I do not claim to be a Yogi in any form of the word, but write this review from the eyes of a beginner who has found Yoga through lack of alternatives. At this point I would call my discovery of the practice serendipitous.
A year ago, my workout routine religiously consisted of running for 45 minutes followed by weight lifting, almost every evening. This discipline came to a screeching halt one morning when I woke up with throbbing pain in both my neck and right scapula. After a swift visit to my General Practitioner, I learned my injuries also included sciatic inflammation. I was officially toast. For months following, every time I attempted to do a cable crunch or run on the elliptical machine I seemed to worsen my injuries. My health routine came to an emergency full stop.
Prescribed physical therapy visits we're a waste of time, more baby sitting than anything targeted or customized to my injuries. I was becoming quite disillusioned. Co-workers and friends began suggesting Yoga as a possible alternative. I began paying more attention to the idea, although the practice touted by elite Lululemon evangelists who contort the consumer's view on the practice as much as they contort their own bodies, gave me a healthy amount of skepticism. On top of that, how could any amount of Yoga compare to the 18 reps of any number of weight lifting exercises I was used to doing? This was followed by, "What other choices to I have?"
I decided to go for it and I am beyond grateful that I did. I will not write lengthy commentary about the benefits of Yoga, only that I found it to be life altering for myself. Going from being able to sit for mere minutes at a time to improving my strength, energy levels, mobility, and flexibility seems like an absolute miracle.
From the time I began this pursuit, I've been looking for dvd videos, books, and local Yoga classes to further incorporate the practice of Yoga in to my intensely, hmmm, "concentrated" lifestyle. Recently I found an insanely attractive iPhone application called Asana Rebel, I refer to it as a Yoga app for the busy woman on the go.
ASANA REBEL OVERVIEW
This app isn't geared towards Yoga professionals but more towards those like myself; casual users just entering the practice. The ideal user for this app is someone looking to improve their flexibility and core strength on their lunch break. Because its an iPhone app, its completely portable. In fact, this Spring I plan to take it with me on outdoor Yoga sessions.
Here are some of the Apps strengths, area's of improvements, and why I continue to use the app.
STRENGTHS
Options
I love the variety of targeted programs which are included ( for those willing to purchase the application.) I am personally enrolled in the Full Body Toner and have yet to find an exercise that re-injures my back. The user has full control over how they choose to incorporate Yoga into their daily lives. Not only does the app provide full programs, but it also includes videos of each individual routines as well.
Aesthetics and Audio
This app is blossoming with a beautiful pastel interface, youthful and encouraging dialogue, and modern music. It successfully makes me feel happy and motivated throughout my daily experience. If it weren't for such thoughtful use of vibrant, energetic and revitalizing elements, I honestly would have dropped the app before giving it a proper chance. Well played Asana Rebel.
Reward Badges
Lastly, and I admit that this may not work for everyone but certainly does for me. I love that at the end of the work out, I feel rewarded with bright pastel confetti! (It's the little things...)
I can then track my progress within the program and from within my iPhone's Health app for further control over my health goals.
IMPROVEMENTS
Too many breaks
The daily workout routines have breaks in between each exercise. To me, Yoga is about flow and all the breaks really cut into that. I understand that for beginners this is quite helpful but having the option to turn these off would be incredible!
Limited Playback Functionality
I really wish it came with the ability to Chrome Cast to our television. When I'm working out at home, staring at a little screen on my phone isn't necessary. I'd love to be able to Chrome Cast to my television so I can perform workout with better visibility of what is being taught!
Confusing Interface
It would be great if the UI was adjusted so that when I enter the app the first thing that I see is my next day's program workout. Currently, it's confusing that I see a small daily goal at the top of my screen but then find I need to scroll down to see the actual daily workout. To be honest, at first I thought the daily goal was my program work out. 5 minute workouts seemed quite brief!
It would also be great if somewhere up top I was provided feedback as to what program I'm currently enrolled in. This is somewhat vague at the moment and for a woman constantly multitasking a million things, any help in this arena would be a huge benefit.
Overall Thoughts
Regardless of areas of improvement, I find entertainment and joy in using this app on a daily basis while achieving my fitness goals and journey back to health. I'd suggest Asana Rebel for the casual Yoga enthusiast who is looking for a quick pick me up during the day. If you decide to check out Asana Rebel, let me know your thoughts!
***Recommended Accessories
Bluetooth Headphones - I have been using this application for a few weeks now and I've come up with one absolutely key item which will change your experience one hundred fold. Bluetooth headphones! Being tangled up in headphone cords and the constant adjustments of wear to stick your iPhone in between exercises is ridiculous and an unnecessary burden. These EarIns are what I personally use and make workouts a wire free experience!
