Search - Smart Start Yoga on DVD

I enjoyed it

A. Landers | 01/24/2010

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Although there are 'no props' as stated, you must access to a stable chair, one where your feet can comfortably touch the ground. It does need to be quite sturdy as there are some exercises where you push your body weight against it.



The first 30 minutes is all chair poses, guided by Rodney. This section focuses greatly on the shoulders, waist, back, and hips. For those like me who sit at the computer all day these are perfect. It felt amazing. These poses are not difficult and are rather gentle.



Colleen instructs for the second half. I felt her section could use longer calve leg stretches, but she does focus on balance and hips (like Rodney) quite nicely.



I've been looking for a Gaiam video that does not consist of a lot of weight bearing exercises, one that does not increase my heart rate. Instead, I was looking for an intro for gentle, relaxed stretches, something I can do before meditation. This does the job. After completing this video I just like to lay on the floor and meditate, it just relaxes me so. This video is also great for those who want to start stretching without going full on yoga. You'll become more flexible and have improved balance, but you won't increase your strength.



I would have given this 5 stars if this actually had a 'seated meditation session' as stated. In reality, it is more of a 3 minute conclusion. By the time you get into it, it's over. If they had tagged on 15-20 minutes of relaxing audio on the end (for those of us who do not want it to end) I would have easily given this 5 stars. Maritza's Meditation for Beginners is excellent for this, however.



The cues are sometimes a little early, but they are always very concise and never come too late. Also note that this was filmed in a studio. Gaiam has some of the best scenic videos out there - but this is not one of them. Expect to see some wallpaper of trees instead.



This is not one of those "do at your office desk" type of videos, for those who are curious. You'll be getting out of your seat and rotating around the chair quite a bit. But none of it is strenuous.



Hey, I'm glad I bought it.



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