media reviews

With a slew of new yoga DVDs hitting the shelves, it's hard to know which one is best for you.

TITLE: The Pleasure of Strength with Ana Forrest
BRIEF DESCRIPTION: This sixty-minute class guides intermediate practitioners through some of Forrest's signature sequences and exercises for a comprehensive full-body workout.
PROS: Your muscles will be shaking and tired after her long, standing sequence. Her easy-to-follow instructions enable you to follow along without having to watch her every move. The DVD also features a short 30-minute version of her class as well as Playful Partner Yoga, where she partners with her husband, Jonathan Bowra, doing daring double's yoga postures.
CONS: The lack of music makes it easy for your mind to wander off.
CONTACT/PRICE: www.forrestyoga.com, $20

TITLE: Mark Blanchard's Progressive Power Yoga-Sedona Series
BRIEF DESCRIPTION: This 5-DVD set provides the home practitioner with a varied and challenging workout. The first DVD in the set, The Foundation, leads you through some of Blanchard's key sequences, which are both powerful and athletic.
PROS: Challenging. This DVD will keep you interested and challenged no matter what your level. The beautiful Sedona setting provides a colorful backdrop for practitioners who are really practicing in their cramped living room.
CONS: His verbal instructions are difficult to follow without watching him. Make sure you set yourself up with a good viewing angle to ensure you're doing the postures and movements properly.
CONTACT/PRICE: www.progressivepoweryoga.com, 5-DVD set, $89.95

TITLE: Shiva Rea Yoga Trance Dance
BRIEF DESCRIPTION: This interactive yoga/dance DVD allows a customizable workout, featuring both high-energy and meditative options.
PROS: Shiva has a way to get you to groove. Close your eyes and listen to the pulsating drums or open your eyes and feel inspired by the White Sands National Park setting. In twenty minutes, its possible to get a great workout, while keeping a smile on your face.
CONS: You'll want a large space to really let yourself go. Could be a bit embarrassing if you have Peeping-Tom neighbors.
CONTACT/PRICE: www.acornmedia.com, $19.99

November/December 2006