Scott Cole's Discover Tai Chi for Beginners - Workout Essentials (2002) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)"...because he is alive to difficulty. That is why he meets with no difficulty." ~Lao Tzu
Firstly this workout DVD has so many features it was quite amazing. If you are new to Tai Chi this is a perfect place to start. The music is soothing and exotic, the scenery is beautiful and the instructor's voice is calming.
Secondly, I could actually do the workout on the first try. Tai Chi looks difficult when it is done too quickly. On many other DVDs I felt that I could not learn the moves fast enough so I gave up. Scott Cole moves at a perfect pace.
Scott Cole focuses on guiding you through Tai Chi postures and training techniques. He blends martial and healing arts in order to empower you and motivate you to move in a healing direction. He was named one of the Top 5 Fitness Instructors in the world and has appeared in over 300 publications worldwide.

DVD Contents:
1. Play Features - Plays all the features
2. Chapter Selections - Pushing the Wave, Beautiful Woman Turns Her Waist, Grounded Chi Journey in Hawaii, Parting Horses Mane
3. Special Features - Postures with Narration, Postures With Music, Workbook Slideshow, Hawaii Workout to Music.
4. Audio Features - Dolby Digital 2.0 and 5.1
The benefits of this DVD are immediately apparent:
Renewed Strength
Upper Body Warming - blood flow definitely increases in the upper body.
Increased Flexibility
Increase in Energy and Confidence
This Tai Chi workout is the best I've ever tried. It was easy to learn the exercises and I also had a few great laughs because, well, some of the postures and movements are rather funny the first time you do them.
Once you have learned the moves you can then try the workouts with just music. Once you have memorized the workouts you may find yourself wanting to do the exercises outside. The exercise routines can be done almost anywhere and you need very little space to do them indoors at home.
~The Rebecca Review

Click Here to see more reviews about: Scott Cole's Discover Tai Chi for Beginners - Workout Essentials (2002)

Open up to the pearls of wisdom that organic movement has to offer. Welcome to Discover Tai Chi for Beginners Workout Essentials.Enjoy soaring confidence, reduced stress, and exhilarating movement as you explore the mysteries of the ancient martial art of Tai Chi.Join wellness veteran and Tai Chi expert, Scott Cole, in his private studio and on the timeless beaches of Hawaii as he guides you through the seamless program of basic postures, life-altering philosophies, and healing movement techniques that will reveal your personal potential for exponential growth and change.Renewed strength, flexibility, mobility, and vitality are yours inthis easy-to-follow program that is uniquely formulated for beginners and can serve as continued study for more experienced Tai Chi practitioners.Experience the dynamic energy of over fifteen moves including: Traditional Yang Opening, Snake Creeps Down, Fighting Tiger, Brush Push, Playing the Pi Pa, Wave Hands Like Clouds.

Click here for more information about Scott Cole's Discover Tai Chi for Beginners - Workout Essentials (2002)

Dancer's Body Workout With Patricial Moreno Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have to agree with "YogaGirl" about the music, but it's all a matter of taste! I find the music so awful that, I too, quit the workout. I only got 15 minutes into it. I love to dance but the music has to inspire me. If I want to move my hips, I think I'd do better to put on a Prince or James Brown CD and forgo any instruction!
I thought, from the description on the DVD box, that this was more of a ballet-type workout, so I was dissapointed.
Anyway, if you feel you need instruction in simple jazz dance, want a workout and aren't picky about your music (or like "Broadway style jazz", you'll probably like it. Obviously, other reviewers do.
I doubt I'll ever use it again, and even tho' I didn't pay much for it, I feel like I've wasted my money.
I wanted to write this review, because I've bought various workout DVDs based on reviews, and I've come to see that it's SO VERY MUCH a matter of taste. One person's fave workout could be another person's nightmare, and it isn't neccessarily because of it's merits as a workout.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Dancer's Body Workout With Patricial Moreno

The "Dancer's Body Workout" is a high energy, dynamic routine meant to burn fat and calories as well as enjoy and embrace the beauty of movement and dance.The entire body is targeted through the use of fun and passionate choreography that is designed to increase strength, flexibility and balance.

