Yogilates: Level 3 - Advanced

Rating:
Summary: Exceptional!
Review: I have had the pleasure of viewing all three of Jonathan Urla's Yogilates DVDs. Levels 1 to 3 definitely correspond to the appropriate skill levels of the general public, in my opinion. Of course, for the few very advanced practioners of Hatha Yoga, the Vinyasa elements within the "advanced" Yogilates DVD might better approximate the beginnings of an intermediate program. However, I think that for the majority of us, Level 3 Yogilates is as advanced as we'll probably endeavor to strive for. In any event, for those die-hard practitioners, the instructions are generously peppered with tips for increasing the difficulty of various poses.

That said, I find the complementary Yoga/Pilates exercises to be quite rigorous yet synergistic. In fact, I have yet to experience a "day after" without feeling some kind of ache ... and this is a good thing! I know I'm working my body in ways it has not been accustomed to (and I engage in advanced pilates matwork several times a week!). More importantly, I always walk away with a sense of gain and accomplishment. To drive the point home, there are a couple of instances where even one of the demonstrators fumbles a bit -- and she appears to be quite fit, strong and flexible!

As for aesthetics, the setting is soothing and the Indian music blends quite nicely. Jonathan's tone is relaxing and confident, with some light humor thrown in. My favorite line (which may actually be intended sincerely) is when he makes reference to a particular pose, saying that it should elicit a feeling of happiness -- I'll say, tongue-in-cheek, that I was distinctly not happy.

For Pilates enthusiasts who want to include wonderful stretches within their techniques, and for Hatha yogins who want to supplement their practice with terrific strength building exercises, this is the fusion you're looking for! The Yogilates DVDs are a great choice!

Rating:
Summary: good blend
Review: This is a great DVD that integrate Vinyasa yoga and pilates very smoothly, you'll alternate from one to another without any break, a flow, just like a regular yoga o pilates practise but mixed.The pace is not too fast and Jonathan Urla is a good teatcher that doesn't talk all the time.
The music change with the exercices and is not distracting at all, the setting is nice and relaxing.

This DVD is not for beginner, you'll need a certain base in both discipline but it's relaxing and you'll built long and lean muscles.
Enjoy it.