The Ballet Workout Vol. 2: Strength and Conditioning (1991) Review

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(More customer reviews)Melissa Lowe tops herself with this sequel workout tape which emphasises several major exercises, and all of the positions. However, this tape also has a downfall, Ms. Lowe doesn't explain the steps as well as she did in the first video. But, if you are wanting to start ballet or need a guide to practice at home, I recommend her to everyone!

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Discover the joy of movement and the beauty of dance with the secondprogram in this series by Instructor Melissa Lowe. Melissa introduces two new workouts that will help you strengthen your muscles, get rid of cellulite, reshape, condition and tone your body. This workout will not only help you create the body you have always wanted, but will also help you gain an overall sense of well being. Previous ballet experience is helpful but not necessary. Success on both workouts lies in performing the exercises in the correct position and with the correct posture. Melissa Lowe received early training at the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre where she was an apprentice to the company. She danced professionally with the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, the Houston Ballet as a soloist and the Pacific Northwest Ballet as a principal dancer. She is currently a Professor of Ballet and the Director of Early Movement Education at the University of Arizona.

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Pure Barre: Pershing Square 1 Review

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(More customer reviews)I have and LOVE the first Pure Barre workout. This workout (Carrie with 3-4 PB instructors) looks to have been filmed in a nice bright room with lots of windows with Carrie instructing and giving tips. Much brighter than the original PB. This workout does not disappoint in any way! It is a non-stop burn fest for your thighs, glutes and hip area. After the traditional barre type warmup (knee ups), it's right down to the mat for some plank work, tricep dips knee pushups and back to standing at your support. Carrie uses a small ball to be held behind knee as you squeeze and pulse in familiar barre moves. There are more done without the ball. Having to hold that ball in place really cranks it up a notch and gets into the hamstring intensely. There is also some inner thigh standing work (popping the heels). Carrie and class hold onto the side of a wall for support, you can use a chair or anything really for a support. Working the same leg, you move to the floor and continue frying with various lying moves extending the leg from the hip. My hip was begging for mercy. There are also some quick stretches thrown in between. After you repeat on the other side, you move on to abs holding on your ball. I prefer to use my pilates ring for this ab series. I have done it using a ball and feel it intensely but I just feel like I get a better grip and squeeze going then with the ball. You could do it with nothing and still feel the abs working intensely :) There is a nice soothing stretch at the end. The DVD also has some extras where you can get more tips on form and is chaptered.
I have been rotating Pershing 1 & 2 and I have to say I love them both but I find myself most sore from this one and I think that's from the lying floor work. The 2 DVDs compliment each other -- get both!

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Lift your seat, tone your thighs and arms, flatten your abs and burn fat in record-breaking time with the Pure Barre Technique!This 45-minute full body workout will not waste your time. Pure Barre is the fastest, most effective way to change your body, producing results in just 10 sessions. You will be amazed at your narrower, leaner new physique.Pure Barre creator Carrie Rezabek leads you through a system of exercises targeted at the parts of the body that need it the most. You will begin with a warm-up to melt away fat and shape your upper body.Carrie then guides you through specific isometric movements that target your legs, seat, hips and abs. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a a stretch section, which will help you achieve the slim look of a dancer.The Pure Barre Technique truly is the answer. All you have to do is this DVD 2-3 times per week and your body will change- it is that simple.To mix in a more intense workout in to your Pure Barre routine, try the second DVD in this series- Pershing Square: 2.

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Center Stage: Turn It Up (2008) Review

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(More customer reviews)I enjoy dance movies and have the first "Center Stage" on dvd. I wasn't sure what to expect from the sequel but decided to check it out when it premiered in Oxygen channel. I found myself hooked within the first 10 minutes. Kenny Wormald and Rachele Brooke Smith are attractive and talented young actors who do a great job of carrying this movie. Both actors are clearly cast for their dancing and athletic abilities, as well as their good looks, and for novice actors, they do a creditable job.
The story centers around Kate Parker (Smith) and Tommy Anderson (Wormald). Kate dreams of attending the American Ballet School in NYC but unfortunately doesn't make the cut at audition. Tommy - a former hockey player turned ballet dancer - gets in. When Tommy spots Kate at the audition, sparks fly. Dejected Kate takes a job at a bar/dance club that is owned by Tommy's friend and Tommy falls for Kate. Tommy offers to help Kate improve her ballet skills, while Kate helps Tommy improve his "hip/hop-street dance" skills. They hit it off and fall in love. Conflicts arise when Tommy's wealthy classmate Suzanne (Sarah Jensen) gets in the way and Kate is torn between her fear of rejection (as she plans to re-audition for ABS) and her dreams of being a ballerina.
If you love dance movies like "Center Stage," "Step Up" and "Save the Last Dance," then this movie is for you. The dancing is more of a blend of the first "Center Stage" and "Step Up" with ballet moves mixed in with hip-hop/street dance. Both leads are very talented and live up to the demands of the complex dance routines. Smith started out as a gymnast and it shows. She is also charming and lights up the screen with her big smile and gorgeous eyes. Wormald was a back-up dancer for Justin Timberlake and was in the reality series "Dancelife." With his brown eyes and intense stare, he is definitely swoon-worthy.
Back from the first "Center Stage" are Peter Gallagher (in the same role) and Ethan Stieffel (Cooper Nelson - now an instructor), but don't expect Amanda Schull and Sasha Radensky from the first film. In all honesty, the new leads are interesting enough to hold the story so I spent little time regretting their absence. The music blends well with the storyline and the dancing is superb.
If you're going in expecting to see a good made-for-tv movie with great dancing, attractive and talented leads and an engaging storyline, then you won't be disappointed. Think of it as "Center Stage" meets "Step Up" with a bit of "Flashdance" sprinkled in and you're all set. For my part, I enjoyed it and certainly plan to purchase the dvd when it comes out. And if they ever do release the soundtrack, then I'll be in line to buy that, too.

