Search - The New Method 20/20 Series: Integrated Yoga on DVD

Intriguing Fusion of Yoga, Dance and Pilates

Yoga Dad | 06/20/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I just did the two sessions of this Integrated Yoga program this morning. While I don't think it may be for everybody, I am giving it five stars because it fits the bill of what the Method/New Method programs deliver, that is a fusion of various elements of Yoga, Pilates and Dance (with different emphasis depending on the programs, sometimes only one or two of those elements are present).

The first session is an interesting blend of Yoga and some dance type moves. It was reasonably gentle and led by Lisa Wheeler. While I must admit it was not something I was very comfortable with, so many of the moves being unfamiliar, it is something that I am intrigued with. I feel as I get more familiar with the movements (particularly the third section of session one) then it will become much more enjoyable because I won't feel as lost.

The second session, led by Marjon Conteau, was an interesting blend of Yoga and Pilates. It is a very good session in that you get a nice stretch from the Yoga movements and then she focuses on Pilates movements, first with a Towel for assistance and then without a towel during a very thorough Pilates Stomach series. I opted to use a medium resistance flex band folded in half instead of a towel because I like the subtle give of the flex band rather than the rigidity of a towel, however that's just a personal preference.

While it's true that Jennifer Kries (featured on the cover) wasn't on either session, but the instructors here did a fine job. I am familiar w/ Lisa Wheeler from another New Method program that I have (Precision Abs)and I enjoy her in both programs. She's upbeat without being too perky.

I you like more of a fusion type workout, then you may really enjoy this program. If you are looking for a very straight ahead Yoga program then this probably will not be what you are looking for.

In my case, I have a very large Yoga and Pilates collection (over 120 programs between the two disciplines on DVD/VHS) so I am primarily looking for programs that don't fall into the traditional mode and the New Method programs fit this quite well.

Other of the Method (New Method) programs that I like are Pilates Target Specifics, Precision Abs and I also like the Standing Pilates Blend w/ Katalin Zamiar."

A good work out but NOT traditionally yoga

E. goodin | 09/05/2003

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This is not a typical yoga workout. It is very high paced and challenging. In fact I'm not sure what it is "Integrated" with.This is a good work out, but it is not separated into clear cut sections so that you can do twenty to forty minutes at a time. It all runs together. I was energized afterwards and my muscles had been worked. If you're looking for Jennifer Kries she is not in the video at all, just some other girl with too much hair spray."

Too much of a traditional workout

E. goodin | 06/25/2003

(1 out of 5 stars)

"I started doing yoga for the stretching and toning, but also for the serenity. I find many workout videos grating because of the amount of pep talk by the instructor, and this one falls into the same category. The overly peppy "It's left, and it's right and it's a stretch." What is this "it" they keep saying anyway? If you go for that high energy, high motivation type of workout, then this is good. Otherwise, forget it."

Really 2.5 stars, but no option

Trish | CA | 09/26/2006

(2 out of 5 stars)

"I own at least 50 DVD's and exercise at home 6 days a week, doing a yoga or Tai Chi workout daily. This workout was like a "Jack of all Trades" and didn't master anything, so I was left feeling like I had to exercise again. I did not like the flowing yoga as the first two times the instructor went through, it was extremly fast and so I had to stand a watch...I personally don't like that. I don't have to be able to complete a DVD the first time, but it should not be so complicated that you actually stop moving."