(Good Times Entertainment)
2003
What is it?
A 45-minute Power Yoga routine led by Baron Baptiste. The routine is divided into three segments, each of which can be done on its own.
Who is it for?
Beginning to advanced beginning Power Yoga enthusiasts — keep in mind, however, that a couple of balance moves are challenging and Baptiste's instruction on proper form is minimal.
What to expect:
Perhaps Baron Baptiste's teaching style is not for everyone — he comes off more like a boyish Yoga coach than a traditional Yoga instructor, and you may even find it a bit absurd when he urgees you to "unleash the monster within." But the bottom line is that this is a very good beginning Power Yoga routine that deserves a spot on your shelf, and in your DVD player. The session is divided into three parts, any of which can stand on its own. The first session is a very basic, 20-minute round of Sun Salutations. Baptiste doesn't offer any variations, except for halfway through the routine when he starts you off on the left foot instead of the right. It's not the most scintillating of sessions, but it does get you warmed up quite nicely. The middle part consists of 15 minutes of standing poses — Triangle, the Warrior Poses and the like. Be warned that one of the first Asanas is a challenging balance pose — it actually gets a bit easier from there. The last, 10-minute segment focuses on floor poses that will make your abs burn - Shavasana will come as a welcome relief! You should already be familiar with your Asanas before attempting this workout because Baptiste offers encouraging words, but not a whole lot of instruction on form. However, you don't need to be a Power Yoga expert, either — this is, after all, a Level 1 routine. As a whole, it's a solid Power Yoga workout, but it can also be done in bits and pieces when you are stressed for time.