Get 67% OFF

Click here for more information about Dancer's Body Workout With Patricial Moreno

Leslie Sansone - Walk Away the Pounds 3 Pack (includes weight set) (2001) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have Leslie's Walk Away The Pounds deluxe set, which comes with the 1 mile walk tape, the 2 mile, the 3 mile, and the weighted balls. I started only 3 weeks ago, and I have been doing the 2 mile video every day, and the 3 mile when I feel more energetic.
This really works! I have lost weight and inches already! These workouts are easy, but they WORK! I have cut back on junk food, so I am not doing a major life changing diet, yet its still working. I am a clutz and get very tired easy, I have no coordination, but I can do these! :)
There is no jumping around and you need very little room, which is a plus. I find Leslie very easy to follow and I don't feel lost with whats going on like with Richard Simmons tapes.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Leslie Sansone - Walk Away the Pounds 3 Pack (includes weight set) (2001)

Click here for more information about Leslie Sansone - Walk Away the Pounds 3 Pack (includes weight set) (2001)

The Method Pilates - All in One Workout Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In-between whipping up magic in the kitchen (cooking), keeping your life organized (cleaning, errands), securing a paycheck (work), and making everyone happy (family responsibilities), it may sometimes feel like you are much less than an exercise goddess. After all, who has 90 minutes to exercise?
My solution has been to make time to escape to the workout room. I've found that I can get more done because of the increase in energy. So, technically, I don't have time "not" to exercise.
Once I start the "All in One" workout, I know I am going to feel like a goddess, move like a dancer and feel like I really did work every muscle group in my entire body.
The precise movements in this video do take time to master, yet are fun and creative. With three instructors and constantly changing exercises, you will never be bored. You will in fact experience a new dimension in total physical conditioning. A combination of yoga, T'AI Chi, classical and aerobic dance, and exercises inspired by Joseph Pilates will encourage the integration of the entire body.
You will also find yourself feeling more balanced. Of all the workout videos I have tried, this one excels in developing balance. Improving strength, endurance, suppleness and flexibility are also included in the game plan.
There are three sections or if you add "lengthening," there are four sections.
1. Warm-Up Conditioning is an innovative variety of dance-based movements to firm every major muscle group. This is one of my favorite segments and is 15 minutes.
2. Aerobic Cross-Training (30 minutes) warms your body to fat burning intensity. You alternate between aerobic dance and weight exercises which are not overly challenging, but seem to work well.
3. Centering Makeover (35 minutes) helps you to become more aware of your body's center of energy, balance and strength. It encourages good posture, balance and poise. The anti-gravity techniques help to defy aging.
4. Lengthening (10 minutes) is a cool-down segment, which is reminiscent of yoga. I would have enjoyed another 10 minutes in this section if it had included more yoga stretching. At this point, I was not going anywhere and was flat on the floor anyway! This is a tough workout, but you will love the challenge.
Overall, you will enjoy the variety. The dance segments evoke a "from the beginning of the earth" tribal feel (drums alternate with a more Jazzy track) and make you feel centered. The footwork is challenging at first.
If you keep your feet moving you can work your way past the more complex routines which are not that complex on your third use of this video. They are actually quite fun and the dance is alternated with weights so you get a break from the dance segment to catch your breath. The dance steps do demand your full attention.
I rate this an intermediate to advanced workout. If you have been walking on a treadmill a few times a week, you will have no problem completing the 90 minutes.
Jennifer Kries makes her appearance in the beginning and end of this video. If anyone is a fitness goddess, she is! Soon after she begins instructing you in the Method Techniques, you will realize why. She also seems to have a subtle humor and enjoys encouraging you to push your limits. I especially enjoy the Method workouts when she is the instructor. All the instructors in this video are easy to listen to and inspire you to keep going.
I give this my highest recommendation for all over body conditioning and enjoyment. I am very picky about workout videos, so you know this one is going to be good! The dancing in this video will really make you feel like a goddess and you don't have to have a perfect figure. Dance away and enjoy life, that is what is important!
~The Rebecca Review

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Method Pilates - All in One Workout

Defy gravity defy age!This easy-to-follow full-body Method workout is designed for maximum fat reduction and aerobic conditioning.A complete fat reduction workout!This video integrates all of the elements recommended for a complete workout and includes innovative anti-gravity precision toning and firming techniques.System Requirements:Running Time: 90 Min. Color.Format: DVD MOVIE Genre:HEALTH/FITNESS UPC:071083559860 Manufacturer No:5598-6