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Return to the Center Stage phenomenon with new passions and partners in the amped-up, high-energy Center Stage: Turn It Up. All Kate Parker has ever wanted to do was perform with the American Ballet Academy. But when she doesn't get in, she learns that it takes more than just natural talent to succeed in the dance world. With a turn in a cutting-edge hip-hop club and the help of a handsome former hockey player-turned-dancer, she may yet manage to make her dreams come true. Peter Gallagher (TV's The O.C., Center Stage), Kenny Wormald (TV's Dancelife), Ethan Stiefel (Center Stage) and a cast of hot, up-and-coming stars rock to a new beat in this unmissable sensation!

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The Red Shoes - Criterion Collection (1948) Review

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(More customer reviews)Many of Powell and Pressburger's films explore the life of the artist and the power of the artistic imagination. In THE RED SHOES and PEEPING TOM, most notably, the writer-directors reveal the sacrifices that art sometimes demands from its acolytes.
Balletophiles often praise THE RED SHOES, but one need not be a fan of ballet to be amazed by the film's emotional power and extraordinary staging. On the Criterion DVD, the saturated reds that represent the artist's blood sacrifice, and the cool aqua-blues that represent the (false) promise of life and romance outside of art, appear with unmatched vividness. Powell is a master of color, and has influenced a generation of filmmakers (through the advocacy of his admirer Martin Scorcese) with his theories about how color and music contribute to the thematic impact of a film.
Anton Walbrook, who plays the impressario Lermontov in THE RED SHOES, is one of Powell and Pressburger's favorite actors, appearing to stunning effect in THE LIFE AND DEATH OF COLONEL BLIMP as well. Moira Shearer, the actress/dancer who plays the lead, made her reputation on THE RED SHOES. She also dances in one segment of the rarely-seen Powell/Pressburger masterpiece THE TALES OF HOFFMAN.
The Criterion DVD has the beautiful sound and picture we've come to expect from the Voyager Company. Interesting disc features include: an audio track of Jeremy Irons reading from the original Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale, the complete text of Powell and Pressburger's novelization of the movie, an extensive collection of Scorcese's memorabilia, and a comparison of the Red Shoes Ballet with the filmed storyboard sketches the directors used as a guide. One wonderful addition for Powell and Pressburger fans is their filmography -- brief descriptions with cast lists and dates for all their films, most of which also have film clips included. It's a chance to see scenes from some of the long-lost works in their catalogue.

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A glorious Technicolor epic that influenced generations of filmmakers, artists, and aspiring ballerinas, The Red Shoes intricately weaves backstage life with the thrill of performance. A young ballerina (Moira Shearer) is torn between two forces: the composer who loves her (Marius Goring), and the impresario determined to fashion her into a great dancer (Anton Walbrook). Criterion is proud to present The Red Shoes in its DVD premiere.

