Reviews (122)

Worth Purchasing
Prenatal yoga is worth buying for pregnant women looking for an at-home guide to stretching. The scenery and music are pleasant, and the instruction is easy to follow. It features one women for each trimester, who adjust the yoga exercises accordingly. I do it once a week, in addition to 3 days per week of one-hour cardio exercise/light weight-lifting sessions at the gym. I wish I had the time to do Prenatal Yoga more often; it's hard to find an hour to myself with my 2 1/2 year old son. This video seems to help ease backaches and stiffness associated with pregnancy. I view this yoga video as a convenient but important complement to my multi-faceted exercise rountine.

ok. It depends...
The usefulness of this tape depends on what you're looking for. If you haven't been exercising a lot before pregnancy, this is likely suitable. You'll certainly get a good amount of toning and relaxing-stretching that will make you feel pretty good.

Unlike some reviewers,I didn't mind the fact that the tape uses voice-over, but i found the instructor to be a little too "relaxed" for my taste --that is, she doesn't convey enough energy to get me going. I was a regular exerciser before I got pregnant (pilates and running) and so, I found this tape to not really be enough. If you have time to exercise 2 hours a day, you might combine it with a brisk walk or light run to get a more satisfying workout. But, if you're like me, an hour max is all you can spare. Actually, I haven't touched this tape since getting Leisa Hart's "FitMama". The latter includes yoga along with some fun salsa-dance aerobics, as well as kegels and stretching--it just feels like a more complete, efficient workout.

Excellent
I started this workout in my second trimester, and I loved it! It helped me to relax and eased some of my aches and pains in my third trimester. It also helped me to not gain as much weight as I might have. I found the breathing practice VERY helpful during my labor, and I give credit to this workout for my short labor and 15 minutes of pushing. It is great for strengthening the muscles you need for labor, and I lost weight very quickly afterward since I was in great shape before. I have several other prenatal yoga tapes, but this is the one I grabbed the most and found to be the better workout.

better than most prenatal DVDs
I agree with an earlier reviewer who was annoyed at her pronounciation of exhale ("eggsale"), but other than that I rank this far higher than Zen Mama (ug!) or even the seemingly beloved FitMama's yoga portion. This is much more like real yoga classes I've taken, and I think that you DO hold the poses enough to get a workout, for sure. I'm in my 8th month and this is the video I reach for when my back or ribs are sore. I always feel better afterward, and usually sleep better too.

poor workout, terrible audio
the moves in this wokrout are too short to be effective, whether you are prego ro not....Shiva seems to be a nice lady, but she teaches with voiveovers and that annoys you so much. She is not confident and doesn't help you relax before, during, or after the workout. This is so average it will not inspire you or help you unless you are totally desparate. ... Read more

Description

What can you do to keep your body in good condition now that you are pregnant or just thinking about getting pregnant? Discover the benefits of Prenatal Pilates. Here is the first prenatal video based directly on Pilates and modified for the special requirements of each trimester. Certified Pilates instructor, Sarah Picot, teaches you how to safely and properly execute the movements for maximum benefit. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Short and too Quick
I found this Dvd to be not particularly helpful. It is divided into 3 separate trimester workouts, each of which is only about 10 minutes long. A 10 minute work out is not of much use to me. In addition, I thought the instructor went too quickly through each exercise, without much instruction on what to focus on. I enjoyed using a Pilates for Pregnancy book instead. I get a 30 minute work out using my book and I find it easier to read the instructions than to watch someone else zipping through the exercises.

I LOVED THIS DVD!
I just had my baby, and I used Prenatal Pilates from my 4th month on. To be honest, I thought it would be too easy. I am so glad I stuck with it! The bigger I got, the harder it was. It saved my back in my 3rd trimester. I have been told my labor was really short for a first pregnancy. I just gave it to my pregnant sister-in-law because she knew how much I loved it.

this is the best
I got this as a gift and used in during all 3 trimesters. It truly helped me stay in shape during my pregnancy. Even now, a few weeks after delivery, I can tell that I'm in better shape than I was after my first child was born(when I hadn't used this excercis video then). I recommend it highly!!

No menu
I only watched this DVD once! The video is split up into three sections. One for first, second and third trimesters. You are only supposed to watch the section that is designed for your stage in pregnancy for obvious saftey reasons. Mine did not have a menu. I had to watch the entire thing if I wanted to watch the third section. Who has time for that? I also would not recommend it for anyone who is just begining exercise. It was a waste of $25!

Perfect for Pregnancy
I'm so glad I found this video. It definitely helped make me more comfortable during my pregnancy, especially my back. The instructor takes care to modify the exercises for pregnancy and divided the video for each trimester. Great if you're a pilates fan or just need a safe way to exercise while you're pregnant. ... Read more

Description

Buns of Steel instructor Leisa Hart continues to create dynamic programs that are safe, fun and effective to get you the results you deserve! Her warm, approachable personality and impeccable cueing has motivated millions to embrace exercise. As an ACE and AFAA certified instructor with over 19 years fitness industry experience, Leisa specializes in Prenatal Exercise, Lifestyle & Weight Management, Yoga and Toning.

