Bryan Kest's Power Yoga

The Bottom Line

Bryan Kest's Power Yoga may feel a bit dated when it comes to the setting and workout gear; after all, the original version is nearly two decades old. Nevertheless, if you're looking for an excellent stamina-building, sweat-inducing power yoga workout, few DVDs are as reputable and highly rated as this one.

Trainer

A Power Yoga pioneer. When it comes to Power Yoga, instructor Bryan Kest has no rival. With more than 30 years of experience, he encourages a more personal, spiritual yoga experience than more casual yoga videos. Yet more than one viewer calls Kest flat-out "corny" and critics say he talks too much, and the clothes and music are dated and distracting. However, if you can overlook these few negative points, reviewers say Kest provides interesting moves and nice modifications. He explains what each pose should feel like when performed correctly, but users say more instruction would be helpful.

Workout

Fast pace yields a full-body workout. Power yoga is an athletic and vigorous style that benefits athletes or anyone looking for an intense workout. Kest's video includes three 50-minute sessions designed for various fitness levels. Suitable for beginners, the first segment includes a heart-pumping Ashtanga yoga workout. The second session for intermediate students focuses on muscular strength and flexibility. The third is an advanced routine with balance poses and vigorous movement. Reviewers like that they can progress to a new level as their skills improve and that Kest demonstrates modifications for most poses. If you prefer a more relaxing style of yoga, experts recommend Element: Yoga for Stress Relief and Flexibility (*Est. $11) .

Materials

Feels dated, but moves are still effective. Perhaps the biggest drawback of this yoga DVD is how dated it feels. It was originally produced in 1995 and includes several fitness models in matching uniforms. While the workout is still very effective by all accounts, reviewers say the throwback style and music can be distracting.