Click here for more information about The Method Pilates - All in One Workout

Karen Voight - Pure & Simple Stretch Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is one of the best stretching videos out there, it is very calming and will stretch you from head to toe.
This is one of Karen's earlier videos from 1991, you will see a much more serious Karen than in her more recent videos. I don't think she smiles once in the video, but for me it doesn't take away from a great stretching routine. The entire routine is 40 minutes, starting out with a 10 minute standing routine, then 30 minutes of floor stretching. All the stretches are held for 20-30 seconds, and Karen offers a lot of details and helpful tips for each stretch and also giving options to for deeper stretches. A towel is used to aid stretching for those less flexible. Karen has 3 exercisers with her, one of them is a man who is good to
watch for those with limited flexibility. Those looking for yoga should look elsewhere as this is athletic type stretching. But if you are looking for a relaxing stretch video, this is a good one. The music is new agey/jazz type music which suits the atmosphere well.
The DVD also offers some of Karen's walking tips, you will see a more recent Karen in this segment. There are also clips of some of her other videos featured as well.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Karen Voight - Pure & Simple Stretch

This safe and gentle approach to stretching is a necessary addition to your fitness regime. Your body will quickly respond with a leaner, longer appearance. Experience the simple pleasure of stretching and get a renewed sense of well-being every time you do it.

Click here for more information about Karen Voight - Pure & Simple Stretch

Kathy Kaehler Basics - Total Fitness Workout Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Kathy Kaehler is a celebrity trainer who knows how to tone and condition your entire body in about 50 minutes (DVD says approx 45 minutes). She is a more serious instructor who still likes to have fun.
If you have an hour to exercise this is a good choice. She does give ideas for working out for 5 minutes a day, but I can't see this workout being effective in only 5 minutes. I'm learning you need to workout a lot more than 5 minutes a day if you want a fit body like Kathy Kaehler. Let's be realistic here. I hear that some very famous individuals, who we all know, exercise 6 times a week and for way more than 5 minutes. I've even heard of some actors trying to get in shape by working out for 2 hours a day.
Each segment doesn't have its own warm-up section, so you will more than likely end up doing at least two segments at a time, maybe the first two sections and the bonus at the end would be easy to fit into a tight schedule.
After you do this workout you will want to do the entire workout again and again. It is slightly addictive for reasons I can't quite comprehend. The set is in a living room; so maybe this makes me feel "at home." The set includes a Persian carpet, sapphire curtain, couch and table. A chair is taken from the dining room and you will need a sturdy chair. I prefer to put the chair up against a wall.
You honestly don't have time to be running about collecting the items you need. Things to collect before you start: mat, towel, chair, ball, 5-lb weights. The playing cards are optional but maybe more motivational than essential. Kathy Kaehler uses the cards while doing lunges and once while doing abs. Otherwise, you really don't need special equipment. The yoga mat seems essential when doing some yoga exercises.
Segments:
Warm it up
Cardio Blast
Bottoms Up
Arm Sculpting
Hot Legs
Ab-Solutely Ab
Stretch it out
Where do I feel the workout the most? In my stomach and legs. Who knew leaning up against a wall could be so intense or that my abs could feel so tight in such a short amount of time.
The motivational music keeps you focused and you quickly burn lots of calories, increase muscle mass and reduce your risk of disease.
Just when you think you are "absolutely" finished and all stretched out, the bonus section gets you all worked up again. I think the bonus section should be part of the workout and put back in right before the stretching. Although, if you want a break after doing your abs it can work pretty well.
Health tips include things like "not crossing your legs while sitting" and "walking when angry." The Nutrition tips help you work on your lifestyle and include ideas like drinking vegetable juices as snacks.
Benefits:
Increased Cardiovascular strength
Calories - you will burn a lot if you do the entire workout at once
Increase Muscle Mass - the use of weights helps
Increase Flexibility - not much stretching, but enough to stretch you out after exercising
I look forward to trying more Kathy Kaehler workouts. She works me out fast and furiously and I'm still sort of panting while writing this. This workout should make you sweat and give you a burst of energy. Nice as an afternoon pick up to wake you up for an evening out.
~The Rebecca Review
Reviewing my way to fitness, one exercise DVD at a time...

