Since we're giving it away this week as part of our Triple Fit Giveaway, I thought it would be a good idea to check out Pulse Yoga I with Argie Tang. This is the basic Pulse Yoga video, offering an overview of the concept (and a pretty decent workout along the way).

The 60-minute video incorporates Pilates, weight training and yoga to build strength, stamina and power. Other DVDs in the series are Pulse Yoga II Balance & Tone, Pulse Yoga III Stamina & Strength and the 30-minute Pulse Yoga Express. The subsequent DVDs are all on the same skill level. This way, "You can choose to mix and match your routines, depending on which workouts you like best," Tang says.

Tang has a wealth of experience in yoga, having studied under some of the great masters. In 1978, she opened the first Yoga College of India for Bikram Choudury and has taught more than 15,000 yoga classes. She's joined in the video by Prisca Boris, who shows modifications for some of the more challenging poses and worked with Tang to launch the "Y4A" Fitness System.

Level of Difficulty
Beginner to intermediate. If you're new to yoga (or fitness in general), you might need to come out of some of the poses early, but you'll still be able to do the video.

Next Day Soreness
Little to none.

Who's It For?
If you like yoga, but want to add more to it, this is a great option because you incorporate light weights and small movements into traditional asanas.

Likes
The ocean view is gorgeous (the video was shot in Punta Mita, Mexico), and as someone who enjoys both yoga and strength training, I liked the way Tang created new ways to experience both at the same time.

Dislikes
I had a few pet peeves that really had nothing to do with the workout itself. It was very windy on the set, and not all of the wind noise was removed, which I found distracting (particularly during balance poses). Also, while the moves were generally easy to follow, the cuing wasn't always as clear as it could have been during moves that took my eyes away from the TV. And, I would have liked the music to be a little louder -- I could hardly hear it without turning the volume waaaay up.

Bottom Line
It's a good video and a solid workout -- yoga with a twist is the way I would describe it. And, at just $14.99, it's a good price. In fact, if you buy the three-DVD set, you save almost $10. I can't say it's my favorite workout DVD, but it's a keeper.



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