This was my first introduction to yoga; I bought this video having absolutely NO prior yoga experience. Although it doesn't involve many traditional yoga poses, the exercises flow together in a way that is unique to yoga. When I first tried this tape, I wasn't quite sure when the warm-up ended and the "real" workout began--the transition was that smooth and gentle.

The workout begins in a seated position and focuses on breathing, then moves on to hands and knees for a back stretch (Cat pose). The majority of the workout is performed lying on your back, where you will do simple yet challenging leg extensions and twists to challenge the abdominal area. After a quick rise to a standing position, the workout returns to the floor to end with lying relaxation poses.

The moves become gradually more difficult, but I think that most beginners will be able to perform the majority of this workout. I believe that this workout has helped me to developed stronger abs (though I haven't seen the miracle-like results that other reviewers have mentioned). I would definitely recommend this tape for anyone looking to exercise their abs without doing crunches for a change.

Instructor Comments:
Rodney Yee is a wonderful instructor--he has a calming voice, his voiceover instructions are clear and precise, and he is not overly "new age-y" (although he does occasionally say things like "feel your abs be wide like the dunes").

Beth C (aka toaster)