Jillian Michaels - The Ultimate Workout 3 Pack (Cardio Kickbox / Jillian Michaels for Beginners: Frontside / Jillian Michaels for Beginners: Backside) Review

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(More customer reviews)This set of workout videos are great for beginners because the movements are not over the top, there isn't a bunch of jumping and crazy moves and you most definitely sweat, even if you are in pretty good shape. My only complaint is that the tapes are a little long. The backside is 54 minutes and unless you are motivated, you can get tired and give up too quickly. The cardio kickboxing is about 25 minutes and just the right length. Frontside is good at 42 minutes but once I learned the routines and didn't have to wait for instruction between moves, I can do the circuits in about 30 minutes. I would recommend it for those who are serious and more than casual exercisers.

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BLACK PACK compiles three workout programs taught by Jillian Michaels a personal trainer who has appeared on the television fitness series THE BIGGEST LOSER. "Jillian Michaels For Beginners: Frontside" features cardio and toning exercises specifically designed to develop muscles while "Jillian Michaels For Beginners: Backside" focuses on strengthening the gluteal muscles and hamstring tendons. Lastly "Jillian Michaels The Biggest Winner!: Cardio Kickbox" offers a vigorous workout that puts the emphasis on obtaining a leaner stronger body.Format: DVD MOVIE Genre:HEALTH/FITNESS/EXERCISE UPC:796019809849 Manufacturer No:80984

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Weight Watchers: Low Impact Aerobics (1995) Review

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(More customer reviews)This work out program has been excellent for my weight loss needs. It has great moves and great music. The work out is always fun and modivating! I do this work out video 5 times a week for the past 3 weeks and have lost 6 Ilbs! I encourage anyone with 45 minutes of their time a day to try it out! It really does work! It works if your work it!

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Jillian Michaels for Beginners - Frontside / Backside Review

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(More customer reviews)I LOVE this workout! Jillian is MUCH more encouraging in this workout than in her previous ones. I also love the clean white set - no clutter to distract me from a good, solid workout. The exercises on both workouts are circuit style, incorporating both strength training and aerobic movements, and both workouts give you a nice full body workout - but the exercises in each workout are different: FRONTSIDE targets the muscles in the chest & shoulders (also works abs and triceps); BACKSIDE focuses on strengthening your back and firming your butt (it also hits the biceps!) The instruction is excellent; this one's a keeper!

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The first step in fitness just got a little easier.Join Jillian Michaels as she takes you through beginner circuits of cardio and strength exercises that will help to melt away the pounds and build muscle. The 43-minute FRONTSIDE workout focuses on the muscles in your chest, shoulders, triceps, abdomen, and quadriceps.The 54-minute BACKSIDE workout targets your back, buns, hamstrings and biceps.Join former contestants from The Biggest Loser - Kimmi Dove, Shane Giles and Pete Thomas - as they workout along with you and provide limitless motivation with their inspirational interviews.

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Jillian Michaels For Beginners: Frontside Review

