AM & PM Stretch

I got this DVD because I work out just about every day and I wanted to find a really good stretch video that I could do a few times a week to really stretch my muscles and relax my body. The reviews for this video were very good so I ended up getting this one. I will start by saying what I love about this video. It is really an entire body stretch in each segment (there are 2 35-minute stretch segments, one for AM and one for PM, I prefer the AM one), you really stretch each and every major muscle group and even small body parts you may normally forget about, like your wrists and ankles. I feel relaxed and refreshed by the end of each stretch. There is also a 20 minute power stretch included and that is a nice option to have on a day when you want a quick workout that won't kill you. The reason that I only gave it 4 stars is merely because of the coaching in the video. First of all she (Madeline Lewis) is confusing because on the tape she is always working the opposite side that she tells you to work, so once you get the moves down it is easier, since you don't have to look at her for direction anymore, but in the beginning it is VERY confusing. The other problem is that for much of the video she doesn't really explain proper breathing habits while stretching. I used to take a stretch class at my old gym once a week and breathing is crucial while stretching (fortunately I know to always begin to start to exhale right BEFORE you begin the contraction), so the fact that she doesn't really explain when and how to do it properly was disappointing to me, especially since it is such a relaxed video, there is plenty of time to explain the breathing. I do enjoy her calm, relaxing voice though and overall this video has been a wonderful addition to my routine and the way I feel afterwards is priceless.

I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia early 2011. I am in my 40's and could not get around as well as my own parents. The RA drugs were making me so sick I had to quit taking them. The loss of strength and range of motion in so many of my joints and limbs has severely limited what I could do. Lost my job. My home had to be modified with bars, and I have to use lighter weight dishes and pans and so many other changes. It's been quite depressing to say the least.On my last visit to the RA Doctor he suggested yoga to help gain back some range of motion. In my search I came across this dvd and got it too. I love this one best!!!What you'll see: a woman doing the stretch routine in an outdoor nature setting. What you'll hear: an instructor's voice describing the the series of stretches you see being performed by the woman. Also heard in the background is very pleasant instrumental music. What you'll feel: Smooth transition from one stretch to the next. The transitions from one stretch to the next are so fluid and logical. You'll feel aligned and ready for daily activity after the morning routine. You'll feel cleansed and relaxed, unwound from the days physical toll after the pm routine.At present I am able to do 90% of both am and pm routines. My range of motion is drastically improving which will allow for more activity and improved quality of life. Strength will improve as well and I'll be able to move on to further challenges. Like the bonus routine included on this dvd: power stretch.I believe that no matter what challenges I move on to from here, this dvd is a keeper and will remain one of my most frequently used dvds.Another thing I'd like to add is that a good stretching routine can not be over emphasized. Even if you are a person having no physical limitations or challenges you'll benefit greatly from making this wonderful stretching routine a part of your life. It will enhance the quality of life you plan to live for a long time. I learned the hard way, but at least I've learned.

Customers considering this DVD need to keep in mind that this is to help get your joints loosened and your blood flowing in the morning or to help you decompress after a long stressful day. For that it is an excellent choice. Madeline Lewis is a calm, competent and positive instructor.I am a male in my mid-forties I cycle almost everyday I do sun salutations every morning (except Mondays when I do the AM Stretch) do resistance and calisthenics as well as kettlebells. I did P90X six or seven years ago and learned the importance of stretching. I have used this DVD once a week for the past 2 years. The stretches start out slowly and gradually work you from head to toe. You do have to be able to lie on the ground and get up, so keep that in mind. The instructions are good, the breathing reminders are also excellent, the only thing odd is the mirror cueing. It doesn't make sense when the video is shot from multiple camera angles. If it were from a static camera position then it might make more sense. Other than that, the music is fine and the scenery is good but most of the time you should be concentrating on the stretches and your breathing.Stretching does not become obsolete, it is not a program you do for 90 days and then quit. If you want to live well into old age stretching is a good practice to make into a habit. And this video is good for beginners intermediate and advanced users.

If you are looking for a routine that first warms up the muscles before stretching you really might like this DVD. There are two main sections, one for morning stretches and one for night. I find I enjoy the night stretches more and can do them anytime of the day. Some "other" routines I've tried are too fast, the stretches are held for too short a time and you don't feel relaxed. This set of two stretch routines by Madeleine Lewis are different.Stretches are held for enough time that you feel you are really getting the benefit from them. Also you don't have to twist yourself into a pretzel to do these stretches. Some movements are inspired by yoga but are not that difficult. I felt this was a slow easing into stretch that is appropriate for people like me who are approaching 50. I no longer enjoy fast stretching, I want to take my time.~The Rebecca Review

I agree with the other reviewers - this is a very well produced DVD with clear instructions.I am recovering from M.E. and want to get fit again without too much strain. The stretches make me feel I am coming back to life; they are just challenging enough, though there is a faster, tougher workout for those that are up to it. I was surprised how much it worked my stomach muscles and legs; I wasn't expecting that and it makes it really good for toning and posture, as well as losening tight muscles. The instructions don't get monotonous, I have done this every day for a fortnight and it isn't getting on my nerves to hear the same thing over and over. The scenery is stunning too.

I really enjoyed this DVD; my husband and I are in our mid-thirties and relatively fit. We just need something to motivate us to stretch at the end of a long day. It does the job; after doing the PM section of the dvd I go to bed feeling relaxed and comfortable, and the tension in my legs and the tightness in my hamstrings feels so much better. Also, the setting and music of the DVD are very peaceful. I really recommend this for people wanting gentle but effective stretching to ease their bodies after a long day, or warm up in the morning. This isn't for gym bunnies or pro yoga practitioners who will find it too slow or basic. But even if you are relatively fit this will stretch you in ways you need.

I bought this on recommendation from other reviews - I have chronic back pain (muscle spasm) for over 20 years. I do the am stretch 5 mornings out of 7 and noticed the difference within a few weeks. I wish I had done this years ago. Brilliant DVD - lovely setting, great instruction and offers chellenges to work towards. I was surprised to find myself doing the plank half way through but I just do it for half the time and aim to work to doing it longer - excellent core exercise. I was surprised how effective this DVD has been. Just brilliant.

I follow the 'AM stretch' session as often in a week as I can and now have a routine - at the end of the session Madeleine says 'and have a great day'. My session is complete when I say 'Thank you Madeleine'. A bit of fun at first but has now become a very sincere 'thank you' from me. I bought the DVD after learning about the power of stretching from an excellent remedial massage therapist and began the habit of regular stretching. I agree with all the comments - the session somehow doesn't get boring and Madeleine's instructions are right on the mark. The DVD was already of great value to me and a purchase I was very happy with. Then, after a severe back injury and specialist treatment, it became invaluable. I turned again to this DVD to support my recovery. At first I could do little of it but watched and did what I could very tentatively. Over the weeks it became a fantastic measure of my improvement and I gradually was able to do more and more which was very good for my morale. Now I can do nearly all of it and feel so much better afterwards. So glad I bought it when I did and had it to hand when I most needed it. Thank you Madeleine.

Been using this DVD for a while now. Madeleine is a great instructor, with thorough explanations of what you should be feeling in different parts of muscles and explaining the pose she wants you to do to a t. I found that quite often I was not breathing because of the poses, but then she comes right in there and says remember to breathe, at the point I was running out of air.Fantastic, worth the money.