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Ballet Shoes Review

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(More customer reviews)BALLET SHOES (starring Emma Watson... celebrated for her lead roles in the Harry Potter films...along with an all-star acclaimed ensemble cast) is absolutely wonderful. I personally am in love it. Targeting a very large and underserved audience which is best defined as "moms and their daughters", Ballet Shoes is a film about realizing ambitions; a film where its tag line `dreams do come true' is really the `spot on' underlying message of the film... and the storyline. I believe it is destined to be a huge success for it is a tale of inspiration indeed.
A big-budget Granada film production, originally for the BBC, Ballet Shoes is based on the literary classic penned by Noel Streatfeild that women especially are very familiar with as key reading material from their childhood. A costume drama with absolutely stunning cinematography, the film portrays 1930's London with a sense of dreamy realism. For those who recall the box office smash "You've Got Mail", the book is the one being sought after that Meg Ryan launches into a verbal expose about. Ms. Ryan was right on the money, as is this adaptation of the tale.
Ballet Shoes is the story of three orphan girls; Petrova, Posie and Pauline (Emma Watson) who are raised as sisters after being brought together by a rich, world traveler as babies. As they grow up, each girl develops a dream of their own. Pauline wants to be an actress; Petrova longs to be an aviator; Posie wishes to dance. Circumstances bring them together, and together they vow to go down in the history books. "We three Fossils vow...". This vow launches the three Fossil sisters on their voyage, a journey that they travel individually as well as together, one that can only serve to inspire any young girl who watches the film.
On a personal note, I watched this film with my 8 year old daughter and 6 year old son. While my son fought to pay attention (not surprising), my daughter was riveted throughout the film. The appearance of `Hermoine' as a teen brought her into focus early on, and then the tale itself kept her eyes and ears wide open. She's asked repeatedly to watch Ballet Shoes again, which of course she has. My son, of course, is back to watching `his thing', Spiderman, Superman and The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers...
Ballet Shoes, in a certain sense, is a long form faerie tale, and I recommend it with no reservations whatsoever as superb family viewing.

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Dreams do come true… Emma Watson (Hermione from Harry Potter) stars in Ballet Shoes, a heartwarming and uplifting film based on the beloved, best-selling novel by Noel Streatfeild and featuring an award-winning cast that includes Emilia Fox, Victoria Wood, Richard Griffiths and Eileen Atkins. "We three Fossils vow to put our name in the history book, because it is ours, and ours alone…" With these words, three orphans, raised as sisters, leave their sheltered lives and embark on an exhilarating journey that takes them to the heights of the stage, screen and sky! DVD EXTRAS: Exclusive 20-Minute Interview with Emma Watson Deleted Scenes, Ballet Shoes Audiobook Excerpt

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The Tracy Anderson Method Dance Cardio Workout DVD Review

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(More customer reviews)I wanted to write a review from someone that had been doing Tracy's workouts for more than just a couple of weeks, because I feel like that was clearly missing from the reviews I have read in the site so far, so here it goes...
I mostly recommend this workout for people that have had some dance background or enjoy dance type aerobics classes at the gym or have done other dance workout dvds. If that's the case this is for you! If you consider yourself clumsy and not a dancer then really, what are you thinking? Find something else. So for you dancers and dance inclined people out there here's the scoop...
You are going to have to resign to the fact that this is a choreography oriented workout. However, this is not darren's dance grooves and she's not going devote the entire time to counting out and teaching you the dance because I think her point is you learn it and then just pop the dvd in and get straight to it. She breaks it down for you and I recommend you watch that part, but that doesn't really help you learn at all you'll forget once she starts at full speed. Use the format where she faces away from you. For sanity's sake the best way to learn this dance is to take 1-2 dances a week and learn them by just trying to follow along. So do warm up do two routines then stop it and go to the mat workout. Yes you will mess up but if you've gone to any dance class you know the key is to keep moving and then jump in again. She repeats the same choreography over and over throughout the song just switching sides so eventually it sinks in. After six weeks you should be able to get through six dances and some of you might linger here because after dance six it gets a bit difficult to get through all of this. That's ok eventually add the last two. By this point you will realize that her lack of cueing is actually and advantage because it makes the video less irritating.
Also, I must state that this is a bit of bouncy workout so if you are not a runner or a jump roper your calfs might not be ready for this. From my time doing this I have found that if you give yourself more than two rest days your calfs will get even more sore on the second day but doing the dance helps release some of that lactic acid so its best to just keep doing and eventually your calfs will be up to it. Also, some parts where there's a lot of jumping (plie-jacks for example) you might have to substitute doing another move in order to manage getting through the routine. This is a good rule of thumb if its too hard move from side to side or do something simple for that move and then get back in the routine until you build up the stamina.
What's the catch then? Well, it is hard to do both workouts 5-6 days for a total of two hours a day. Who has that time? So if you go for this goal you will not keep it up and your money will go down the drain cuz you'll shelve this dvd in no time. But in the beginning just alternate them each day for five days. I wish her mat workout had chapters, which would help only do legs one day and arms another. I fast forward (and catch my breath) and do this for a 1hr 30 min workout (skip her mat warm up after doing cardio, you are plenty warmed up). This works best for me and is worth trying.
Basically, the best way to lose weight is to do her cardio 5 times a week. If you can get through the entire thing and do the cardio 5 times a week for two weeks, while eating healthy (nothing drastic) you can lose 2-5 pounds in that time. Her mat workout is important though because working out your muscles not only tones but helps you shred more calories faster, not to mention I sweat tons doing her leg series alone. I have the mat workout and not the post pregnancy but I wouldn't buy both just buy one of these and save some cash. I'm sure either will get you slim in no time to start with.
Lastly, the music is not the best I KNOW but it helps you keep pace... just try not to think about it too much. After you get the moves down you can try them to other songs you like (mute tv/blast radio). Like she says, don't over think it, just get in your zone (kind of like running) and you'll be done before you know it.
Hope you find this helpful.

