Photo: amazon.com

Usually, when I do a beginner workout video, I feel a little like a fraud -- I'm not much of a newbie when it comes to most forms of exercise. However, I've never done Tai Chi in my life, so I think I was a perfect candidate for "Element: Tai Chi for Beginners."

"Tai Chi for Beginners" takes place in the same perfectly lovely setting as the other Element videos, which immediately put me at ease (I'm a sucker for a gorgeous view). And the instructor, Samuel Barnes (founder of the Tai Chi Works studio in Beverly Hills), has a strong, soothing voice that, like in the other videos, comes through in a voice over so as not to distract from the movements.

The video is broken into three sections, giving you the options for a short or long session. The first is Qi Gong, which focuses on your breath and energy flow. The other two are both Tai Chi, one giving you step-by-step instructions and the other putting the moves together in a moving meditation.

Level of Difficulty
As the title indicates, it is for beginners. The instructions are clear and, for any moves that provide a physical challenge, modifications are offered.

Next Day Soreness
None. It's just not that kind of workout.

Who's It For?
This video is geared toward those seeking true moving meditation. If you're interested in Tai Chi or Qi Gong, but are nervous about attending a class, this is an excellent alternative.

Likes
As mentioned, the instructor's voice is soothing, and the moves are well-cued. And, the names of the moves are shown on the screen so, if you're trying to learn the moves well enough to do them on your own outside of your living room, you could easily make notes.

Dislikes
I can't really call it a dislike, but I think I should note that it's not as easy as it looks. The moves are precise, so although it feels laid back, the mind is very actively engaged the entire time.

Bottom Line
I'm interested to try a class to see how this compares. I liked doing the video at home, alone, because I truly had no idea what I was doing, which always makes me feel a little self-conscious if I'm in a group setting. Also, I definitely understand why you often see Tai Chi classes in the park -- with my senses so involved, I can only imagine how much more powerful the exercise would have been with the scents and sounds of the outdoors.

Tai Chi, in general, isn't going to take the place of some of the more physically challenging workouts I do. I like to sweat. However, there's definitely a place for workouts like Tai Chi, and I think this video is a great resource.