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kathy Kaehler Basics - Total Fitness Workout

Total body conditioning in 5-minutes a day!Celebrity trainer and NBC’s ‘Today Show’ fitness expert Kathy Kaehler leads you through a series of 5-minute workouts designed to tone and condition your entire body.In this "back to basics" approach to exercise, you’ll hit all three sides of The Fitness Triangle:Cardiovascular, Strength and Flexibility.Plus, you’ll increase lean muscle mass and improve your balance and posture.If you’re new to exercise or crunched for time, this 7 segment workout program is right for you. Complete the entire 35-minutes or choose a 5-minute segment each day:Warm Up, Cardio Blast, Bottoms Up, Arm Sculpting, Hot Legs, Absolutely Abs, or Stretch It Out.You too can perform the same tried and true techniques that have helped shape such famous physiques as Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer, Michelle Pfeiffer and Jennifer Aniston!

Click here for more information about Kathy Kaehler Basics - Total Fitness Workout

Keeping Fit in Your 50s - Strength Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I received this exercise DVD yesterday and used it for the first time today with my friend. She and I are in our mid and late fifties and had been doing a strengthening exercise video together but the VCR died and so we're using the DVD player instead.
I loved this DVD in comparison to the video. The video had a fitness expert leading several every-day type folks in the exercises. I found the other people distracting and they didn't always do the exercises properly and she had to show them how to do them correctly. I got tired of seeing that replayed every time I did the exercises. Also, the expert talked to us between the rep sets. That was fine the first few times, but got tiresome after a while. On the DVD, she goes back and forth between two different exercises rather than having actual rest times. This seemed a more effective use of time.The DVD seemed to be more professionally done than the video also.
I am fairly new to weight lifting so don't have an opinion about slow or fast weight lifting. If you are convinced that slow weight lifting is the only effective way to do weight lifting, you will not want to do this program. She moves at a pretty fast clip. We were sweating at the end of this program and we weren't with the other program. I have read the controversy about whether or not slow movements are more effective. I am not convinced either way yet, so I am going to stay with the faster pace. I liked it much better. I wasn't receiving any of the promised benefits of the slow way after several months.
As soon as I can afford it, I am going to order the flexibility and aerobic DVDs as well.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Keeping Fit in Your 50s - Strength

Muscle is the body’s natural heating system. Regular strength training revs up your metabolism and helps protect against the bone loss that naturally occurs in your 50s. This fact-filled strength guide and workout is uniquely designed to address your body’s changing needs and inspire you to get in the best shape of your life. DVD BONUS FEATURES include tips for creating a personal fitness plan, Keeping Fit Fundamentals, suggestions for beginners, participant biographies and glossary of terms. A complete strength workout and much more including: insights into the importance of strength training in your 50s; exercise tips for achieving maximum results; 40-minute core routine; advanced exercises; and Keeping Fit Fundamentals, a Q&A session with medical experts Lisa Callahan, M.D., author of The Fitness Factor, and Lillie Shockney, R.N., author of Breast Cancer Survivor’s Club. Cindy Joseph, one of today’s most popular print and television models, began her modeling career at age 49. She shares her enthusiasm for exercise and for the amazing potential of life in your 50s.Robyn Stuhr, administrative director of the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at New York’s Hospital for Special Surgery, is a certified exercise physiologist with 20 years of experience in sports training.