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The Tracy Anderson Method Dance Cardio Workout DVD

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Barbie in The Nutcracker (2001) Review

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(More customer reviews)Beautiful. Exquisite. Captivating. There aren't enough superlatives to describe the quality of Barbie's first, and hopefully not last, movie. I bought this for my daughter thinking that it would be fun video for her to watch (Barbie lover that she is at 2 1/2) as the holidays approach. I didn't expect to fall in love with it myself. In amazing computer animation, the Nutcracker is retold through the eyes of Barbie playing both the roles of Clara and the Sugarplum Princess. The story is strong, with lots of action and tenderness: the plotline includes, of course, Prince Eric as the Nutcracker, the Mouse King and his legions, and lots of adorable sugarplum fairies. The dance sequences will take your breath away as the graphics artists have integrated actual footage of the dancing of the New York City Ballet into their computer animated scenes. I only wish there had been more of them, but I will take quality over quantity! A few of the scenes were a little rough for my 2-year old, but really no worse than a Disney movie. Even if you're not a fan of Barbie, pick up this movie for its sheer storytelling and visual value. All in all, I have to say that this is destined to become a favorite for girls (including us moms!) of all ages.

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This modern adaptation of the holiday classic casts Barbie in two roles, Clara and the Sugarplum Princess, as she embarks on a musical fantasy adventure for girls of all ages. New York City Ballet's Peter Martins choreographed this wonderful animated film, with music by The London Symphony Orchestra, and featuring the voice of Tim Curry as the Mouse King.

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Barbie in The 12 Dancing Princesses (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)A nice return to good Barbie movies. This is (loosely) based on the fairy tale of the 12 dancing princesses. Rewritten and remodelled for a Barbie-style ballet movie.
Genivieve is the 7th of 12 princesses. Her father calls for the Duchess Rowena to look after them as his wife is dead. The duchess has plans of her own, and with her strong-man servant and her monkey, she works to take over the kingdom and get rid of the 12 daughters. She starts by taking all the fun and colour out of their lives, trying to quash their spirit.
Genivieve, however, discovers a secret magical kingdom below the floor of their bedroom where the princesses can escape at night and dance the night away until morning. They have their dancing shoes from Eric, the Cobbler who also happens to be extremely gorgeous and nice - and not a little in love with Genivieve. When Rowena discovers the secret stairwell she seeks to trap the princesses down there forever. But toghether they escape, and rush to save their father who Rowena is attempting to kill.
It is a lovely movie, there is lots of dancing which is beautifully done given there are twelve characters it is easy to form nice chorus lines etc. 3 are little Kelly sized girls, there are 2 teenagers and the other 7 are adult sized. There could be some confusion, luckily they are named alphabetically from A to L according to age - unfortunately many have very un=princessy names like Lacey, Hadley and Courtenay.
The animation is lovely although there is an odd piece of oddity in the filming. For some reason near the end when Genivieve is luring Desmond away from his post she seems to go out of focus slightly, it might be my particular player.
There are some nice extra features, the making of the movie is excellent and my children were fascinated by it.
I really like the toning down of colours. The castle and environs looked colourful without the overwhelming brightness of some of the earlier movies.
Overall this is a great fun movie which my children have enjoyed a number of times and I also enjoyed. It can be watched many times and still find something new. I just hope that the Barbie makers will be working on another singing movie. the Princess and the Pauper still rates as the top Barbie movie ever - the songs were inspired and fun. My only real gripe on this movie is the enormous number of merchandise from this - 12 characters!

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In Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses, Barbie will dance her way into your heart in this fun and enchanting all-new adventure. Join Barbie as the beautiful Princess Genevieve and her eleven dancing princess sisters as they discover a secret entrance to an amazing, magical world where wishes come true! But when their father is in danger of losing his kingdom, Princess Genevieve and her sisters must work together in order to save the day and their father. They learn that the power of family can overcome all obstacles!

