This workout blends classic non-weights toning moves (mostly for the lower body) with yoga poses and Pilates-type abs section. Yes, the participants wear shoes throughout the workout, which is certainly not traditional to either yoga or Pilates, but as the instructor Minna states at the beginning, the workout is supposed to be "a blend of east and west." I found the workout to be fun and different. Although I also have more traditional yoga tapes which I enjoy as well, this was a nice change of pace.

The tape begins with a lengthy (about 6 minutes) warm-up which includes some simple toning moves (eg, squats) combined with yoga stretches (eg, tree pose). The workout itself continues this pattern of doing classic toning moves with yoga stretches inbetween. For example, the first segment consists of squats and lunges followed by proud warrior; following this is a series of pli?s combined with tree pose. The toughest segment comes next: it consists of holding plank pose for an extended period, moving into downward dog, and doing a few yoga-style pushups (the only really upper body work in the entire workout). The Pilates-based section is fairly intense, and because Minna doesn't provide much instruction, I would advise those with no prior knowledge of Pilates to skip this part. Finally, Minna ends with a series of classic yoga stretches and twists.

Overall, I think this is a fun, different toning workout with a lower body emphasis that's appropriate for advanced beginners/intermediates, and as long as you are not expecting more traditional yoga and Pilates, you won't be disappointed by this tape.

Instructor Comments:
Minna is a pleasant instructor; she's motivating without being pushy. She and her three fellow exercisers really seem to enjoy the workout.

Beth