Prenatal exercise will help you:

- Ease back pain
- Improve digestion
- Avoid calf cramps
- Increase energy levels
- Avoid excessive weight gain
- Ease emotional highs and lows
- Prepare for labor and delivery
- Bond with your baby
- Bounce back more quickly after delivery

Stay fit through each stage of your pregnancy with International Fitness Expert and expectant mom Leisa Hart. This innovative method helped her stay fit and energetic during her first pregnancy. FitMama Prenatal Workout follows the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Leisa will help you increase your self-confidence with your changing body and feel great from conception to delivery! ... Read more

Reviews (150)

Very easy but still a lot of fun
I haven't found a pregnancy video yet that makes me feel like I've had a good workout, but at least this one comes close. I can't say that I get my heart rate up, but I guess it's better than doing nothing. The salsa dance is easy to catch on to, accompanied by good music, but rather mild in intensity level. So it's advised that experienced exercisers do the yoga fat burn afterwards. The main benefit of this section is toning (thighs) and stretching (back and sides) but it moves really slowly. I don't mind all the repetition in the video since it makes it easier to learn the moves, but I wish it had a bit more oomph to it. I still do my usual exercise videos and even step aerobics (at almost 6 months) but I think I'll be using Fit Mama more and more as I get bigger.

Excellent for ANY type of pregnant exerciser!
I have to agree with Lois, Jennifer from Georgia is SO wrong!

I am 6 weeks pregnant. Before this, I worked out about 2-3 times a week with weights and cardio using The Firm. I bought this video last week and did my first routine on Saturday. I was so incredibly pleased by the workout and Leisa, that I couldn't wait to write a review on it.
First - Leisa Hart is an amazing instructor. In the beginning of a pregnancy, you feel more fat than pregnant. She makes you feel beautiful. She says many times to be proud of your growing body and even says "let me see your bellies." It is very uplifting and really boosts your self-esteem just with that alone.
I have a background in dance, so I LOVED that it started out with Salsa dancing. If it's not getting your heart rate up, then add something to it, maybe weights on your ankles. However, it did get my heart rate up, it made me feel good. Leisa is very peppy, and you want to keep going because of her.
The time goes by quickly because you have things to focus on. The fun dance, or Leisa herself. The stretching sections are good, and overall, I give the tape an A+ and would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone of any exercise background.
Pregnancy isn't what it used to be. Working out isn't bad. Having too high of a heart rate is bad though. But if you don't have a tape and you're concerned about possibly gaining too much weight (as we all are) then get this tape. You won't be disappointed, and I am VERY picky about what workouts I do.

Not only will working out help keep you in shape, it also helps speed your metabolism and lower your hunger cravings. You are only supposed to get an extra 300 calories a day during pregnancy, without working out, there's no way I wouldn't overeat. Lisa also explains in the beginning anything you may have questions on.

Drink lots of water, and have a safe and pleasant pregnancy.
Dena

best prenatal video ever!!!!
FITMAMA Prenatal is no doubt the BEST EVER prenatal made to hit the market. I LOVED IT. Leisa Hart is a guru with fitness programming, I loved her BUNS OF STEEL videos a few years back and loved it when I saw that she did a prenatal video, expecially after doing a few others that bored me to tears. This was fund, the Salsa dancing got my heart rate to a great level, the yoga was new and fun, a great variation that Leisa explains well and it toned my hips and legs and got my back ready to deliver another healthy baby, this is a TWO THUMBS UP video!!!

Great pregnancy workout -- even if you hate to exercise!
I was so excited to find Leisa Hart's prenatal workout DVD. With my last pregnancy, I took up walking and tried doing whatever prenatal workout I could, but my well-meaning husband got me a prenatal yoga video that I just HATED to do. It felt a little too much like work, forcing myself to do it. Now 4 months into my second pregnancy, this DVD has been a lifesaver! Not only do I not mind doing it, but it's actually FUN! Plus, with the DVD format, you can pick and choose what type of workout you want to do ... from the fat-burning yoga one day to the Salsa dance (my absolute favorite) the next. Plus, there are lots of prenatal stretches and relaxation techniques. I especially like how fun and upbeat Leisa Hart keeps this workout ... not at all boring or "meditative" like some. Just a great prenatal workout in general! Five stars!

love this prenatal workout
i love this prenatal video, the instructions are ideal, i don't have to follow a bunch of unnecessary choreography, and the personality of the instructor Leisa Hart is great....i highly recommend this workout, i never get bored doing it and always feel very refreshed and good about my workout, plus my darling hubbie thinks i am a FitMama!!! ... Read more

Description

Discover how yoga infused Pilates can keep you in shape during and after your pregnancy.   Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates for Pregnancy is the first Pilates based workout designed to give pregnant women a challenging workout, without compromising safety.

      When Jennifer Gianni became pregnant with her first child, she realized how little information was available on how to stay in shape, while taking every precaution to insure the safety of her baby and a healthy pregnancy.

      Experienced Pilates instructor, Jennifer Gianni, credits Pilates for a quick bounce back after her first and second babies.   Fusion Pilates is the result of her in-depth research into what constitutes a safe and effective workout for the pregnant woman. The workout follows all guidelines from The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

      This unique workout includes modifications that are appropriate for each trimester.   Pregnant woman of all fitness levels will be challenged and motivated by this inspiring workout.

      Jennifer Gianni has over 13 years of experience in the mind/body field including Dance, Pilates, Yoga, Weight Training & Gyrotonic. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Soothing and Strenuous
This is the best pregnancy workout I've tried yet. So many of them have you working on your back or doing other things that are dangerous for moms to be. The main instructor is great and the video is easy to follow and very soothing.
The other thing that's great about this one is that the modifications for different trimesters are done by the three instructors throughout the video- so you can use it from the moment you find out you're pregnant until delivery- and you don't have to fast forward to the trimester your in- it's all right there throughout.
I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a great workout that's SAFE!

poor work, instructor is too inexperienced
this is a poor quality exercise video; i was hoping the prenatal activity would be better, but its hard to do with the inconsistent instruction from the teacher, who is nice, but she doesn't exude much confidence and doesn't seem very polished at being in front of the camera, which makes a video workout hard to follow...I'd recommend Fitmama or something else, this is not very good.