Get 10% OFF

Click here for more information about Keeping Fit in Your 50s - Strength

Karen Voight - Slim Physique (1998) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)While this is an interesting concept, will it work for you?
Do you only have 30 minutes a day for a workout? Then, this might be a great solution. Karen has created a variety of mix 'n match workouts. All you do is select the day of the workout. If you are used to working out for an hour, you might have to combine two days.
Monday (Cardio & Lower Body Strength): This is an interesting combination of small cardio segments that seem to increase in intensity. You end the workout with a short floor routine and some stretches.
Tuesday (Yoga Strength): Karen shows you how to get the most out of each move. She will work your body into a finely tuned fitness machine. Compared to other 45-60 minute yoga workouts I have, this seemed to be a very quick workout for me, so adding 40 minutes of walking will take this to a new level. You can do the walking before the yoga and it will warm your muscles so you can go deeper into the stretches.
Wednesday (Cardio & Abdominal Strength): Aerobics workout in which you start with a warm-up routine, then move into more energetic moves. I thought the "bunny hops" were kinda cute. It is like using a jump rope without the rope. Karen is a bundle of high energy and takes you from simple moves to complex routines that not only challenge your body, you have to stay very aware and the footwork is very creative. The aerobics workout is followed by floor routines for abs. Some stretching at the end.
Thursday (Upper & Lower Body Strength): You start with the cardio workout and then work your way into using weights while standing. Lots of upper body work and then you go to the mat and continue working out your upper body. The cool down has some lower body stretches.
Friday (Abdominals & Yoga Stretch OR Yoga Strength): You start with Abdominals and have to get to you mat very quickly. In fact, you might want to be flat on your back with the remote in hand before you even start. Karen seems to be famous for jumping right into the workout, so this is something you have to be aware of. There is no explanation before each workout. The explanations are all during the workouts and the instruction is refined and you make the most of each move. The Yoga workout is on an oriental carpet and is quite a beautiful routine due to the carpet, the music and the lighting, wood floor, etc. This is my favorite section on the DVD. Karen's black cat-suit type outfit also sparkles. This section of the workout is sort of magical and relaxing. I'd like to see more workouts like this! An entire DVD of stretching routines would be bliss. (If you love this section of the workout, you might also enjoy YOGASCULPT.)
Saturday (Cardio & Upper Body Strength): Again, you start with an aerobics routine. You will notice the "swimming" from a workout she did with Elle Macpherson in "Your Personal Best." Karen definitely seems to have a lot of "signature moves" which make her routines easier to do in the long run. Your body knows how it is supposed to move and it is very satisfying to find moves you have learned in other Voight workouts. Karen is quite creative and always seems to be in a state of constant change because she makes up new moves in addition to the old ones, so you really have to focus. Her workouts are as much for the mind as the body. Cardio Circuit Energy Boost is followed by the weight workout you did on Thursday.
Sunday (Yoga Stretch): I started with this routine. It has a nice flow and there are plenty of creative poses. The stretches do seem designed for the very slim as there are some poses in which you literally twist yourself into a pretzel. Never fear, there are only a few of those poses and you can work your way to that level of flexibility.
Tools: hand weights, yoga mat, two blocks and optional foot stool.
Karen presents each workout in a no-nonsense style. She gets right to working out. So, have all your equipment ready to go. You won't have time to go find your yoga mat, weights or block once you start the workout. For the most part, the footwork wasn't too fancy, but there are a few times I just went back to walking until I could figure out the routine. If you are used to aerobic workouts and want a new challenge, Karen will give your mind a workout too. She has a friendly instruction style and a pleasant voice.
Karen Voight has always been an inspiration to me. Her workouts really motivate me. If you enjoy this workout, you might also want to try: Ultimate Circuit Training. It also has B.L.T. on a ball workout, so you don't have to buy the additional DVD.
"Sleek Physique" is a fun DVD to use every now and then for a complete week. It gives you a break from trying to figure out which workout you are supposed to be doing. Karen does the organizing for you. This is perfect to take with you on vacation so you don't get out of your workout routine.
This DVD has previews of other workouts and links to Karen's
website so you can purchase exercise equipment. Throughout this workout, Karen has a workout partner.
~The Rebecca Review

Click Here to see more reviews about: Karen Voight - Slim Physique (1998)

Now it’s easy to lift weights, do low-impact cardio and practice yoga with this personalized cross-training program mapped out for your whole week. At the push of a button, get a different 30-minute workout each day to keep it interesting and fresh. With the convenience of this daily schedule, you’ll have no excuse to skip your workouts and you’ll never work the same muscles two days in a row.

Click here for more information about Karen Voight - Slim Physique (1998)

You On A Diet Workout Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)No weights; no jumping around; not a lot of space needed. You don't even need to wear your shoes. Three different levels at about 20 minutes each make this exercise program so do-able. The exercises tone, strengthen and stretch you and make you feel so good. It may be a little "campy" for some - but stick with it. You will feel 100% better in less than two weeks.
I absolutely love it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: You On A Diet Workout

America's most trusted doctor team and authors of the best-selling YOU series are now translating astounding new medical insights about dieting into news you can use to help shave inches off your waist.Here's a fact: muscle burns 50 times calories than fat, so if you want to lose weight, you have to gain muscle.To do that, you don't need time, money or equipment.Celebrity trainer Joel Harper shows you how to make your body into your gym.This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply.

