Sara Ivanhoe’s 20 Minute Yoga Makeover Total Body Tone with Weights (phew, what a mouthful) from Natural Journeys is a triple threat, combining yoga and weights in just 20 minutes to save you time while still getting in a good workout.  Using light hand weights, simple strength training exercises and basic yoga moves, Ivanhoe leads you through this easy routine with a soothing, authoritative voice.  She provides just enough instruction you know what to do, without any intimidating yoga “lingo.”

I did this DVD on my “off” strength training day and it was the perfect intensity.  Sara used 2 pound dumbbells; I used 3 because that’s all I had. Honestly, the weights didn’t do much in terms of fatiguing the muscles- they were more for challenging your balance while holding poses.   There are tricep extensions, shoulder exercises and bicep curls thrown in with the yoga poses for extra toning, but let’s be serious, with 2-3 pound dumbbells, I wouldn’t expect to be bending any railroad spikes anytime soon.

The Rundown

Duration: Approx 20 minutes

Intensity: 3-5 depending on fitness level

Difficulty to follow: 1- clear instruction, slow pace

Equipment: 2-5 hand weights- I wouldn’t recommend going  heavier to get more out of the lifting aspect, you will risk injury with certain yoga poses.

The Verdict: This is the perfect DVD for an intro to both yoga and strength training, or for a quick and easy, relaxing complimentary routine for any exerciser- especially those short on time.