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Exhale: Core Fusion - Body Sculpt Review

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(More customer reviews)The first thing that impressed me about this video is its intelligence. It's a thinking person's workout. Exercises are strong on authentic Lotte Berk since that was a significant part of this couple's background, with additions from Pilates, yoga and classical weight training. They do an excellent job of talking you through the exercises, explaining what it will do for your body, thereby keeping you motivated from a positive place, which is so much nicer than the commonly used negative motivational techniques where somebody is screaming you through a breakneck pace. They have you concentrate on how your body is feeling the exercise, stopping momentarily if you need to, then picking it up again - instead of counting monotonous repetitions for you. This approach is so much more pleasant and sensible. The workout is muscle toning, organized as interval training. Interval training has been proven by medical research to be much preferred for promoting fat loss and heart reserve capacity, instead of long term cardio. The pacing promotes the mind-body connection and focus, which reminds me of my ballet training from years ago, or hatha yoga. You have a chance to breathe and think during the exercises, without feeling additional stress due to the exercising. Much appreciated after a hectic day at work.
The video had a warm, intimate, personal trainer feel to it with the husband and wife team demonstrating the exercises together and instructing by means of a voiceover. They alternated showing the advanced version of an exercise and clearly indicated which person you should watch if that's the level you wanted. Setting is what I call "New Age living room," lovely décor, warm earthtones, water feature, and subdued lighting, plenty of camera shots from various angles. Music so unobtrusive I didn't even notice what it was, although there is a music only option in the special features after you get tired of the instructional. My husband really liked the fact that a man was showing the exercises also - funny how the same movement can look a little different on a man. He also liked the fact that it was a husband and wife team instead of a group of women. We're pressed for time, like to do things together, and this video fills the bill nicely. No more scheduling TV time for mutually exclusive workouts. Top quality production, first class all the way. I think this delightful couple with impressive credentials has set a new standard for fitness videos, and I look forward to more offerings from them in years to come.

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"Lose the jiggle without the gym" --Marie Claire
A quarter of a million people have transformed their bodies at the exclusive Exhale Spa--now you can get these same results at home.
Build a strong core, develop washboard abs, improve posture, and create a tighter, firmer physique with Core Fusion Body Sculpt. This total-body program employs exercises that tone and sculpt your deepest, hard-to-reach muscles so it’s more efficient and effective than traditional strength training. You’ll use your own body weight as resistance and small hand weights to really challenge and build your muscles.
Segmented into five focused workouts of just 10 minutes each, these exercises target the whole body, from arms and shoulders to glutes, hips, thighs, and abs. The unique Core Fusion system will strengthen your body, quiet your mind, and improve your overall well-being while redefining your physique from head to toe.
Core Fusion creators Fred DeVito and Elisabeth Halfpapp have over 50 years’ combined experience teaching Pilates, yoga, dance, and Tai Chi, disciplines that inform the Body Sculpt workout. They are founding team members of Exhale, a leading mind/body spa with locations around the country.

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The Ballet Workout (1987) Review

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(More customer reviews)I started dance classes three years ago at the age of 38, and bought The Ballet Workout to help develop more muscle control in my hips and legs. I've done yoga, Pilates, belly dance, aerobic dance, but really, nothing compares to ballet for gaining the strength and muscle control I'm looking for.
Melissa Lowe is a good teacher. Her voice is pleasant, and her descriptions of movements were very precise, complete, and not at all redundant. As a beginner-level adult, I needed that level of explanation so I could execute movements correctly without injury.
Some things, like Ms. Lowe's stage makeup and poker face may seem jarring to the 21st century viewer, but keep in mind that this tape was produced in 1983, one of the very first dance instruction videos, before teachers had much collective experience before a video camera.
For me, the moves are difficult to execute, even at the tape's "beginner level", perhaps because of my age and inherent lack of flexibility. I would have appreciated being able to see what the exercises look like when executed correctly, although the dancer cannot yet achieve complete turnout or raise the leg fully. Melissa Lowe's verbal description was a great help for me to be able to make a good guess, but a demo would have worked even better.
I look forward to seeing more of Melissa Lowe's video instruction, as in these last twenty years, she will have become a prodigious teacher.

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Discover the joy of movement and the beauty of dance with the first program in this series by Instructor Melissa Lowe. The elegant way to achieve the body you want, attain the look and grace of a professional dancer and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Perfect for all ages, this workout will help you condition, reshape and tone your body. This workout will not only help you create the body you have always wanted, but also will help you gain an overall sense of well being. This workout has been divided into two levels. Level I is designed for those with little or no previous ballet experience. Previous ballet experience is helpful but not necessary for level II. Success on both workout levels lies in performing the exercises in the correct position and with the correct posture. The same amount of time spent on ballet exercises as spent on more traditional forms of exercise will produce dramatically different results in shaping your body.