Very little challenge for women who are active pre-pregnancy
This workout has some great stretching but was not a challenge for someone who is newly pregnant and already active. I was looking for something that would make me sweat or really tone muscles enough that I could feel a difference.

I would recommend this workout for women in their third trimester or women who did not workout before pregnancy.

Great for stretching, toning muscles, safe prenatal exercise
This is the second pregnancy dvd that I've ordered, and it is by far the best. If you're looking for an aerobic workout, you won't get one here. What you will get is a yoga, pilates, mild weight session that really helps to stretch and strengthen muscles and feel more in tune with your body. I found it helpful to have 3 models to follow, one doing more strenuous stretches for the 1st and 2nd trimester folks and the other two doing modifications of the same stretches for 3rd trimester. I have personally found yoga to be boring, but this tape moves quickly enough to keep my interest and incoporate pilates moves to make it go quickly and be relaxing at the same time. Of course, you will need to "invest" in some equipment to get the most from the workout; you'll need a stool or chair, 2 2lb. weights, a small ball, and a pole about 4 ft. high for some of the stretches. Sometimes I find that I really need to watch the screen to follow Jennifer Gianni's instructions. Unfortunately, she does not mirror what you are doing (she says, "stretch to the right" and she does, but it looks as though she's stretching to the left from my perspective), but I believe that in time I'll get used to the workout and won't have to depend so much on visual prompts. Overall, I am happy that I spent the money on this dvd. I will probably keep on watching after my delivery. This exercise, combined with a brisk daily walk and some other areobic activities make me feel as though I'll be ready when it's time for labor!

Good video for stretching, strengthening, relaxation
Before pregnancy, I did yoga regularly, but I had never done pilates, so I can't compare this video to other pilates options, prenatal or otherwise. I can say that I feel good after a session with this video - more flexible, relaxed. My back, in particular, seems to benefit. The exercises are varied, with some yoga, some pilates, some light weights (upper body only), and stretches. It is good to know in advance that some "props" are used in the video - a stool, a wooden dowel (I use a mop handle), 2-pound weights, and a yoga mat if you like to use one. They also recommend a ball and a blanket, but I don't find those necessary. Easy to use with the sound off once you have been through the routine a few times. The modifications for 1st and 2nd vs. 3rd trimester seem appropriate, and all are shown simulatenously, so no need to skip around to find your trimester. I watched the intro and "Kegel" exercise portion only once, and skip the relaxation segment at the end, so a session now takes about 50 minutes. The instruction is generally clear, and it is nice to see a real, healthy- and happy-looking pregnant (3rd trimester) woman leading the video. If you are looking for a pregnancy workout video that is very aerobic/high intensity, you might look elsewhere, but for stretching, strengthening, flexibility, relaxation, and overall feeling good, this one is helpful. ... Read more

Description

A regular prenatal yoga practice as taught in Yoga for Your Pregnancy can give you the energy to enjoy your pregnancy, the serenity to build a deeper intimacy with your body, and the ability to be present for the miracle of birth. Prenatal yoga can ease the discomforts of pregnancy, such as moodiness, shortness of breath, swollen ankles, nausea, indigestion and insomnia; and help you prepare for the rigors and mysteries of labor.On each video:

PART 1: ENERGIZING & STRENGTHENING (30 minutes) Gentle flowing practice to build strength and stamina for the demands of labor-and alleviate the discomforts caused by your ever-changing body.

PART 2: RELAXING & REJUVENATING (15 minutes) Learn breathing exercises to help you manage contractions-plus meditation techniques to help you relax and concentrate during delivery.Lamaze Interview-with expert Carol Penn Erskine

Exclusively on DVD:
Pranayama for Pregnancy: 3 simple breathing techniques to calm your nervous system
Meditation for Pregnancy: Guided meditation to help foster inner focus and awareness
Birthing Room Yoga: Simple yoga techniques to encourage a peaceful mind and body during delivery
Postnatal Yoga Practice: Gentle practice to help you regain strength and flexibility 6 weeks after delivery
Articles from Yoga Journal and Lamaze Parents magazine on yoga and pregnancy on a special DVD-Rom section

This video show you how to modify some poses using yoga props. Depending on your flexibility or stage of pregnancy, you may need a chair, two large pillows, a blanket, or sofa cushions. The use of a yoga mat is recommended. ... Read more

Product Description

Along with mothers-to-be, noted chilbirth experts and Kathy Smith's newborn daughter Kate, she'll show you how to maintain your energy and strength throughtout your pregnancy, and get back into top shape after your baby's arrived. ... Read more

Reviews (70)

The Ultimate Birth Preparation Workout
This video is the best childbirth preparation you can do! As an avid workout enthusiast, I wanted a video that I could safely do as my doctor advised no more jumping or step workouts after my 3rd month of pregnancy.

The Kathy Smith Pregnancy video has a low impact aerobic segment followed by a superior toning section; a postnatal mini-workout with exercises for after your baby arrives is also included. As my husband says, giving birth is a major physical event that you must train for! After doing this video religiously 3-4 times a week for the last 6 months of my pregnancy, I had a textbook labor and a wonderful delivery. I even escaped the dreaded low back pain and swollen ankles which I attribute to staying physically active with this video. I was able to utilize a lot of the moves (squats, etc.) during labor and delivered a healthy son without drugs of any kind! Because I recovered from the birth quickly, I was better able to cope with those exhausting first few weeks home with my new son. I highly recommend this video to all my pregnant friends!