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(More customer reviews)If you are amazed by how much weight contestants lost while on the reality show: "The Biggest Loser," this workout gives you an idea of how much effort it takes to see real results in a short amount of time. This workout is perhaps one of the most difficult I've tried due to the circuit-style training. To be honest, this will be enjoyed by anyone who is at least intermediate and it will give beginners lots to look forward to.
Jillian Michaels puts Shane through the paces first with the first circuit that consists of a series of exercises that is repeated three times. So, you get three sets of exercises of 10 repetitions each as you work through jumping jacks (I used a small aerobic stepper or you can walk in place), push-ups and squats using a chair.
Kim joins Jillian for the second circuit as she enjoys a cardio interval of walking then does "bench dips," which I think are a little easier when you hold on to a kitchen counter instead of a chair at the start and then finishes with squats. If you are doing 5-8 reps at the start that is fine and then you can work to 10.
I was seriously not keeping up with the third circuit, which seemed at a faster pace with jump rope, chest exercises and squats. By the time I was on the floor and then back up standing, I was only able to do about 5-8 reps. I didn't think that holding the weights while jumping up and down was a good idea because this puts strain on your wrists. The jumping jacks seem better if you are walking and raising your arms at the start. If the exercises are too "bouncy" or "high impact" then you have the option of walking, which I gratefully did instead.
On the fourth circuit Shane returns for jumping jacks, shoulder exercises and chair squats. I was amazed to make it to circuit five where you march in place and actually get a bit of a break and then do some fun oblique work while working out your legs at the same time.
By circuit six, you will literally feel the fat melting off you as you again do jumping and then do some seriously good lateral raises and a plank that tests your endurance. I didn't make it to thirty seconds the first two times, but with Jillian motivational teaching style, I braced for the last one and held it for thirty seconds even by then I was shaking and about to fall over.
This workout is seriously geared towards fat burning and will be enjoyed most by intermediate exercisers who want a good cardiovascular challenge while working out arms, legs and abs. My endurance was seriously tested and everything seemed more challenging because of the circuit-style workout. If you are ready for some serious exercising, Jillian will show you the way "my love," as she says. She has a real sassy teaching style which keeps you smiling.
~The Rebecca Review
P.S. You may also want to look for Kneipp Sparkling Herbal Bath Tablets - 3 oz. when buying this DVD. The Juniper one is great for soothing tired muscles.

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Join Jillian Michaels as she takes you through six beginner circuits of cardio and strength exercises that will help to melt away the pounds and build muscle. This 43-minute workout of fun and easy exercises focuses on the muscles in your chest, shoulders, triceps, abdomen and quadriceps. DVD Includes: 6 beginners circuits & Interviews with former Biggest Loser contestants

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The Biggest Loser Workout: Power Sculpt Review

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(More customer reviews)I was really excited to get this DVD, especially since you can pick your level and make it "last" for 6 weeks while adding new levels and new moves throughout the 6 weeks. Now let me preface this with saying, I am extremely fit. I work out 4-5x a week doing cardio for 30-45 minutes at a time. (And when I do cardio the sweat is literally dripping off me in waves.) I also have been doing sculpting DVDs 2x a week for the past 6 months. This workout kicked my butt! Level one is definitely easy enough for intermediate, yet will still challenge those who are in good shape. I just added Level 2 today, and I actually had to stop the DVD and take a 60 second breather because I thought I would either throw up or pass out! You've gotta work me REALLY hard to make that happen!
My only "criticism" is that I don't think this DVD is appropriate for beginners. However, after reading some reviews it is clear beginners are doing it and thriving on it. My advice to a beginner would be to concentrate on form before you concentrate on reps or how heavy your weights are. In the DVD a lot of the participants have really poor form. (Even though the trainers give them a thumbs up.) Watch the trainer and copy them. Once your form is perfect add weights and/or increase your reps. I'm sure any trainer will tell you they'd rather you do one really good move than 10 of the same move with poor form.
If you want to loose weight and you stick with this DVD I can't imagine you wouldn't change your life and body. And on the same token, if you are already in shape this DVD will add variety and excitement to your workout as well as giving you a really challenging workout.

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TheBiggest Loser®: Power SculptDVD incorporates 3 strength-training regimens with progressive levels of difficulty, respectively hosted by series regulars Jillian Michaels, Kim Lyons and Bob Harper.