Get 13% OFF

Click here for more information about You On A Diet Workout

SWAT Workout: Extreme Weight Loss and Fat Burning Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The SWAT Workout is led by Tom Stroup, an actual SWAT commander. He has a great personality and a good rapport with the background exercisers. This is an interval workout. It consists of running in place, jumping jacks, "SWAT" thrusts, mountain climbers, boxers and other drils with the SWAT march between each drill to allow your heart rate to come down. It's a good workout for burning fat, increasing endurance and agility. I love drill type workouts, but even if it's not your thing, Tom's personality makes it fun. The SWAT workout isn't such a killer workout that it has a huge dread factor, but it isn't a walk in the park either. It can be modified for a beginner, but an experienced exerciser can get a good workout too.
Here is breakdown of the chapters:
EXTREME WEIGHT LOSS AND FAT BURNING (body weight only)
Chapter one- warm up- 9:30 MINUTES
Chapter two- SWAT fat burning workout - 30 MINUTES
Chapter three- BONUS-6 pack ABS in 6 minutes
Chapter four- cool down - 8:49 MINUTES
If you're short on time, the 30 minute fat burning makes a great stand alone workout. All you really need to add is a quick stretch at the end.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SWAT Workout: Extreme Weight Loss and Fat Burning

Studio: Well Go Usa IncRelease Date: 05/20/2008Run time: 50 minutes

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about SWAT Workout: Extreme Weight Loss and Fat Burning

Blast Away the Pounds - Indoor Walk (2005) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you are just starting your work out regime or are looking for something a little more low impact Denise Austin Blast Away The Pounds Indoor Walk may be something you might want to look into. The DVD includes 3 complete 1 mile programs. This DVD includes something for everyone.
If you are just starting a work out program and aren't ready for something real high energy you might want to check out the Easy Walk. This segment is especially configured for people who don't exercise regularly. This is a fifteen minute walk.
The Fat Blasting Interval Walk is a fifteen minute cardio walk. This is a faster, more high energy walk exercise. This is a metabolism boosting exercise and it is the equivalent of one mile.
The Power Walk and Tone walk is a very intense walk for the people who enjoy power walking. This segment combines walking and body sculpting techniques. This also is a fifteen minute walk.
What is great about this DVD is that everyone can use this DVD and start at their own pace. If you are new to working out you can set your goals to one day complete one of the more advanced walks on the DVD. I have older family members who were able to complete one portion of this work out over the holidays. So if you are a power walker or just getting started this is a nice indoor workout.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Blast Away the Pounds - Indoor Walk (2005)

Item Name: Blast Away the Pounds - Indoor Walk; Studio:Lions Gate

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Blast Away the Pounds - Indoor Walk (2005)

Crunch - Pick Your Spot Pilates (2002) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The beauty of the Pilates DVD workouts is that you can workout for 10-40 minutes or pick any section or sequence. I recommend doing the entire 40 minutes. This workout goes by so quickly. For some reason, time seems to fly by extra fast. I could not believe how fast each section went by.
There are four 10 minute workouts on this DVD, not just three. There is a Bonus 10-Minutes Total Body Pilates Workout which finally includes moves like the teaser and roll-ups which are essentials.
10 minutes Belly
10 minutes Butt
10 minutes Thighs
10 minutes Challenge
I like that this is 40 minutes, but I wish they would have included a longer warm-up and cool-down section. This routine needs some stretching moves at the end. I guess that is not the focus but I felt like I wanted to do stretching at the end.
The frog move was interesting and I've not see this in other videos. There is a nice flow to most of the movements although if you are used to doing the "side series" all at once, it is broken up between the Butt and Thigh workouts.
There is an exercise at the end of the challenge section that you can do more easily if you have a couch behind you for support. I discovered that today! I've never been able to do one of the exercises and finally did it today!!
I would not recommend this DVD for anyone with lower back problems. The exercises are done much faster than in Winsor Pilates or even Pilates on the Go. There is a great advantage in having a wide variety of workouts because then you can modify some of the exercises to suit your individual needs. Like, her version of the bicycle was much faster than I'm used to, so I just did my own thing and did less.
If you are new to Pilates, I'd recommend the Winsor Pilates and Pilates on the Go before you start this DVD because they don't really cover all the basics.
A fun edition to your routine as Ellen has some variations to regular Pilates moves you might enjoy.
~The Rebecca Review

