Tracy Anderson Perfect Design Series Set Review

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(More customer reviews)I was thrilled when I pre-ordered the Perfect Design DVD in December. I only ordered the 3rd disc because of the cost, plus I consider myself an advanced exerciser. Tracy's Mat workout was different from any workout I'd ever tried, and I absolutely loved it. The movements flowed, it had an artsy/dancelike undertone to it - very feminine, extremely effective. Her webisodes have been up to par with her 2008 workouts, surely the PD series would meet the expectation level set by her Mat workout. Her unique arm sequences & ab sequences placed her in a new category. Results from the arm segments in the Mat workout were proof enough that she was not even comparable to other trainers(IMO).
There are several instructors with programs to help women slim down thighs/glutes, elongating the legs by creating a toned/sleek look. That's great for those who tend to be pear shaped! I've had thin legs all my life - it takes minimal effort to tone my legs. But arms, nothing worked to slim them down. A toned/sleek look was something I could only dream about. Then Tracy Anderson does the impossible. So, her Perfect Design Series focuses on glutes!?
The PD series, Tracy chooses to do voice over - seemed a little lazy. A majority of the workout is leg/glute work. You need a sturdy chair, and you will use it....too much. Maybe if I had the SAME chair she did, I wouldn't have been as annoyed? Sure some of the moves were unique, however, the same muscles could be worked without making it so complicated. One positive with using the chair, you do engage your core a lot! Otherwise, it was BORING!!
Arms consisted of one segment, no weights. Because it is voice over, she makes vague comments which are of no help. The camera will focus on her face, showing the upper arm (nothing past the elbow) as she says to make sure you watch the direction her palms are facing. You can't see what her hands are doing?! She looks as if she is improvising as she goes along. The setting is a loft with big windows at night with lights dimmed. Not the best choice for a segment you need to really focus on. The ab work was alright, again, not up to par with her Mat workout. It wasn't challenging for me, just blah.
On a positive note, if you are new to Tracy Anderson or didn't like her Mat workout - you will most likely enjoy this! If you are looking for some unique moves to target your lower body & enjoy chairs...this is for you =) It's still a unique workout. Seriously, great lower body work! The ab work will be interesting as well. A change of pace is always refreshing, and I recommend this if you haven't tried her previous workouts.
If you like & own the Mat workout, I wouldn't waste my money on this. I'm going to stick to the Mat DVD & webisodes for now. This seems thrown together and sloppy considering the hype around her workouts. If you wanted some arm & ab work comparable to her previous DVDs, you won't find it here. This was a HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT for me. Maybe my expectations were too high?

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The first of its kind from Tracy Anderson, the Perfect Design Series 3 Disk Set allows the viewer the unique opportunity to progress through 3 levels of muscular structure training. A must have for anyone who owned the Tracy Anderson Mat DVD. Sequence I, II and III included. DVD's are 60 minutes each. No Special Equipment is needed.

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Billy Blanks: Ultimate Tae Bo (2007) Review

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(More customer reviews)You'll be sweating calories when you do this workout. It's fantastic and effective and tough, but very worth it. I've done this now four times and never think I'll make it through, but somehow do and even though it's early stages, I'm beginning to see the hint of results.
It's 90 minutes of almost non-stop combinations that Tae Bo are known for. It's his longest workout to date (you can stop at a set 59 minute breakpoint) so you must already be fit. There are all the regular Tae Bo moves like fast feet and quick steps etc so you should have a basic knowledge of his work to make it easier on yourself although he does cue very well. Then after those combo's there is aerobic/toning intervals.
I'd never recommend this to someone who's just beginning to work out or to a Tae Bo newcomer. However, if you are already fit and want a big challenge for yourself, then this is for you. You'll be sweating hard and buring calories like crazy. This is a great fun workout.