It's old, but I still found it helpful in 2003
This workout has been filmed during Kathy's second pregnancy. It includes a warm-up or "energizer" as Kathy calls it, as well as 3 aerobics segments which are fun and easy to follow. There is a separate segment for toning the legs, arms (light weights are optional) and even exercises for the pregnant women's abs. I've used this video workout in my second pregnancy and found it very helpful. It's true, it is quite old and could be dissmised as outdated (although I for one am more interested in what a workout itself has to offer rather than complain about the music or outfits), but I think the exercises and advice on the video are still standing today.Kathy looks great and is inspiring as always. And the workout works! It worked for me, kept me in much better shape with my second pregnancy than with my first (when I was younger and also did other pregnancy video workouts), it helped me understand better how exercise improves our pregnant body and the postpartum tips given by Kathy were appreciated as well.

Terrible, terrible
It is soo outdated. The moves are old. The outfits are even worse. Notably, only Kathy wears a decent outfit, the others are clothed in telly-tubbie style garb. Watch out for the horrible attempt at rap "do the preggo dance" (intended as a comic relief during the workout). Just awful!

It was initially a VHS so it doesnt have the functionality of the dvd.

Be warned.

Retro is Cool!
Who cares that the video is dated? Pilates were hard enough for me when I was not pregnant, so when I was pregnant, the Kathy Smith video was a perfect alternate workout - esp. on those cold winter days when sidewalks were icy and getting over to the pool was a hassle. It's not particularly challenging, but overall I would imagine that a little bit of movement, some muscle work and getting your heart pumping can only be helpful to you and your growing baby. I found it especially safe and appropriate for my final trimester. Plus, it's one of the few non-yoga/pilates pregnancy videos out there!

outdated, not as safe as you need it
I love Kathy Smith, but this DVD should be off the market. i cannot see how a 15 year video is still safe for prego women, so many things have changed with doctors that i do not feel comfortabel doing this retro video. The outfits made me laugh, and the cheesy moves were a hoot, but i didnt buy this for a laugh, so its not worth it to try it again and again, Fitmama is so much better. Sorry, but Kathy is not my prego teacher of choice. ... Read more

Description

Congratulations on the birth of your baby! Now it is time to get your body looking and feeling fit again. Certified Pilates instructor and creator of the Prenatal Pilates Video, Sarah Picot has developed this Post-natal Pilates workout to include your baby while targeting those stubborn postpartum areas. Sarah and her 15 week old son Ben, guide you through the exercises. There are advanced versions, modifications and baby position options throughout the video that enable everyone to benefit from this workout. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good place to start getting back in shape
I bought this DVD to get back in some kind of shape after the birth of my first baby. I had been on bedrest for 10 weeks prenatal and didn't have the confidence to go straight back to exercise classes without taking some time to get in better shape at home first.

I like how the DVD involves Baby to some degree, because it made exercise more approachable. There were 1 or 2 exercises I had to struggle with at first, which wasn't necessarily a negative for me as it gave me something to shoot for. In some places, the soundtrack seems to be a little off from the video, so you have to choose between listening and watching to follow along. Also, you can't fast forward through all the talking at the beginning because there are no chapters. Despite these problems, I found what I was looking for (an exercise program that I could do with my 4 month old to get back on track with weight loss and fitness) in this DVD.

Okay... but short and not for beginners
The total work out time for this DVD is 20 minutes and as a pilates novice, hard to follow. For such a short DVD it seems quite rushed and doesn't explain positions very well.

Although, the interaction with my 12 week old is wonderful.

Great workout for Mom and Baby
I love this workout! My baby is 5 months old, so I wish I had gotten this workout earlier, due to the fact that you are supposed to use it for a 2 month old up to a 6 month old. It consists of classic pilates moves designed to tone your hips, abs and thigh areas. It also has some upper body moves where you use your baby as a weight to tone your arms. I enjoyed it, it was a fast workout but very vigorous. The instructions on how to do the pilates excersizes were very clear throughout. My baby seemed to like it too! Again, my only regret is that I wish I had gotten this DVD earlier in my postpartum days so I could have worked out with my baby more. ... Read more

Description

Everything you need to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, enjoy a healthy pregnancy or get back into shape after pregnancy, safely and effectively. And it doesnt matter if you have never done Pilates before, this program issuitable for all studentsbut dont take our word for it - read what the health professionals say! With a warm up, two different workouts and a section on post birth exercises,you can create a stronger body and support it to cope with the physical changes of pregnancy by developing safe posture and movement. Lindsey also teaches you how toregain deep muscle tone and flatten your tummy after having your baby. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Safe, effective Pilates routine for pregnancy
As a physical therapist who deals with pregnant women in pain every day, I can definitely recommend THIS routine for pregnancy. Traditional Pilates tends to be extremely stressful on loose pelvic joints (that occur in pregnancy). The pace is steady and calming, but the exercises are challenging. I especially like that the video was made in consultation with UK physiotherapists. I recommend it to my pregnant patients, and use the routine myself outside of pregnancy. Two thumbs up! ... Read more

Reviews (50)

a good stretch, an easy workout and some inspiration
I'm currently in my 19th week and have been using this video for about 6 weeks. I alternate this video with Rocki's Prenatal Yoga. This is the one I pick when I'm feeling less motivated and want a good stretch, an easy workout and some inspiration. I feel good afterwards, both in body and attitude. I'm VERY inspired by the different body types and love seeing the bare bellies on so many of the moms-to-be. I prefer Sue's personality and style to Rocki's, but I feel more "worked out" from Rocki's video.
I only wish this workout was available on DVD: I suffer from insomnia as part of my pregnancy symptoms and I have found the 2nd half or so to be exactly what I need (at 2am) to tune out my stress and relax my body. Also, I am a work at home mom with a toddler and sometimes 15 minutes is all the time I can make (the full workout is 45 minutes but I find I can break it into 3 segments when I need to). DVDs make it so easy to skip ahead and there's no need to rewind!

