I used this video once traditional yoga become uncomfortable (2nd and 3rd trimester). Plenty difficult, Easy to modify to make more difficult if need be. I really didn't embrace the third trimester variations until the last couple of weeks. I absolutely believe that yoga during pregnancy helped labor and delivery go so smoothly for me (effective pushing, easier to focus on breathing, drug-free delivery)
I am in my 2nd trimester and enjoy this yoga course very much, it's incredibly well designed for healthy pregnancy and delivery. I have been doing yoga for many years, and feel this is challenging me plenty.
I have only done it during my second trimester but the pace and ease of directions makes this an enjoyable experience. I feel like I will be able to do this up to delivery.
I really like that all three levels are demonstrated. I wish this video was a little more of a workout, I'm sure later in my pregnancy I'll appreciate that it's low-impact, but currently I find myself supplementing the video with gym workouts (I have always been very active though and my doctor ok'd the added exercise since my body is already accustomed to it). I think this is a great start for any level though, especially if you are not active, it's important for the baby to have some activity. This video is a great ease into stretching and readying your body for the coming changes.
When I was pregnant, my OB was extremely relaxed about everything I did but the only thing she told me not to do was any kind of tummy tightening. I was so nervous about that after, so I decided to do this prenatal yoga and just be careful with any tummy stuff. It is tough (depending on your fitness level of course, & I was at that point I'd say between beginner to intermediate) but made me feel so great after, relaxed as well as feeling like I did something great for me & my baby! I think yoga is great for any time in your life, and there's something to fit any fitness level and time in your life, and this prenatal yoga fit the bill for me! I do recommend it!
I bought this for my wife and she loves it. The breathing exercises are great as well as the yoga. Shiva Rea has a bit of a blank stare the whole time but does a great job.
When I became pregnant with my 5th child, my husband and I were very happy. I do recall suffering from backaches and pains and was not looking forward to it. My 3rd pregnancy, we went out and purchased a very expensive mattress set thinking that would be the solution to my problem. It was only temporary. During my OB appt. one of the RNs recommended Yoga to me. I was also concerned that I had not lost all of my "baby weight" from my previous pregnancy and I had gained a lot of weight on birth control. I began the workout DVD toward the end of my 1st trimester. I worked out with the DVD 4 to 5 times a week and walked on my treadmill 1-2 a week. One thing I noticed immediately....no back pains. I also really enjoyed the relaxation part and the fact that I would actually fall asleep right on the mat! The exercises were easy but you still felt a "good stretch" in certain poses. I also liked the fact that you are able to watch different variations of the poses from the various different women on the DVD just in case you need to modify. Moreover, it is VERY relaxing! (Great for us moms with multiple children. The DVD really gives a peace of mind.) Pre-pregnancy, I was 184lbs. While working out with this DVD, I only gained 10lbs and my son was 8lbs. 7oz. (I was also not on a restricted diet and never had gestational diabetes.) I ate when I was hungry, I ate what I wanted, and I drank lots of water. When I went to my six week check up, I was 156lbs!!! My pre-pregnancy clothes are TOO BIG!! I am amazed! I also had a C-section so I was not able to do any sort of workout during those 6 weeks. During my workout regimen, I did begin to feel "leaner" but with an every growing abdomen, you really don't see it. However, I see it now!! I am very happy and pleased with my results. I am feeling more like myself now and I am now back to purchase another Yoga DVD. This DVD is for all mommies to be in all beautiful shapes and sizes.
Even if you're fit and used to doing more involved/physical yoga, this dvd is worthy for it's breath, bloodflow, and opening benefits. I was looking for something prenatal that was safely CHALLENGING and toning as well. This one is not challenging, but will be good to have around for late second/third trimester. She has easily defined sections which make it easy to jump to certain sections if you don't wish to do entire practice.