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World renowned fitness expert Billy Blanks has developed a NEW Tae Bo® workout with signature Tae Bo moves for maximum benefits and optimum results. This high-powered, high-energy, exhilarating workout will help you attain a toned and sculpted body, strengthen your core, burn fat and increase your overall fitness level to give you a total body workout. Longtime fans of Tae Bo and newcomers alike will experience a workout unlike any other with Billy providing the inspiration and motivation to work hard. Have fun while you challenge yourself!ULTIMATE TAE BO is the workout to do when you want a super intense workout. This workout involves non-stop, high-energy moves that will provide an extreme, heart-pumping fitness challenge. Billy keeps your whole body-feet, arms, legs and shoulders-moving every minute. You ll sweat hard and feel energized as you experience the ultimate Tae Bo workout!

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The Firm - Jiggle Free Arms (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)This workout is part of the Firm's 4th Body Sculpting System which introduces the Transfirmer, a 5 in 1 piece of equipment similar to the Fanny Lifter but longer in length. It comes in 2 pieces, a 6 inch and 8 inch platform used individually for aerobics, stacked on top of one another for leg presses and tall box climbs, in an incline position for aerobics or strength work, and in a side by side position. It is a very versatile piece of equipment and is very stable.
This workout is led by Stephanie Huckabee, who is joined by 4 fellow Firm Master Instructors including Alison who shows beginner modifications. The workout is just over 30 minutes and alternates upper body work with aerobic segments.
You begin with a simple warmup using the 6 inch portion of the Transfirmer, then you will move into upper body work working the chest and triceps. Pushups are first, with varying counts and tempos, halftime and 2-2 count. These are done on the Transfirmer but you have the option of just doing them on the floor if that is more comfortable. Then you will lie on the Transfirmer set up in the incline position or on the floor and do bench presses, first with both arms, then alternating one at a time, I use lighter weights for this segment as the one arm at a time is more challenging. Then you move in triceps bench presses followed by pec flies. Lying tricep extensions complete this section, where the same weight is used throughout.
Next is a short hi-lo impact cardio section, Alison performs all low impact, jacks, shuffles, calf pumps and knee lifts are some of the moves you will see in this segment.
Tricep and shoulder work is next, you will start with tricep dips, then move into a tough shoulder segment starting with overhead presses with palms inward, then you will do overhead presses with rotation (twisting in at the top). Then you will quickly grab lighter weights and do a segment of front and side deltoid raises with some variation. My shoulders are always on fire after this segment, tough.
More cardio is next, this time a fun step segment using the Transfirmer in the incline position. Hamstring curls, rock steps, sambas, knee lifts and repeaters are some of the moves that you will see.
Now it's time to work back and biceps. You will start with double arm bent rows in a seated position, then you will move into hammer curls, some of them alternating arms. Then you will stand up and do wide bent over rows with a slightly lighter weight, then move back to biceps with angled bicep curls. All of these have varied counts and tempos.
More step aerobics are next, this is a fun segment that is peformed on the 8 inch section of the Transfirmer. I myself use the 6 inch section as does Alison, it's just more comfortable for me. Knee lifts, knee tapovers, turn steps, over the tops, and hamstring curls are included in this segment. Lots of fun.
The final upper body segment follows, working the shoulders and biceps. You will start with clean and presses, then move into bicep curls, then upright rows, all of these with some alternating of the arms. You will finish out with a set of rear deltoid lifts with varied tempos.
More step aerobics on the 8 inch section of the Transfirmer follow. You will see turn steps, over the tops, V steps, hamstring curls, A steps, jacks and other moves. Cooldown and stretch immediately follows.
This is a great compact workout, hits all the upper body muscles plus includes a variety of cardio in just 30 minutes. I often use this in combination with Jiggle Free Buns, which is a similar workout but for the lower body. I find that I get a great workout with these 2 in an hour. Stephanie is one of my favorite Firm instructors and she does not disappoint in this workout. She has Jiggle Free Arms herself that I would like to have one day. But you will also see Annie in the back who has great definition, definitely the buffest Firm instructor I have seen in a video. I highly recommend this one.