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crunch - Pick Your Spot Pilates (2002)

3 Targeted 10-Minute Workouts For Your: BELLY - BUTTTHIGHS. Welcome to CRUNCH Fitness! Change your body in 10 minutes? It is possible. Pick Your Spot Pilates targets your favorite body parts to train: the belly, butt and thighs, with three l0-minute workouts. We've made every minute count with classic Pilates mat exercises to tone, firm, and re-shape your body. Gentle yet challenging, and easy-to-follow, Pilates focuses on precise breathing techniques to get in touch with your body's core so you can sculpt without bulk, creating sleek abs, leaner legs, and a bikini butt. Do one program at a time or all three in a row. These mini- workouts are completely self-contained including a warm- up, a fabulous workout, and cool-down all in 10 minutes! If you're time-crunched and need to squeeze in your workouts, this program is for you. You'll be surprised how many l0-minute spots you can find in your day! For all fitness levels. A mat or rug and bare feet are highly recommended. The CRUNCH Philosophy: The CRUNCH fitness program welcomes people from all walks of life regardless of shape, size or ability. We created a workout environment that is not competi-tive or judgmental. Enjoy these favorite classes with imaginative instructors in an atmosphere that makes working out fun. Meet the instructor: Ellen Barrett, Los Angeles. Certified Pilates and fitness instructor. Fitness philosophy: Fitness should lead to health, not only beauty; no matter what size you are, or what age you are, a healthy body IS beautiful. Favorite binge food: I'm a peanut butter nut. If you have any questions or comments about Pick Your Spot Pilates write to: Fitness@anchorbayentertainment.com Please consult your physician before beginning this or any other exercise program.Amazon.com description

Get 10% OFF

Click here for more information about Crunch - Pick Your Spot Pilates (2002)

You: Staying Young Workout (DVD) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The two workouts are really decent. The first one gets you into working out if you haven't or it's a good workout for someone who has limited abilities (or age). The second workout pumps you up a little harder. I think both of the exercise routines are less than 20 minutes. The moves are easy to remember and for some of the warmout moves or stretches I find myself doing them when I have a few minutes on my hands or I'm waiting somewhere.
The chi gong routine is great. I would have liked more of it. It really does boost your energy and I feel extremely at peace and joyful when I finish it.
With all workouts and basically anything in life - you get out of it, what you put into it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: You: Staying Young Workout (DVD)

America's most trusted doctor team and authors of the #1 New York Times best-selling You series, including You: On a Diet and You: The User's Manual, are tackling another major obstacle: Aging. Now, with this accessible and effective DVD, they provide the perfect companion to their new book You: Staying Young. The DVD contains 3 total body workouts all under 20 minutes: 2 levels by celebrity trainer Joel Harper and a Chi Gong workout by kung fu master Karl Romaine. It teaches strength conditioning, mat work, core training, yoga , and even ways to improve posture. These techniques can be used by viewers at any level, from advanced to beginner. All brought to you by the YOU docs-Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen.

Click here for more information about You: Staying Young Workout (DVD)

Crunch - The Perfect Yoga Workout: The Joy of Yoga & Fat-Burning Yoga (2001) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Crunch has put together two yoga workouts that work well for beginners and beyond. Both are taught by Sarah Ivanhoe, a calming yet energetic (for yoga) instructor. These are non-mystical yoga tapes, which is nice if you haven't done yoga before. No meditation or cosmic anything. She teaches a group class, and some modifications are shown by class members.
The Joy of Yoga is a well planned workout that is a great intro to yoga, or a nice cooldown after a longer cardio or weight workout. It is relaxing and energizing, so you can do it any time of day.
Fat Burning Yoga is tougher, more like a high beginner workout. It is not so tough that one should be wiped afterwards, but one will definitely feel worked out. The pace moves, but not too quickly. I don't know how much Fat-burning this really accomplishes, but it will definitly burn some calories, and work out kinks at the same time.
The DVD interface is well planned, and it is very easy to go through each ot the two programs as written. They are also broken into chapters, so mixing between the two is possible, as it putting together a long yoga workout.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crunch - The Perfect Yoga Workout: The Joy of Yoga & Fat-Burning Yoga (2001)