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The Biggest Winner - How to Win by Losing: The Complete Body Workout (5-Disc DVD Set: Shape Up - Front, Shape Up - Back, Cardio Kickbox, Maximize - Full Frontal, Maximize - Back in Action) Review

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(More customer reviews)I am happy with my purchase. Each workout is roughly 30 minutes each. They are broken down into a warm up, two different routinues using upper and lower body together with cardio, and a cool down/stretch. The cardio is a lot of jumping (think jumping jacks, etc.) What I really like about the workouts is that they are time efficient. I feel like I got a workout in 30 minutes and she combines upper and lower boday together. Maybe I'm crazy but I am starting to see a difference after 7 workouts. If you liked Jillian on the Biggest Loser, you'll like her on the DVDs. Her personality is the same.
Why I gave the DVDs 4: There are no demos of the exercises, so if you are not familiar with the exercises in her book (Winning By Losing) you might want to watch the DVDs before you do them or to see what the modified version of the exercise is. I believe she mentions that in the intro as well. Also, there a lot of jumping. I read in another person's review that that can be bad for joint problems, so something to consider.
Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase. I would recommend this to a friend and I will probably buy it as a gift for someone in the future.

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Jillian Michaels, TV’s toughest fitness guru, delivers a high-energy workout designed to keep viewers on track with their fitness and weight loss goals! Each of these high intensity DVDs will help get viewers moving, accelerate their fat-burning potential, and tone muscles through a series of creative cardio and weight training sessions. Her self-affirming blueprint for weight loss breathes life into her viewers’ workout regimen through genuine, supportive guidance backed by her impressive credentials. Jillian Michaels holds personal training certificates from the renowned National Endurance and Strength Training Association (NESTA) and the American Fitness Association of America (AFAA) certification program. Additionally, Ms. Michaels has extensive experience in the martial arts practice of Muay Thai and Akarui-Do, in which she holds a black belt. Ms. Michaels was recognized by The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for her accomplishments in both Advanced Exercise Nutrition and Supplementation for Training and Performance.

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Jillian Michaels: Yoga Meltdown Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm starting from the standpoint of years of yoga practice and having taught Pilates professionally for seven years: needless to say, the boot camp style of "Biggest Loser" isn't exactly what I would go looking for in a yoga tape.
My initial Pilates-teacher bias notwithstanding, this is actually pretty interesting. It takes standard yoga poses and adds repetitions to the movement. What's really smart about it is three things:
1.) The repetitions are movements that don't put a lot of pressure on major joints--you're not moving through the joints in such a way that there is a lot of force, so this isn't likely to cause injury. Specifically, what you're not doing, is rolling through shoulder joints repeatedly, with all your weight on your shoulders, as in most Ashtanga yoga--which does tend to cause injuries.
2.) It's interval training. What that means is that your heart rate goes up and down a lot. Your body, in response, will default to a higher level of calorie burning and oxygen use, so this is a pretty good way to increase metabolism and what we think of as "lung capacity."
3.) It's difficult enough that you don't feel like you're wasting your time. Each workout is only 30 minutes, but it's difficult enough that, if your goal that day is fitness, you're definitely getting your money's worth.
Some negatives: it's filmed on a really bright gym set, which is a little difficult to watch; Jillian doesn't actually do all the poses; sometimes it's hard to see the beginner model when you need to.
Who this is for: experienced yoga folks who want a different kind of more athletic short practice; anyone wanting to add gym-based yoga to their workouts.
Who this is not for: if you have bad wrists, this might be undoable. Your knees also should be good enough to get up and down from the floor without difficulty.
However, this is a fairly safe, more difficult yoga dvd.
Yogi Eric Schiffman has been quoted as saying, "The point with yoga, is to do it a lot." If having another instructor in your dvd rotation, one who isn't airy-fairy, and overly emotional, for days when you just can't go there, then this is worth adding to the mix.

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Jillian Michaels, winning trainer on NBC's "The Biggest Loser,” introduces a new yoga workout unlike any other. Combining hard-core yoga power poses with her dynamic training techniques, Jillian will get you real weight-loss results fast. YOGA MELTDOWN includes two complete 30-minute workouts that include a warm-up and cooldown. Begin with the Level 1 workout which focuses on quickly flowing yoga sequences to burn mega calories. Then progress to Level 2 which adds twists and balance poses for an even greater burn.