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05-51454 The Firm: Jiggle Free ARMS Synopsis: For the past 20 years, The FIRM® has been changing millions of lives with their groundbreaking fitness programs. In a time when dance aerobics was the craze, they pioneered the idea of combining aerobics with weight training, providing effective workouts with fast results! This method is the center of The FIRM® philosophy today, and tens of thousands of FIRM Believers™ across the country will agree that it really works!After years of perfecting their techniques, The FIRM® now brings you their latest offering—The TransFIRMer Series™! By combining brand-new, specially-developed equipment with experienced FIRM® Master Instructors, this series is their best yet! The new TransFIRMer™ was designed with multiple uses in mind, and has 5 different configurations to take your workout to the next level. The fun cardio moves will get you melting off the pounds quickly, and the sculpting moves will help you define a more shapely figure. So what are you waiting for? Once you start, you will see results so quickly that you’ll never want to stop! Jiggle Free™ Arms Is there a little too much "squish" in your upper body? Well, don’t worry—the solution is here! If you want dramatic upper-body results, sculpted shoulders, and sleek arms, this workout is for you! FIRM® Master Instructor Stephanie Huckabee leads you through this 30-minute upper-body blast to help you strengthen and tone your arms and give you maximum results! As a part of the great cross-training Jiggle Free™ series, you can get the upper body of your dreams with Jiggle Free™ Arms!deserve! Approximately 33 Minutes Color

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Step Aerobics Review

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(More customer reviews)I used to do Gilad videos in the early 90s when I was in high school and I always liked him. I thought his videos were challenging. I decided to purchase this dvd to see what the deal was with Gilad today, but this DVD is from like 1993. So it's pretty dated as far as their clothes go, but I still love it! If you like Gilad, you'll like this. You either love him or hate him. I love him! I think he's GREAT! Its a very challenging, fun video and it gives you the option to intensify the movements to make it even more challenging. The setting is at a beach resort in Hawaii and although some people might find this a little hokey, I was totally into it. I could almost imagine myself at this beach (yes wishfull thinking..) And even the best excercise dvds are pretty corny, this one is really good. I only gave it 4 stars because I would have like a little more difficult combinations, but they were still pretty challenging none the less. If you need to lose weight, this is the way! The ab workout is great too! Gilad defiantely stands the test of time! Definately purchase this workout if you want to burn calories (which burns fat!!) and also step aerobics certainly tones your legs too. If you don't have a gym membership and work out at home like I do, you can be pretty limited on what your equipment is. But step aerobics really tones up your calves and thighs. This is an excellent DVD and I definately recommend it for all fitness levels. If you are a beginner, don't do the arms and don't jump the movements and walk in place if you need to catch your breathe. If you are advanced then you can definately power it up and get a great workout!

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This creative routine builds cardiovascular endurance and burns excess fat at a fast rate. A nice variety of moves without complex choreography will keep your body in motion. The BONUS abdominal section will help firm and reshape your stomach area as well. Set on Waikiki Beach with Diamond Head in the background, this workout is recommended for the intermediate to advanced participant.

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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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HIP HOP ABS DVD - Last Minute Abs - Shaun T (2007) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is another DVD off Hip Hop Abs w/Shaun T. who has a great personality, enthusiasm, energy, friendly, good instruction & love of dance.
As my title stated, this is only 5 min abs w/counter on the bottom. It's all standing, ab twists, knee lifts, standing crunches, etc. Some of it has a dance flair, but most is flat out fitness. Because of his personality, I gave it 3 stars & it's honest in how little content it is. I felt it only a tiny bit, I could have felt more doing reg dance in the same amount of time. I did get a little bored. Though if the one song that plays wasn't a recent top 40 & Shaun wasn't so enthusiastic, I would have died in boredom & turned it off. Those in shape would feel nothing. Those out of shape will love it.
The extra Dance Floor tutorial has pretty good real music, is very easy dance moves, mostly different step touches, 3 step turn, a double "snake" w/lifted leg & simple but stylish fwd grapevine for "battling" You won't get winded at all. All the first moves taught are repeated into a routine as you learn the next move. Very simple stuff, those who can dance will learn nothing. Those who can't dance will learn a few moves, even get the feel of being more into the groove.
I didn't think this needed a whole new DVD, this could have easily been extras on his other DVDs.