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Callanetics 10 Years Younger in 10 Hours - Amazon.com Exclusive Review

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(More customer reviews)First point: I am a guy, in my early 40s and out of shape - years of beer and fun have taken their toil.
I have tried weightlifting - it is like watching the wimp from the Charles Atlas comic book advertisements - not my bag.
I have tried aerobics - also called "fat man bouncing." I hate the elliptical machine and the treadmill.
This video, practiced in the privacy of your home, will get your flab firm in quick time
I have owned and worked out with this video for a number of years and recently purchased and began using the DVD version.
Give this workout a chance and stay with it. In my late 20s and early 30s I used this video to quickly get in shape and shave off inches of the ubiquitous male beer belly.
Over the years, I added on weight and like many men my age, found the relaxing comfort of the television and brisk workout from the remote control each evening to be my preferred workout.
After a thorough scolding from my doctor, it was time to get back in shape. I surfed to Amazon and bought the DVD version of Callanetics.
There are a few things to take into account when using the newly issued DVD.
1.Watch the thing all the way through, perhaps two times to really learn the exercises.
2.Ignore the 1980s fashions and bad music. That isn't what you are here for.
3.The newest version of the DVD is chaptered, which helps you get through the idle chatter.
4.Focus on form before you focus on reps. Ignore the music and the chatter on the video and take time to ensure your legs, back, hands, etc. are in the correct place. By three or four workouts, your attention to form will make a tremendous difference.
5.After about 5 or 6 workouts, go ahead and turn off the sound and listen to what you need to in the background why you work out. I will occasionally return to the sound to help refresh form.
6.If you are severely out of shape, like I was, focus on just Callanetics for bit. Then after 12 or so hours (four weeks at three times a week.), incorporate a brisk walk or run on off days to really get the full fitness.
I have lost three inches in my waste and my "Dunlap" tire on my belly - that part of the middle aged male belly that creeps over the belt - is gone. After even the first hour, you will feel invigorated and relaxed.
The next day, you will feel the workout while walking up stairs or putting away dishes in the kitchen. This is no work out for wimps or just for women.
The sweat on my forehead and my raising heart during each workout will vouch for that.

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Now you can actually look ten years younger in ten hours.Callan Pinckney, author of the revolutionary best-selling book Callanetics(a perennial New York Times Best-Seller), personally demonstrates her innovative deep muscle exercise technique that can literally shed years off your figure in hours without putting pressure on your back.Unlike other exercise programs that stress hard jerking motions, Callanetics is a series of small, gentle, precise motions consistently applied that activate the body's largest most powerful muscles to quickly tighten hips, buttocks, inner and outer thighs; flattenthe tummy; lift the bust and firm underarms and tone the entire body.It will also dramatically improve your posture. You will feel the difference after one hour and most people actually see a difference after two hours.By following the simple 60 minute Callanetics workout twice a week, the body you always dreamed about is only hours away.

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Pure Barre: Ballet, Dance & Pilates Fusion (2008) Review

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(More customer reviews)I love barre workouts. I own a lot of DVDs devoted to this method and it's very effective, especially on the lower body. Like another reveiwer stated, the set and the production quality is bad. Really bad. It looks like something a high school AV Class threw together for a class project. The set is dark and ugly, the camera work is inadequate, cutting off body parts, and failing to show different angles to help with proper form. The instruction, is so-so, although I felt form pointers and modifications were a bit lacking.
If you're looking for really good, thorough instruction and a little more refined production quality, check out Lotte Berk, or if you can get your hands on some Bar Method DVDs, definitely do that. This isn't a bad DVD for a first try, there is just lots of room for improvement.

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The Pure Barre Technique (PBT) is the fastest, yet safest way to change your body. PBT fuses dance, Pilates and Lotte Berk exercises while utilizing the ballet barre to create the most intense and effective 55-minute workout that exists. The results of PBT are: flat abs, thin thighs, a lifted seat, toned arms and sculpted backs. PBT is an intelligent exercise technique - each strengthening section of the workout is followed by a stretching section in order to create strong, long, lean muscle without the bulk, while increasing range of motion. PBT will not only quickly transform your body, it will clear your mind, help you focus and contribute to a happy and healthy life. All you have to do is this DVD 3 times per week and your body will change - it is that simple.

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The Tracy Anderson Method Presents Post-Pregnancy Workout DVD Review

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(More customer reviews)I know this DVD is aimed at post-natal women, but the way it targets common trouble areas like the abs, hips and outer-thighs makes it a wonderful workout for any woman. I did have a baby 16 months ago, and have had a terrible time getting back in shape and losing the baby weight. I keep buying new workout videos, looking for that magically inspirational workout that is going to help me get my body back, with no luck, until now. I am completely hooked on Tracy Anderson! Her DVDs are beautifully produced, the setting is elegant, the music on this DVD is classical and complements the tone of the workout very well. Tracy's demeanor is encouraging and kind, she explains the mechanisms of each move quite well, but she does not talk too much.
The workout itself is about 45 minutes long, and is composed of a brief warm-up, a lot of ab work, some side lying ab work, some leg and glute lifts and squeezes, and then two series of arm exercises, one without weights and one with light weights, and then it finishes with a cool down and stretch. The workout is definitely challenging, even for a more experienced student, but not overwhelmingly hard.
The greatest thing about both this post-natal workout and Tracy's Mat Workout is that they are fun - the time flies by - and they leave you feeling strong, a bit sore, but totally refreshed. I am actually disappointed if I can't find the time to workout - definitely no "dread-factor" here! Highly recommended - Thank You Tracy!

