That said, I am having some trouble with early carpal tunnel pain from my excessive computer habit (desk job by day + blogger and DVD reviewer by night = disaster) and found that the slow pace of this routine gave me a chance to really focus on stretching what needed to be stretched. Unfortunately, a couple of fantastic wrist stretches are not enough to make me recommend this as a quality yoga DVD. Skip it and try their Body Slim routine instead. There are plenty of modifications that make that more advanced series appropriate for all levels.

Equipment Needed
You'll need a mat or non-slip surface. Beginners may want a yoga block and strap to modify moves.

Effectiveness
If you focus and really breathe into these moves, you'll feel a great stretch. However, the slow pace will leave your mind wandering and since yoga is nothing without mental focus, you won't get much out of it. The ironic thing about this beginner routine is that I think it would take an advanced practitioner of yoga to pay attention and stay focused the entire time. Conundrum!

Safety
Watch Jessie on the right side of the screen for modifications. Never stretch to the point of pain.

Cast/Instructor
This class is led by Yogaworks instructor, Patti, and she's joined by other teachers from the studio.

Patti gives great instruction and her verbal cues are easy to follow. She'll explain the tiniest modification in, say, hip placement and it changes the pose entirely.

Music
Mellow studio music.

Set
The set appears to be a mock Yogaworks studio complete with cubbies for students' gear.

Negatives
Because the mental side of yoga is the most difficult element to master, I consider a slow quiet class to be more for advanced practitioners who can stay focused. I think that anyone new to yoga trying this video for the first time would feel bored, restless and unaccomplished at the end (if they make it that far).

Conclusion
Yogaworks is a quality studio with quality instructors and there is nothing fundamentally wrong with this DVD. However, I really think that beginners should start with something more upbeat, exciting, engaging and challenging to keep them coming back for more. As a workout DVD, this is a flop. It would be good for someone recovering from an injury, though.

Katie