An excellent prenatal yoga practice
Although I wouldn't call this the perfect prenatal yoga practice, it has some distinct strengths over other prenatal yoga videos I've seen. Visibly pregnant Sue Elkind leads a class of about a dozen women of in all stages of pregnancy through a well-chosen series of yoga poses. One woman demonstrates modifications for the less flexible, but most of the women do the program without modification, even in late pregnancy. The instructor talks through each pose, giving special attention to the balance and posture changes of pregnancy and emphasizing the connections between body and mind and mother and baby-to-be. This constant commentary makes the poses easy to follow even when not watching the screen, but may distract from the meditative quality of yoga practice.

Yoga Mama is most appropriate for women with no or limited yoga experience and no exercise constraints. It may also be helpful for intermediate level women in late stages of pregnancy, for tired days, or as the easy part of a rotation of practices. Advanced yoga students, however might find this video frustratingly basic and prefer to develop a personalized yoga practice using books (try Preparing for Birth With Yoga by Janet Balaskas). Women who need greater modification might want to try the Shiva Rea Prenatal Yoga program instead. Props: sticky mat (or carpet), folded blanket, folded towel (for wrist pain), chair (for modifications)

Personal Experience: I used prenatal yoga videos several times a week in addition to prenatal classes in a yoga studio once or twice a week. Although no video can equal a live class, this one captures some of the spirit of practicing yoga in a room full of pregnant women of all shapes and sizes. For home practice, I could choose between Yoga Mama and Shiva Rea's Prenatal Yoga video. Although Shiva Rea's video is longer and has better production values, I plunked this video in the VCR more than twice as often. I preferred the selection of poses in Yoga Mama (though I wish each pose lasted longer) and I preferred following Yoga Mama's visibly pregnant instructor (skinny Shiva Rea demonstrates first trimester poses with no hint of a belly). In addition, I found it much more motivating to see the whole class perform without modifications in contrast to the extreme modifications in Shiva Rea's program (the third trimester woman does most of the poses seated on a chair). To my surprise, I was able to comfortably and safely perform Yoga Mama without modification up until a few days before delivery. Practicing prenatal yoga helped minimize back pain, leg cramps, and other pregnancy discomforts.

My favorite prenatal yoga workout
This is a great tape! I have been doing it for almost my entire pregnancy (I'm in my 8th month) and I love it. It isn't the longest workout (about 40 minutes) and it isn't the most challenging, it is just the most fun and gives you the best feeling. Sue Elkin is awesome and the tape is just great! Get it, you'll love it!

horrible video, poor quality, poor instruction
Crunch is a neat brand, but they missed it with this prego video. The instruction is poor, the set is dull, and the workout is below average.

Relaxing and fun
I really like this video. It gives you a gentle workout, not too difficult, but still worthwhile. The instructor and all the other women in the video are pregant and they give you modifications on all the harder stuff. Overall, if you want a 1/2 hour - 45 minutes of gentle yoga with some stretching and a little strength work, this is a great tape for you. It is my favorite. ... Read more

Description

Your pregnancy, one of the most profound and transformational experiences of your life, is the time to take very special care of your baby and yourself. Practicing yoga during pregnancy can help you to become more sensitive to your body’s and your baby’s ever changing needs.In this program yoga instructor Rainbeau Mars provides a safe and effective pre-natal yoga practice that will help you to maintain a strong and centered body and mind. You will work through a sequence of postures that are not only designed to keep you happy in the moment, but also to prepare you for the experience of giving birth. Since your yoga practice during this special time will need to be adjusted depending on which trimester you are in, Rainbeau works with two assistants. Together, the three of them demonstrate how each posture should be practiced according to where you are in your pregnancy.Benefits of pre-natal yoga practice: • Increases endurance and stamina• Builds strength and flexibility• Improves concentration and breath awareness ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Great prenatal yoga video for all levels
ZenMama is a terrific prenatal yoga workout. I originally bought Yoga Mama by Crunch because of its rave reviews and also the recommendation from Fit Pregnancy magazine. I was highly disappointed due to the feeling of being rushed through the workout, not getting an adequate stretch. I felt unsatisfied after every workout and decided to purchase ZenMama.

I consider myself at an intermediate level of yoga. My personal preference of yoga video before pregnancy was Baron Baptiste's Power Yoga, level II. I say this only because everyone has a varied preference in style.

ZenMama provides great stretching, has helped me with digestion, and also keeps you in tune with your baby throughout pregnancy. It's gentle and easy to follow for beginners (with a couple of exceptions in her wording), but definately a thorough workout for all levels. Rainbow Mars has a bubbly personality that is refreshing. Those who are annoyed by it can choose to play only music throughout the workout. I've been enjoying the video 4-5 days a week for 4 months now and haven't gotten tired of it. That combined with a mile walk every day (which is really not that much) has kept my weight gain steady and minimal. I highly recommend this video to anyone who is pregnant- it will truly help you through your 9 months.

yuk, instructor is too spaced out for me
i did this workout once and traded it, the instructor is TOO SPACED OUT for me, she is the ultimate California Yoga type who will bother the heck out of alot of people. She greated my nerves and was not very good at motivating, relaxing, or teaching. This is two thumbs down

Very good workout
I really enjoy this dvd. Rainbeau Mars is charmingly goofy and the workout is a good one. There is nothing in here that stresses my mind or body - I just feel good when I do it. The only problem with the dvd is that the audio track is off in the beginning which is really creepy to watch - I just avert my eyes. Otherwise, it's a good stretch with a gentle workout; highly recommended.

