Yoga Conditioning for Weight Loss is part of the Gaiam series. The instructor, Suzanne Deason is an experienced yoga teacher. In this DVD, Deason combines a broad range of poses with breathing, body awareness and calm. After the practice, you will feel relaxed and energized.
What makes this DVD unique is the various work out levels. There is something here for all levels of fitness and flexibility. People who are experienced in yoga can choose the Complete Workout. This practice begins with a warm up sequence and breathing and then moves though a series of poses for conditioning the body, including standing poses, twists and forward bends.
There are other modifications for varying levels of practice. The slightly modified workout and partially modified workouts are for less experienced people. The fully modified practice is great for beginners or people who have tight hamstrings and hips.
The props used in the practices vary as well. In the Complete Workout, you just need a mat, but can also use a strap for the seated forward bend pose. The fully modified workout uses some props. If you have tight hamstrings and need props, a strap, blanket and blocks are used.
In all sections of the DVD there are several people using various modifications of the poses. In the Complete Workout, beginners can follow the modifications of the poses and adjust the practices as you continue in your yoga practice and gain flexibility and strength.
One word of caution if you are using the DVD for weight loss, it may not be enough to reach that goal; this is particularly true if you have a lot of weight to lose. This is not a vinyasa flow practice, which some believe is necessary if you are trying to lose weight with yoga alone. However, if you are using this with other forms of exercise, it will help.
While this DVD may not be enough to lose a significant amount of weight, it has a lot to offer. The practice is good for conditioning and toning the body. If you are looking for a practice to help you tone the entire body, this is a good choice to add to your collection.
The DVD offers several unique features in addition to the varying work out levels. A personal instructor option gives more detailed direction for moving in and out of the poses. In the complete workout, few instructions are given. Deason just cues when to move to the next pose and offers minimal instruction on exactly how to move from poses to pose. She does give tips on how to use the correct technique in each pose. In addition, the DVD comes with a nutrition guide with more information on weight loss and healthy eating.