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The Tracy Anderson Method Presents Post-Pregnancy Workout DVD

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Ballet Body Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great total body workout DVD featuring a fusion of ballet toning, yoga, pilates, and light weight training. The DVD features very good instruction by Jennifer Galardi and is not difficult to follow along with. It is a workout for toning and flexibility and does not feature specific cardio work, though it may get your heart rate up at times. There are two other girls working out with Jennifer and one does show beginner modifications.
The entire workout from start to finish clocks in around one hour long. The DVD has a chapter menu to choose either the entire workout or to choose shorter segments. You can choose from the warm-up (12 minutes), the strength segment (13 minutes), the balance and length segment (13 minutes), floor barre segment (11 minutes), and the stretch segment (12 minutes). I didn't see a mix and match option though.
The warm up is very fluid and features plies, ballet arm movements, and some yoga stretches. The strength segment features a leg plie segment, standing ab/core work, and upper body work with weights. The balance and length segment features standing leg work, a yoga strength series on the mat (downward facing dog with leg lifts, plank with tricep pushups, etc), the floor barre segment is done on the mat and features barre and pilates style leg work and abdominal work, the stretch segment is yoga inspired and finishes with a short seated meditation.
I enjoyed the DVD and felt as if I had gotten my strength and stretch work done all in one workout. I also finished feeling very relaxed as if I had completed a yoga class. It's an elegant workout.

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If you've always desired the sleek toned muscles of ballet dancers, this workout is for you! Jennifer Galardi has created five mini workouts blending exercises from classical ballet, Pilates and yoga to deliver a workout that elongates and strengthens your entire body AND feels amazing. Each segment delivers maximum benefits to ensure you'll see results whether you pick one or all routines. Choose from: Warm Up, Strength, Balance, Floor Barre, or Stretch or put all of them together for an hour long intense toning and stretch session!

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New York City Ballet Workout, Vol. 2 (2003) Review

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(More customer reviews)Workout Description: about 30 minutes of toning (17 minutes floor work, 12 minutes standing; primarily focuses on lower body with some ab and minimal upper body work) with 11 minute warm-up, 6 minute stretch, and 17 minute "cool-down" which includes dance routine for a total of 63 minutes
Workout Level: mid-intermediate to low advanced
Instructor: Peter Martins (NYC Ballet Master in Chief) in a voice-over with his British accent. He is encouraging and helpful (and less snobbish than NYC Ballet Workout 1). You will need to watch the dancers closely and even watch the video glossary at the end; the tips given are sufficient but just barely. (This is another area improved from NYC Ballet Workout 1). Both sides are worked evenly, and you are expected to mirror the dancers' movements.
Class: 1-4 dancers from the NYC Ballet (2 women, 2 men)
Music / Set: You can choose between a gorgeous classical music soundtrack or a more modern jazz-inspired vocal soundtrack, both with or without narration. The interior set is minimal, as the focus is on the dancers.
Equipment Needed: optional mat for floor segment. The workout can be done barefoot, with ballet slippers, or you can use the special split sneakers (from Bloch or Capezio) the dancers use in some segments.
Caveats: Familiarity with ballet is extremely helpful; familiarity with Pilates or similar methods is also helpful. You don't have to be a dancer, though.
Additional Comments: You'll need some space for this workout, particularly for the movement combination. However, at 5'8" I'm able to fit it in my 6' by 8' space without getting too cramped or having to be too creative.
This, along with NYC Ballet Workout 1, is one of the few exercise videos in letterbox. The choreography and production are beautiful. Sarah Jessica Parker appears on the back cover but nowhere else.
This program consists of 16 exercises divided between a moving warm-up, floor exercises (including a stretch, ab series, and "floor barre"), standing center, reverence, and a movement combination. (There are fewer pauses in between exercises, as in NYC Ballet Workout 1.) There is no cool-down after the movement combination, so you may want to delay the reverence until after you've completed it. The movement combination isn't enough to count as good cardio, but it's fun to see if you can complete it even half as gracefully or effortlessly as the dancers.
In comparison to the New York City Ballet Workout 1, this is more like Jessica Sherwood's Ballet Boot Camp (1 or 2). NYC Ballet Workout 2 has more explanation and more routines. It feels more like a regular class that ends with practicing a routine for a recital. Personally, I have both NYC Ballet Workouts and use them equally. I'm so excited to live out my childhood dream of being a ballerina (although just in private-there's a reason why this is just a dream) that I can't help but enjoy these workouts. Are they perfect? No. Are they as fun as a real class? No. Do they make you sweat buckets? No. Do they help you increase your flexibility, strengthen your muscles, improve your balance and posture, and make you feel like you're a graceful dancer when you're done? Absolutely.
The DVD comes with a booklet offering workout tips and a summary of the program. (Don't let the photos of the super-flexible dancers intimidate you; you won't have to do any of those stretches in the workout.) You have the option to select chapters or program your own workout, so if you only want to do part of the exercises, you can. (For example, you can do the warm up, floorwork, and stretch one day and the warm up, standing work, and Reverance another day; you could also focus on lower body.) There are "Quick Fix Target Exercises" for the abdominals, shoulders & back, and thighs & buttocks, where a dancer demonstrates an exercise to add on; it's then up to you to do them on your own. There are 2 documentaries: "Tendus, Tutus, Tights, and Takes," which is a behind the scenes look at filming the workout, and "Born to Dance," which combines bios with a day in the life of each of the dancers. (It's worth seeing for Aesha's commercial debuts.) In addition, there are trailers and promo spots for Danskin and NY Sports Club. You may find the book version of the exercise program helpful, particularly if you have little ballet experience, but it is not necessary.