not a favorite
This video falls into the category of: seems like they did it in one take. The main problem is the instructor. She makes numerous grammatical mistakes, doesn't explain certain things well, and makes "off-the-cuff" remarks that seem staged. I don't know if there are better yoga videos out there (I bought this one since its reviews were better than most), but this is NOT something I happily reach for. One caveat: this may be the snobbery of someone with several yoga studios within walking distance. If your fitness access is limited and you're not picky, it is certainly better than no yoga.

pretty weird, spacey, but nice set
i like the set of this video, but other than that, i would give it one star...the instructor Rainbow is so soft and sweet, she doesn't seem real. I am not really enjoying this video, its not as fitnessy of a yoga prego video as i'd like, it's about to be traded away. ... Read more

Description

This DVD will engage all your senses!Filmed in a Los Angeles home filled greenery and beautiful artwork by Sergio Bustamante.Original music by Puppetina, Dark Artss, Kevin Haskins & Doug De Angelis. Many styles of yoga have been incorporated to give you the best experiences in your prenatal "training".

Chapters:1- Breathing and Warm Up (Kundalini and Iyengar based yoga styles) 2- Sun Salutations (Anusara based)
3- Chair Poses (Warrior Poses done with support)
4- Restorative Poses(Iyengar based)
5- Final Relaxation (Corpse Pose). ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Dr Christine Anderson gently guides women
Relaxing, clear guidance fromhighly knowledgeable Pediatric Chiropractor who is also an experienced yoga teacher.

Dr Christine Anderson gently guides women who are in different stages of pregnancy through a complete yoga session for body, mind and spirit (of mom and baby).
Easy to follow modifications are given for different stages of pregnancy.

The DVD chapter format is great for yoga as the viewer can easily do all or part of the session. Dr Anderson's final relaxation is essential for any pregnant mom to practice alone or after the session.

I will be sure to add this to my collection and recommend it to my students who are pregnant.I also suggest for women to refer to Dr Anderson's wealth of information and expertise on natural child birth and children's health concerns after birth.

Amy Sat Bachan Reich, Yoga Teacher, Los Angeles, CA

The prenatal yoga DVD I've been looking for
While I like Shiva Rea and Rocki's prenatal yoga DVD's, I was very surprised by what an all encompassing great yoga work-out I found in Dr. Christine Anderson's Dynamic Prenatal Yoga. Refreshingly, you truly get a 90-minute workout, not a lot of time wasted on musings and/or explanations. She has a very steady and soothing voice, and the practice builds endurance, strength and flexibility. I felt challenged by this DVD, which is rarely the case in such formats. The production values are a little funky which is the only reason I don't give this 5 stars. But it is a great prenatal yoga workout for experienced yoga practioners looking for a legitimate substitute for when one can't make it to class. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Great workout and so much fun!
I really enjoy this video and my baby girl does too! Having her next to me, smiling and gurgling makes exercising fun. This video allows me to spend time with my little one while doing something positive for myself. If you are used to Hatha yoga, be advised... this is a video of Kundalini yoga, which is completely different but equally as stimulating. Another reviewer stated that there were no calm holding poses, that is because Kundalini yoga has a different concept than Hatha yoga. In Kundalini, you are trying to wake up your chakras (which are energy centers throughout the body). Therefore, there is a different mentality to the poses; they are often movement based.
I think this video is fabulous for anyone who is interested in toning up after having a baby. As long as you go in with an open mind, knowing that it is different than your typical yoga classes, you can benefit from it. I love the video and only wish I could find a post-natal class near me so my baby could meet other little yoga babies!

Abs workout in disguise
I love yoga, and I love my baby, and this video has allowed me to introduce the two. The video wastes a little time in set-up and even in the middle - I don't see the point to the baby dance when you are in your living room and there are no other babies to meet - and other than resenting that the video tries to take up too much of my precious, carefully timed good-mood moments with the baby... I just fast-forward and do what works. There are so many different abs exercises that you really will start feeling better and stronger in your center - even if you can only do this video once a week. Many of the baby-centered exercises are towards the end (there is some marginal participation before that) so it's actually easy to split it up: if baby is in a napping mood, do the beginning part, and finish the end later when baby wants more interaction. I think this is workable, even with a fussy little one. I don't mind the new ageyness mentioned in other reviews, because the video reminds me of all those yoga classes I used to go to in San Francisco... I must be desensitized....

Buy with caution
This series by Ms G Khalsa has its place. While the production is well presented I would not recommend it for anyone who had not been doing yoga for a long time, in otherwords a seasoned yogi. There is a lot of chanting, visualisation and a really new age/ esoteric feel to this DVD. While I have done yoga in various styles and with various teachers, I found this DVD patronising and over the top. I feel I wasted my money buying this product. What I would recommend is Lisa Hart's Fit Mamma. Now there is a routine that you want to get up for and Ms Hart is 8mths pregnant while she presents it and is a breath of fresh air. I use Ms Hart's DVD three times a week

Great workout!
I almost didn't buy this video because of the negative reviews. I thought that it was going to be very difficult from what others were saying. I think that it depends on a person to person basis. I didn't really have time to work out when I was pregnant, but had prevoiusly gone to the gym regularly, so I was really feeling out of shape. I got this video three weeks ago and have been doing it with my now 7 week old. I tend to like more upbeat music when I work out because it keeps me going, so I watch the video but turn the sound down and play the radio or a cd. I like how at the end of the video it is all bout baby, this way you both get something out of it. My son loves the attention and it has become part of our morning routine. I am so glad that I bought this video, I can already feel and see a difference.

