YogaWorks Fit Abs is divided into two sections plus an introductory Learning Guide for beginners. If you are unfamiliar with yoga basics, I strongly recommend starting with the 15-minute Learning Guide.

The disappointingly brief "Fit Abs" section surprisingly lasts a mere 10 minutes. Wouldn't you think they would name the video after the longer, more substantial part of the workout? Well they didn't because the longer, more substantial 40-minute Core Yoga Flow workout that follows is filled with moves that surprisingly (again) barely even address the midsection. When paired with the Learning Guide, the Core Yoga Flow would make a nice Beginner's Introduction to Yoga Basics video. But marketed as an abs workout, this video falls short.

As a somewhat intermediate practitioner of yoga, I can safely say that this is not a video for anyone with any knowledge of yoga, as it will bore you to tears. For those who couldn't care less about yoga and just bought this DVD for "fit abs", you, too, will be sorely disappointed with the lack of attention paid to the core.

Overall, YogaWorks Fit Abs would serve as a mediocre beginner's introduction to the physical practice of yoga but will undoubtedly fail at sculpting a sexy six-pack.

Equipment Needed

Even if you plan to practice on carpet, you will still want to use a yoga or pilates mat (don't fret, they're the same thing) to keep your hands and feet from sliding. Beginners will benefit from the use of a yoga block and strap that are shown in the modified versions of moves in Core Yoga Flow section of the video. These can be found at most sports stores.

Effectiveness

As an abs workout, this video is in no way effective. The first 10-minute Fit Abs series moved through primarily very basic core exercises that had little to do with yoga. Furthermore, the instructor moves too quickly through each set making it difficult to "move with your breath"--entering and exiting poses on an inhale or exhale--as is standard in any yoga class. Perhaps had she slowed down, explained the proper positioning and included more yoga poses, this introduction would have been more worthwhile. Also, I could have done without her describing anything involving exercise as "delicious."

The second section--Core Yoga Flow--is slightly less useless but equally ineffective in targeting the abs. I was surprised to see the inclusion of only three of the countless yoga moves I have practiced in class that aggressively target and tone the midsection. The three used in the video are Utkatasana (chair pose) with a twist, Trikonasana (triangle pose) and Navasana (boat pose). However, none of these three poses is addressed in the Learning Guide. And while it can be argued that all yoga poses engage the abs when paired with the proper breathing style, Yoga Works Fit Abs does not teach you how to do that so it kind of makes you wonder why they didn't throw in more abs moves.

Safety

As with any exercise program, you are instructed to consult with a physician before using this video. Beyond that, I would say to be aware of your body's limits especially when balancing or stretching, which you'll see more of in the Core Yoga Flow section. Thankfully, the second section features a cast member who shows modifications for each move. Keep an eye on her for slight changes to the postures that will make them more manageable.

It should also be noted that yoga is a difficult practice to learn using a video, as your face is often pointed away from the screen as you move through different poses. Be careful craning your neck back around to see the screen. This will be less of an issue as you become more comfortable with the poses and sequence.

Cast/Instructor

The Fit Abs section is taught by Jessie Schein, Core Yoga Flow by Billy Asad, and the Learning Guide by Patti Asad. Both workouts include 6 fitness models/actors (1 token male in each group) in the background who can safely be assumed to be other YogaWorks teachers and/or students.

Music

Unlike most workouts, yoga does not rely heavily on music to dictate the pace of the exercise. So don't expect any thumping beats or "Five! Six! Seven! Eight!" call outs. The music in each section of the YogaWorks Fit Abs video can best be described as background music suitable for a yoga class. Sorry, but that's all it is. With the teachers talking, you won't notice the unobtrusive music anyway.

Aspect Ratio

YogaWorks Fit Abs is presented in full screen and looks fine.

Set

The set is clean and simple, designed (I assume) to look like one of YogaWorks' 24 studios throughout New York and California.

Negatives

In a nutshell, this is an abs workout video with minimal abs work, leaving much to be desired by eager practitioners hoping for that familiar pang of discomfort that accompanies a cough or sneeze the day after a killer core workout. Had they dropped the 10-minute Fit Abs intro and just marketed this as a beginner's introduction to yoga with the informative Learning Guide and 40-minute Core Yoga Flow series, I may have been less irritated. But in my opinion, if you're going to call your video "Fit Abs" you had better give me some moves to achieve them.

Conclusion

I would not purchase this video or recommend it to others. If you want an abs video, get an abs video. If you want a yoga video, get a yoga video. You'll find that a good yoga class or video will attack your abs in ways you never thought possible. This abs-yoga combo, though, is unfortunately not worth your time.

Katie