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Get hot, sexy abs with Shaun T's exciting new program! Using his revolutionary Absolute Engagement TM technique you'll TILT, TUCK & TIGHTEN your way to get flat abs and a leaner body without sit-ups or crunches. Even if you've never danced, you'll learns his easy Hip Hop moves in no time!- LAST MINUTE ABS: Ready, Set, GO! Just give Shaun 5 minutes and you're guaranteed an ab workout that's fast, fun, and effective. Plus, you'll be singing out loud to this famous tune and before you know it you're not only done, you've got great abs too! Perfect when you're short on time but still want to work on that six-pack!- BONUS LEARN TO DANCE: Last Minute Dance

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The Abs Diet Workout 2 Review

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(More customer reviews)I was expecting something along the lines of the book "The Abs Diet Get Fit, Stay Fit Plan," which offered a lot of variety. This is partly why I'm so disappointed. This appears to be "Abs Diet" in name only.
First off, all fitness DVDs should state up front what equipment you will need. This one does not. You'll need a mat, a pair of dumbbells, and for intermediate/advanced exercisers, a fitness ball to use as a weight bench.
Unlike the previous DVD, there are is no diet information - just workouts divided by frequency (3 to 6 times a week), and then by level. Regardless of which level you choose, you'll get the same thing: a 3-minute warm-up (static stretches and very light cardio), an abs segment, an intermediate/advanced weights circuit routine, and a cardio workout. The only difference in the entire thing is in the abs workout segment: beginners do 10 minutes, advanced do 12.
The exercises in the 25-minute circuit routine are straightforward, fairly standard (chest presses, shoulder presses, kickbacks, lunges, squats, crunches, etc.), and the same for ALL levels. Beginners will have to watch for modifications, even if they chose the "Beginner" menu item. Overall it flows well, and though the music is still a little annoying, it is not as bad as the first DVD.
For cardio, there's a 25-minute "speed interval" workout - a high/low intensity mix of jogging, straddle hops, squat jumps, jumping jacks, knee lifts, etc. There are no modifications, so this part of the DVD may be difficult for new exercisers, people very out of shape, or those with knee/back problems.
The breakdown in general is as follows:
3 Days a Week
Mon and Fri - Abs and Circuit training (35 min)
Wed - Circuit training and speed intervals (50 min)
4 Days a Week
Mon and Fri - Abs and Circuit training (35 min)
Wed - Circuit (no abs) (25 min)
Thu - Speed intervals (aka 'cardio') (25 min)
5 Days a Week
Mon, Wed, Fri - Abs and Circuit (35 min)
Tue, Thu - Speed intervals (25 min)
6 Days a Week
Mon, Wed, Fri - Abs and Circuit (35 min)
Tue, Thu, Sat - Speed intervals (25 min)
For mix and match, you can combine the 3-minute warm-up with either 10- or 12-minute abs, plus 25 minutes of circuit training (w/modifications) and 25 minutes of hi/lo cardio intervals.
My 3 stars are maily due to the lack of labeling about equipment, an intermediate/advanced workout labeled as beginner (if it's "Beginner," the workout should be tailored as such), a cardio workout that's the same for all fitness levels, and a suprising lack of variety. I'd recommend "The Abs Diet Get Fit, Stay Fit Plan" book over this DVD.

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David Zinczenko, Editor in Chief of Men's Health Magazine, with Ted Spiker reveal how to reshape your body in The Abs Diet Workout 2, as based on the new, best selling book The Abs Diet Get Fit, Stay Fit plan.The Abs Diet Workout 2 introduces a new workout system -ABS3- based on simple, highly effective principles to help you lose weight and tone your body.The Abs Diet Workout 2 is the perfect home fitness program for beginners as well as those experienced with the Abs Diet system.The program provides motivation and demonstrates an excercise regime that anyone can fit into their day, and is designed so that viewers can watch it over and over.The Ads Diet Workout 2 is also incredibly flexible, providing workout programs for 3, 4, 5 or 6 day a week structures, along with excercise options of varying intensity as your fitness level increases.

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