IGX

My wife and I have had this DVD since last year and it's been our primary yoga source since we got it.

The main feature is the "Yoga Matrix" that allows you to sequence any of the routines in any order. Most of the segments are 5-15 minutes in length and focus on one particular family of poses.

Rea's style is primarily Ashtanga-derived (the basic standing sequences are variations of the Ashtanga primary and secondary series), but she includes segments on a number of other poses. My wife and I are particularly fond of the forward bends and twists segment, focusing on hip opening, spinal twisting, and the hamstrings. There are (if I remember right) four sun salutation variations, three longer standing flows, three short back-bending sequences, the seated bends and twists, and short intros to handstand, forearmstand, and shoulderstand. Altogether, a pretty complete DVD, and the Yoga Matrix allows you to program only the parts you want.

Most of the DVD is accessible, but some of the poses are intermediate level. The standing flows include some basic arm balancing that I can do, but not at the same pace as the DVD. There are also some seated poses that work into more advanced variations, like holding the leg behind the shoulder. The inversions would also be intermediate for most people.

Rea is kind of a goofball and has a tendency to throw out weird New-Agey phrases that don't really mean anything, like, "find your intelligent edge." She also looks like Yar from Star Trek. If either of those things bothers you, stay away.

Probably not a good choice for real beginners, or those that just want a basic follow along practice, like YRG. Likewise, if you want real traditional Ashtanga you'll have to look elsewhere. It is however, a pretty good one-stop DVD with a wide breadth of material and the useful ability to sequence your own routines.

I mentioned to Tom Furman before about this dvd and the matrix. I think most dvd's relating to working out should have a matrix. It not only lets you choose the segments/exercises to view, but also the order in which they play. I only wish I could have gotten a better view of the tattoo on her ass; she appears to be in very good shape.