, very down to earth, she explains what to do in detail and the reason for certain exercises. Very innovative approach, I have not heard any idiotic comment like get ripped or shred. Looks like a very slow relaxing workout, but it is not! I am going to look into the YTU at home program next.

Jill Miller is the ideal person to help with my body goals. I've never been into exercise, but decided to try this work out after seeing a friend transformed by this practice, and wow, it was the best move (haha!) that I'd done in ages! The thing about these exercises is that they work out muscles you don't normally work out, and with the balls it feels like you're getting a full body massage so when you're doing it's like you've worked out but you also just stepped out in a spa. Win-win. :)

Excellent product, delivered promptly.

Jill Miller has created an intelligent core workout here. Her wordplay may be silly, but her use of anatomical terms is spot on. This gradated practice takes the participant safely through exercises designed to create a strong yet supple core. This is not about "washboard abs" - it is a comprehensive approach to cultivating strength and flexibility in the entire core. Along the way you will pick up enlightening information about the anatomy of the torso. This latest offering in Miller's "Yoga Link" series will prove an essential component to any balanced fitness protocol.