""Upbeat, athletic-style yoga class of basic standing and floor postures."" Shape Magazine Two complete yoga workouts led by a friendly, down-to-earth instructor. They both feature a medley of classic yoga poses (e.g. downward facing dog, plank, warrior, cobra, triangle and mountain pose) ""Joy of Yoga"" provides the improved flexibility and relaxation benefits of traditional yoga without the intimidating attitude. Sara's unusually laid-back style makes it unusually easy to do (e.g. ""if your knees are doing this, just flop them out"" or ""now just kinda wiggle your fingers""). Her emphasis is always on enjoying the movement, not perfecting each one. It has more energetic, upbeat music than most yoga videos. The second program, ""Fat Burning Yoga,"" also features classic yoga moves. Sara's solid cuing and non-mystical style makes it an effective and exceptionally yoga workout. And by helping you achieve a balanced lifestyle and a deeper body-awareness, it provides a key element in weight-loss success (but it's really too slow to immediately burn much fat...). It ends with a short, but intense, segment of traditional ab-focused floorwork. Bright, colorful, airy set. ©1997 & 2001. (80 min.). Note: VHS version is only the ""Fat Burning"" program; it does not include ""Joy of Yoga.""Amazon.com description

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about Crunch - The Perfect Yoga Workout: The Joy of Yoga & Fat-Burning Yoga (2001)

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

Average Reviews:

(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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: New York City Ballet Workout, Vol. 2 (2003)

NEW YORK CITY BALLET WORKOUT 2 - DVD Movie

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about New York City Ballet Workout, Vol. 2 (2003)

Jennifer Kries: New Body Pilates - Beginners Mat Workout (2007) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)NOTE. The Pilates segments on this DVD appear on previously released Jennifer Kries videos: the main Pilates workout is from Hot Body Cool Mind Level 1, and the bonus Pilates Magic Circle segment is from Hot Body Cool Mind Waking Energy.
The main workout on this DVD is a 34-minute Pilates matwork sequence. Jennifer Kries, who is instructing three background exercisers, starts by providing an overview with basic Pilates principles, including breathing and form--an important feature for those new to Pilates. Following this, Jennifer leads the class through a fairly standard mat practice which mostly follows classical Pilates sequencing, although she adds some stretches, decreases the repetitions, shows modifications, and performs only 3 of the Series of 5 exercises. Overall, this workout is most appropriate for beginners, although Jennifer includes some good form reminders that even more experienced Pilates practitioners may find useful.
Also included on this DVD is a 14-minute bonus Pilates Magic Circle segment: here Jennifer instructs one male and one female background exerciser in a nice little full-body workout using the Pilates circle or ring. The first half is performed in a standing position, first working the upper body with the ring between your hands, then the lower with the ring between your legs. There were some unique variations here that I haven't seen in other Pilates ring workouts. The second half of this workout is a short matwork sequence. Jennifer has her assistants perform abbreviated versions of Pilates exercises, such as the hundred and the rollup, and she includes with a single exercise from the Pilates side kick series. Because the ring makes the moves a little more challenging, the level of this workout was slightly more difficult than the main workout, more of an experienced beginner level.
In summary, if you are looking for a basic beginning Pilates mat workout with plenty of instruction and form pointers, this DVD might fit the bill. However, as mentioned above, keep in mind that the Pilates segments here were previously released on other DVDs, and Jennifer frequently refers to those other workouts.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jennifer Kries: New Body Pilates - Beginners Mat Workout (2007)

JENNIFER KRIES:NEW BODY PILATES BEGIN - DVD Movie

Get 10% OFF

Click here for more information about Jennifer Kries: New Body Pilates - Beginners Mat Workout (2007)

New York City Ballet Workout (2000) Review

Average Reviews:

(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.

Click Here to see more reviews about: New York City Ballet Workout (2000)

NEW YORK CITY BALLET WORKOUT - DVD Movie

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about New York City Ballet Workout (2000)