Core Fusion Energy Flow Yoga

THE WORKOUT: Exhale Core Fusion: Energy Flow Yoga

WHO CAN DO THIS: You need plenty of yoga experience.

THE BREAKDOWN: Though not specifically aimed at people in their 40s and up, Core Fusion workouts are a great example of techniques that are challenging—for those of us who have been working out for a long time—but harder on muscles than joints, which is a good thing. Joints get temperamental as we age.

This is pumped-up yoga for energy and strength, not tranquility. (Except the tranquility that follows a good workout.) Five 10-minute workouts include two athletic sun salutation series, a core and glutes segment, some qui dong and hip openers. You'll do push ups, standing splits, warriors, balances, twists, and more. Even the bonus closing stretch and Savasana segment is energetic. Everything moves along at a steady but not frantic pace, and if you manage to fit in just one 10-minute segment you can still feel like you’ve accomplished something because these people don't mess around. I like doing three plus the Savasana, but I don't know that I've managed to do all of any single 10-minute segment yet without taking a rest now and then. That's OK, gives me something to work towards.

THE SWEAT FACTOR: Yes indeedy.

BUT IS IT FUN? Not party hat fun, but very satisfying.

WHEN IT'S OVER: My legs are a little wobbly, no kidding.

GEAR AND APPAREL: Mat, blocks, strap.

FINAL WORD: I’m a fan.

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