relaxing yet challenging
I got this and the pre-natal video together. I guess she went easy on us while we were pregnant, because I was surprized by how difficult some of the moves in this post natal video were for me. I didn't get around to working out until 3 months after I gave birth and I still couldn't do some of the things like roll backwards on my back and hold my legs straight up in the air. It took 7 more months before I was able to do that, but I still can't roll back and forth while holding on to my feet. Aside from those two things, I had a great time doing these exercises and my daughter enjoyed it too. Now that she's cruising around she doesn't like to lay still but the stretches that give her a chance to move and be lifted up and down are still exciting for her. She also likes to look at the other babies and their mommies on the video. The whole mood is very relaxing and peaceful, yet I still wake up the next day feeling like my abs have had a great work-out. ... Read more

Description

Buns of Steel instructor Leisa Hart continues to create dynamic programs that are safe, fun and effective to get you the results you deserve! Her warm, approachable personality and impeccable cuing has motivated millions to embrace exercise. As an ACEand AFAA certified instructor with over 19 years fitness industry experience, Leisa specializes in Pre and Postnatal Exercise, Lifestyle & Weight Management, Yoga and Toning.Prenatal exercise will help you: Improve circulation • Increase energy levels • Ease emotional highs and lows • Speed recovery of the pelvic floor • Ease back and shoulder tension from delivery • Regain and improve your pre-pregnancy physique • Build strength to carry your new bundle of joy.Busy moms will love these 5 and 10 minute time saving segments. Leisa Hart along with other moms, offers intensity variations so that you can start out light and work your way up to a challenge when you’re ready. This innovative method helped Leisa get back in top shape after both her pregnancies. FitMama Postnatal Workout follows the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists."I’ll help you shed that baby fat and regain your pre-pregnancy physique!" - Leisa Hart ... Read more

Reviews (10)

"Fitmama" is great for new moms!
I have already recommended this DVD to several of my friends. Leisa Hart is personable and warm. The workout is split into ten minute segments, making it easier for a new (and tired) mom to fit in a workout around baby's schedule. Leisa also gives you three levels of difficulty, so you can work your way up from simple to challenging. I was able to start using this video at 6 weeks postpartum.(My obstetrician thought it a particularly safe and effective workout.) I find it enjoyable, so that the workout is over before I know it! The cardio dance segments are fun and the pilates really challenge my abs. After discovering Leisa's postnatal workout, I really regret not using her prenatal DVD.

great workouts, loved this as much as FitMamaPrenatal
this is a great workout to slowly start getting back into action. I went to the doc and was told I could begin working out five weeks after delivery and i am doing really good three months later, and i owe it all to Leisa Hart. The FitMama Postnatal workout is prefectly paced, Hart is great at telling to watch your body and take it slow, she is precise and fun and motivating. I loved the funcky fat burn, and really felt good after each workout. i am now doing her Gym IN A Box dvd and love it, it is fabulous.....i highly recommend getting the FitMama Postnatal and go at your own pace, itf its not enought, get something else, but i think you'll love this.

Back in prepregancy clothes quickly
I did Leisa's prenatal workout throughout my pregnancy and then moved to the postnatal workout after my son was born. I was back in my suits for work by the time my maternity leave ended. I got lots of compliments and I feel great (and sleepy but that is another story).
Leisa is very encouraging. There are different levels in the yoga and pilates portions so you can progress as you feel better. The workout is in short segments which is great for me because my son rarely lets me do the workout at one time. It is nice to do part now part later.
The 'extras' on the DVD are great too. The Mommy and Me is in sections too, my baby doesn't have the attention to do the whole thing at one time. He really likes the lying on my legs for the tummy exercises now. He knew Leisa's voice right away from the Prenatal video!
I also liked the additional workout sections that were part of the extras.

Very disappointed
The idea behind this program is good, and I was really hoping for a good video, but I have to say that I was unfortunately really let down. The exercises are not very challenging, the instruction is not very clear, and the video itself is extremely short (especially the "Fitmama & Me" part, where you actually workout with your baby -- what should get the most time I think).
If you collect exercise tapes, this one can't hurt -- but if you're really looking for an effective post-pregnancy workout, unfortunately this video does not deliver. I'm putting mine on e-bay and looking for other videos.

How to add to Baby Registry?!?!?
I am 6 weeks pregnant and using the luxury of time to do a lot of research and browsing. I want to add this DVD to my Baby Registry list through Amazon, but cannot find a way. Help! I have the Fit Mama Pre-Natal and love it. I would really like to get this Post-Natal for once the baby arrives. ... Read more

Reviews (146)

Fantastic! Tones, stretches, and relaxes the body!
I loved this video during my pregnancy. There is a couple minutes of repetitive relaxation phrases (some call it "chanting") at the beginning. Although I definitely do yoga for the fitness, not spiritual, aspects; I found the phrases to be relaxing during the workout, helpful during labor, and calming to a crying newborn baby!! She also asks you to do a short "free dance" and imagine yourself giving birth in the forest - pretty silly, but it did help me feel less shy about childbirth. There is also some easy, but intense arm exercises - she helps you learn how to focus on other things and work through pain (obviously helpful for labor!). I was very active during my entire pregnancy. The video was both challenging and relaxing. It is doable for all phases of pregnancy - I didn't buy this video until my last month! The stretching feels great!

Great Preparation for Delivery!!
This is a great workout to prepare a pregnant mom for delivery and to relieve some of the aches and pains of pregnancy. I am *really* enjoying doing it every day, and I could tell a difference in my flexibility within a few days. I also feel GREAT after I do this workout - it helps relieve some of the exhaustion I get with my pregnancies, as well as the backache. I really wish I'd had this video with my first pregnancy - I used another prenatal yoga video which was pretty good, but this one is much better. [I am also a Lamaze Instructor and I would whole-heartedly recommend this to my students to get the ready for labor and delivery].

