As usual thoroughly reviewed by other members, I just want to chime in on my impressions.

I really like this DVD but this isn't a vigorous workout if you are a regular exerciser. It's more suited to your off days or on days when you want good but not overwhelming cardio to pair with weights or pilates. I'm not sure if it's suited to people starting out because I'm guessing they would be unfamiliar with some of the yoga poses like Warrior II and Reverse Warrior and some of the ballet terminology like releve and port de bras and might find it frustrating. I don't want to discourage anyone though. If the jargon (which you certainly can catch onto) doesn't bother you, this is a workout that will leave you feeling peaceful and graceful and elevate your heart rate.

If you are returning to working out after an injury, it's fantastic. There is minimal high impact and it's not really that high (no jacks or plyometrics) and easy to adjust.

As others have said, Trudie just works out along with James D'Silva who is the instructor. He does teach by voice-over, which bothered some reviewers but I didn't mind. D'Silva obviously has ballet training and is mad graceful. I really enjoy watching him and he has a lovely British accent.

The music is, naturally, provided by Sting.

Depending on how familiar you are with the moves, you might have to do this DVD more than once to get comfortable with it. There is little to no explanation or cuing in advance. I don't claim to be an expert by any means but I've done yoga for 10 years and if you are familiar with it, you won't have any problems. The moves are innovative and fun. Most of the combinations I can't describe but one he does frequently is Warrior II, Reverse Warrior, Extended Side Angle, back to Warrior II, switch sides. A little like a fusion of vinyasa and dance--you are constantly moving.

You don't need much floor room except for the Warrior Dance segment which seems to be a sort of box step but I can't really get the hang of it. There is a tutorial included that will help with some of the more basic moves. Still not working for me and the Warrior Dance but I can anticipate where they will end up and fake it, if that makes sense.

You do need enough room to the front, side and back to do leg extensions. To get the most out of all the leg lifts, stand up straight and engage your core (I learned this from Ellen Barrett. That's probably a no-brainer to most people but I'm a bad sloucher.)

I like this because you can do it barefoot. I don't have a foam roller so I haven't done that part of the DVD. I didn't realize when I bought it I was missing some equipment. I've tried to do it with a regular mat but you need the roller.

Instructor Comments:
D'Silva has a peaceful presence and is very graceful. He clearly has training in and loves what he does. I want to get more of his workouts, maybe the new Pure Sculpt DVD.

vanessakm