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NEW YORK CITY BALLET WORKOUT 2 - DVD Movie

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Element: Ballet Conditioning Review

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(More customer reviews)I have to start out by saying that I'm not normally a ballet fan or have done ballet since I was 4 or 5, but I wanted to try this to mix up my current routine and use different muscles for some cross training. I am really happy with how great this workout is.
It's an intense lower body workout with ballet inspired moves. Because you work deep into muscles, it's designed to help you get that long lean body look that ballet dancers have. Elise is a good instructor with great cuing so you know what to do next at all times. I love the outdoor setting (instead of the inside of a studio for a change); it's great to do a workout that has been done outside to make you feel like it's Summer all year round and motivate you that little bit more.
I never thought this would be a workout that would be for me, but it's very enjoyable and fun and you feel the next day all those muscles you've used and I can't wait to see the results from this. I love it.

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Ballet Dancers always have slender bodies that are both strong and lean with lovely proportion and gorgeous body lines. One of the greatest secrets to a dancer's body is ballet conditioning which focuses on all muscle groups. In this unique program your muscles will work smoothly in unison to create a long streamlined silhouette with flat abs a lean lower body and beautifully defined curves. Moving gracefully and fluidly through this series of exercises you will strengthen and stretch your way to a dancers body. Elise Gulan has over 18 years in dance education including Ballet Pointe Tap and Jazz. She was a principal soloist for the Virginia Ballet Company where she danced for seven years appearing in productions such as Copelia Swan Lake and Nutcracker Suite. She brought her love of expression through movement to her new career as a certified personal trainer and instructor of Yoga Core Fusion® and Core Energy Flow®. Elise enjoys helping her students to find their inner strength and to energize their joy of life through physical and mental fitness. Element is proud to support the Arbor Day Foundation. For every four ElementDVDs purchased a tree will be planted (up to 20000 trees annually). In addition to generating oxygen trees provide air pollution control and decrease atmospheric carbon dioxide levels thereby reducing global warming. www.arborday.org.

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New York City Ballet Workout (2000) Review

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(More customer reviews)This DVD is excellent for toning and lengthening your muscles, and will definitely work up a sweat. The workout is divided into 17 segments, which can be viewed all at once, one at a time, or as part of four sections. Exercises 1-4 are warm ups, includes some dance steps that get your blood pumping and some nice stretching. 5 & 6 work your abdominals. 7-9 are "floor barre," which means you lie on your back and keep everything stable except the moving leg -- very effective. 10-16 are leg work, such as degagees, tendus, and grand battements. Finally, 17 is a cooldown with some stretching. Note that there is no instructor-led dance segment after all that barre/center work, as there is in a dance class.
There is one main thing I don't like about this DVD -- the verbal cuing is terrible. At the very end, the narrator says, "Rather than follow my instructions, follow the dancers, the music, and listen to your body." Yeah, well, tell me how to follow the dancers with my face in my knees. A few viewings should make this much less of a problem, but the first times through may be frustrating, especially during the (almost silent) cooldown, when your neck is craned around to see what's going on.
I don't know if someone with no ballet experience would find this DVD very rewarding. Although no special equipment is required, there is no explanation of technique, and the narrator makes frequent use of ballet terminology. Perhaps in conjunction with one of the ballet instruction videos or books, this would be better for beginners, but I think a semester of ballet classes would be more reward for the money in that case.
Given those caveats, this is a great workout to intersperse with your other strength and aerobics workouts.

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NEW YORK CITY BALLET WORKOUT - DVD Movie

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