One warning though - the Instructor is very "new-agey". This could be annoying, depending on the kind of person you are. I pretty much fast forward through the parts that aren't working for me though, and the workout itself is awesome! The Instructor does say some things that I found very motivating [such as "women were giving birth thousands of years before anyone wrote a book on giving birth"]. I highly recommend this video - just be prepared to skip the parts you don't like!

The New Method: Baby & Mom - Prenatal Yoga
I loved this yoga workout! It was a little weird at first, but once I got used to it, I did it 2-3x/week for 5 months. This is my fourth and best pregnancy and I feel I owe it all to this yoga workout.

Excrutiatingly earnest and unpleasant
Gurmukh takes her yoga VERY seriously. Indeed, her intense relaxation is made even less relaxing by her grating voice. She seems to be pleading and whining for your admiration (but in a very "relaxed" way, of course.) If you're looking for a California guru, she might be just what the Maharishi ordered (she's got a turban to prove it) but if you're looking to bond with your baby, take private, mindful breathes, and find a "yoga-mind" for your pregnancy then look elsewhere. We sent it right back and got YogaMama, the Crunch DVD. Surprisingly, although Crunch has a rep as a powerhouse NY workout, YogaMama has all the true reverence, mindfullness, and spirit that this one lacks.

Don't let the turban fool you, underneath it is a California New Age girl. It's not suprising that they don't show the star of this video on the cover.

This video is a disservice to all those who are serious about yoga.

I enjoy this workout
I too have been doing yoga for years. All different forms of it. This DVD is based on Kundalini Yoga. For some who are looking for typical asanas found in Hatha or Ashtanga this is not that. It is more focused on the 3rd eye and the Chakras. Opening certain areas of the body to release energy, to relax and feel centered. It is also focused on the breath. It is arguably the oldest form of yoga there is. It is rather primal. Some may find it a bit silly. But in my experience it is not the yoga that is silly but the person doing it. Childbirth is a primal thing. If you can get over yourself you will enjoy it and it WILL be helpful in the delivery room. And that is, after all the point. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Just what I was looking for!!! Thanks, Rocki!
This was an amazing DVD. I found just what I wanted in a yoga workout with added responsibility of pregnancy-gentleness and kindness to my own changing body and to my baby. I appreciated Rocki's emphasis on listening to your body so that you feel great pregnant, not limited by it. I feel energized and peaceful after the workout. Rocki exudes a confidence and reassurance which comes through tot he participant. I really recommend this video. It's fun, too!

Rocki ROCKS!!!
I found this video to be extremely helpful with my friends recent pregnancy. I assisted in her birth and she repeatedly said how the positions and techniques she learned on this video helped her tremendously in the natural child-birth experience. We both found the format user friendly and felt the nurturing and preparation was fabulous. I highly recommend this video to anyone and everyone who has teh slightest interest in Yoga and participating in child birth. This Rocki video rocks.

Great workout!
I'm using this workout for my 3rd baby and wished I'd had it for the first 2. I always feel better after doing it. The teacher is good and I can do the positions even though I've only ever takenacouple of yoga classes (before I got pregnant this time). I try to do it in the morning and I feel good all day.

Complete without being exhausting!
This combo workout, relaxation and meditation is a great way to tune into your new baby without the chanting, incense-burning stuff that I don't like about some yoga classes.The workout is easy to follow and gentle and after it's done I feel energized and calm.Rocki's a wonderful teacher and goes through each pose slowly enough to be able to follow easily. The women are real-looking pregnant women - not stick-figure models, which is much better to look at when you're pregnant. I loved the section when you focus on your baby. Talk about early bonding! I highly recommend this. Next I'm trying Rocki's Labor Prep. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Get back in shape after pregnancy with a gentle yet effective and challenging, specially designed Pilates workout. Instructor and new mom Susan Moran-Perich has adapted classic Pilates mat exercises for the special needs of post-partum exercisers. She explains each exercise clearly as her demonstrators show both the ideal form and modifications. Your session can last from 15 to 47 minutes, depending on the components you choose.Pilates is especially effective for new mothers because it strengthens the core abdominal and back muscles, helping you regain strength, control, shape, and comfort. Bonus features: Exercises using the ring ("magic circle") and a 15-minute back safety program. A brief "private instruction" section gives additional technique instructions but is limited to voiceover still photos, not moving demonstrations. --Joan Price ... Read more

Description

The yoga in this video is suitable for pregnant women from the 14th week until the end of pregnancy.The clearly described yoga is demonstrated by pregnant women and is easy to follow if you are new to yoga.The presenters are ERYL HOLT from the BBC’s Fast Show, and MARION SYMES who was a midwife for 12 years and now teaches yoga and birth preparation.Both are qualified yoga teachers and therapists who studied under pregnancy expert, Francoise Barbira Freedman. ... Read more

Product Description

"Yoga Ma Baby Ga" is an interactive mom and baby yoga experience; unique picture-in-picture format allows mom to follow postnatal yoga routine in lower corner of screen AT THE SAME TIME baby participates or watches engaging images and enriching music by her side. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

It's the Baby Einstein of Mommy/Baby Yoga
I was turned on to this video by my fitness instructor and have not been disappointed.What makes it so unique is that the main screen is beautiful pictures for my toddler and seven month old to look at, while only the small portion of the screen shows the exercizes.It's neat, because I can actually get a work out and keep my kids entertained.Sometimes they "play" with me, and other times are happy to sit and stare at the incredible images.A great deal, very interactive.Whoever thought of this is brilliant. ... Read more