There is a common misconception among fitness enthusiasts that yoga does not provide cardio training or help with weight loss, but is only useful for toning and core strengthening. However, certain approaches to yoga practice are very helpful in setting a foundation for weight loss, while others, such as Power Yoga, provide aerobic workouts every bit as strenuous as other, more traditional cardio exercise.
Suzanne Deason’s Yoga Conditioning for Weight Loss, from Gaiam, offers a workout that helps provide strength and core training as well as breathing exercises and twists to help increase flexibility and expel toxins that tend to build up within the body during successful weight loss. While it does not provide a cardio or aerobic workout, it does help increase flexibility, reduce stress, and strengthen core muscles vital to maintaining overall health.
Beginner-Friendly but Thorough Workout
Deason’s approach to yoga is low-key overall, providing easy-to-understand guidance through sometimes complicated poses and sequences. Her narration focuses almost wholly on the physical aspects of yoga, avoiding the spiritual elements that can be off-putting to some. Best of all, the DVD provides three separate “tracks,” for beginner, intermediate, and more experienced practitioners. Separate sections of the workout can also be easily selected from the main menu, with the full sequence divided into breathing, standing poses, and floor poses. Another useful features allows more in-depth instruction on individual poses, very helpful for the beginner.
The full workout also appears as an option, which includes the advanced track along with suggested modification. Those familiar with this program as it was originally presented in VHS format will recognize this version.
Sticking with it Provides Results
The workout itself is demanding, particularly in the sequence of standing poses. At 45 minutes, it’s a bit long for those in search of a quick yoga fix before work, but it is also worth the time. Doing only a section of the workout at a time can address this, but the partial workout lacks the impact of the full sequence.
For those willing to take the time not only to take advantage of the full workout but to progress from beginning to advanced levels, this workout pays off with increased balance, muscle building in the legs and arms, and a stronger, steadier set of core muscles. It also provides a sense of lightness and well-being that will be familiar to anyone who has ventured seriously into a regular yoga practice. Beginners who would like to get a taste of yoga and how it works, as well as experienced practitioners looking for a mid-range workout will benefit greatly from this well-produced DVD.
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