Shape: Long, Lean and Strong(Current)
2006
What is it?
A 26-minute mind-body routine that’s mostly Yoga, with a few minutes of Pilates moves at the end. There’s also a 6-minute “bonus” stretch and relaxation routine. Teri Hanson instructs.
Who is it for?
Advanced beginners — although the moves are not difficult, this workout is a fast-paced flow routine, so you need to be familiar with proper form; you won’t have time to learn it here. You will need a mat, a strap,
a block,
and a couple of comfy pillows.
a block,
and a couple of comfy pillows.
What to expect:This mostly-Yoga routine builds heat through series of flowing moves. It’s fast-paced — you change moves with each breath — so you need to have some Yoga experience to keep up. That said, the workout isn’t too difficult; most advanced beginners will be able to practice the moves seamlessly after just a couple of run-throughs. Instructor Teri Hanson takes you through Sun Salutations and a Warrior sequence (she calls it “Dancing Warrior”), and offers a balance challenge with Dancing Shiva. The description on the DVD box claims that the floorwork is flexibility based; in reality it’s mostly a Pilates-based, core-building routine. Hanson handles both the Yoga and Pilates instruction well with good cues and form. In addition to the main, 26-minute routine, there’s also a relaxing 6-minute “bonus” session that has the flexibility work you may have been looking for after reading the cover description. You’ll want a couple of pillows for this segment, and most exercisers will need a strap for the hamstring section. A block is optional, depending on your ability. This is a nice routine when you’re a little bit short on time but you want a Yoga/ mind-body-type routine that makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something good for yourself.
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