The Method: Dynamic Firming and Flexing

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An hour’s worth of yoga, dance and Pilates-based exercises and stretches, divided into three separate segments.

Anyone in good health who wants to be more flexible. Prior yoga and/or Pilates experience isn’t necessary. Beginners will probably get the most from this video. An exercise band is suggested.

The Method series of videos always offer something a little outside of the norm. This eclectic series of exercises and stretches are accompanied by a live harpist and percussionist. The moves are graceful but non-intimidating — even those with no dance, Yoga or Pilates experience whatsoever will have no difficulty following this tape. Lakey Evans offers thorough, clearly understood instructions. The first, 16-minute segment includes a great series of neck stretches, flowing, basic Sun Salutations, and a full body stretch. Although the second, 23-minute segment is supposed to be for the upper body, it’s really another whole-body stretch routine, including the back, legs and arms. A good portion of it involves the legs, especially the hamstrings. There’s a lot of good flexibility work. An exercise band is used for some of the stretches. The final, 21-minute segment says it’s for the lower body, and this time that’s correct — the exercises here primarily work on the muscles and joints from the hip flexors on down. Again, the exercise band is briefly brought out. This is a low-key video, geared more towards flexibility than towards toning. It’s a nice alternative for those who want a change from their usual Yoga routine — it’s less challenging than a lot of class-style Yoga tapes, but more active than a mere relaxation tape.