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The Biggest Loser: The Workout - Last Chance Workout Review

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(More customer reviews)CALORIE BURN: I'll begin with this, considering that's typically why we all buy the dvd, is it not? (Well, you do get a health boost as well...)and I own all the Biggest Loser dvds for a good comparison. I wear a bodybugg (the black arm band you see on the contestants of the Biggest Loser with a monitor attached) to measure my daily caloric expenditure with the most accuracy. Because of this, I am also able to monitor how many calories I burn during a specific workout and how many calories I burn per minute of a workout and how much my calorie burn increases after the workout. I mention this only so you know what I say is based upon scientific measurement, rather than perceived exertion. And this dvd is a high calorie burner! I have quite an extensive library of dvds to compare it to since I use fitness dvds exclusively to get my workout in 6 days a week. This is a new favorite and truly, offered great strength, toning, and calorie burn. You won't help but get results here. While some of her dvds have more cardio to burn more calories DURING the workout, because of the good strength training, and "HIIT" training, you will burn more overall with this one. (see my notes under "effectiveness" as to why) It did, however, burn less than her "Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism" and "No More Trouble Zones" dvd.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED: one set of 1 to 10 lb hand weights, based upon your level, if you have a hard floor you may also want a mat for pushups etc. on the floor
EFFECTIVENESS: The beauty of this dvd is that it's not just cardio but, instead, a full circuit workout. Actually it's a "HIIT" workout which is a model for highest calorie burn. Studies have shown that when you increase your heart rate with cardio then keep it elevated while combining toning and strength exercises and utilize some core floor work in modules, you get double the results. Cardio burns calories during the workout but you recover quickly and your heart rate recovers and lowers. However, when you add strength training with cardio, you continue to burn more calories long after the workout is over and also add muscle which increases your metabolism and allows your body to burn more calories even while at rest--although strength burns less calories during the workout. So, combining the two is always going to give you better results and faster results which is the entire premise of the workouts you see on the Biggest Loser. An expert had the best analogy as to why you don't feel wiped out in a workout like this compared to an all cardio workout, but yet burn more calories: If you go 90 miles an hour in your car for an entire trip, you will use less fuel than if you go 90 then lower your speed, then rev it up for awhile, then lower it again...keeping your heart rate elevated but not at "top speed" and alternating it during a workout will actually burn more calories and, just like a car, use more fuel (calories) in the long run. Old school thinking was that you had to keep your heart rate at max level for best results. The most recent studies showed that the 30 second interval alternation will actually burn more calories. This is what's done in the workout and Jillian mentions the calorie-burn effectiveness of this.
SAFETY: Great instruction not just of how to do the moves, but of how to do them safely if you are a beginner.
LEVEL: Although you'll be well instructed if you are just starting out as to how to get your weight off, this workout will push you if you do the more advanced moves regardless of what level you currently are. You'll sweat. You'll get results. And several of the backup contestants are doing the "beginner level" moves so you can follow them until you get up to speed with the more advanced moves.
CAST: Jillian and past contestants. The beauty of the Biggest Loser workouts is that anyone doing them can identify with someone who is on screen because they don't just utilize their skinniest contestants. When you see someone far larger than you pushing themselves you do think "I can do this." and I like that.
CUEING: Excellent and easy to follow.
MUSIC: Upbeat and coincides with pace of the moves to keep you revved.
SET: Either it is the Biggest Loser set where they weigh in, or it's made to look like it.
CONTAINS: 3 workouts, warm up and cool down 55 minutes total
COMPARISON TO OTHER BIGGEST LOSER DVDS SPECIFICALLY. I own all of the Biggest Loser dvds as well as the ones individually by Bob and Jillian. This is one of the tops for calorie burning, second only to Jillian's "Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism"
NEGATIVES: I hate to have to say it, but I had hoped Jillian had mellowed out some...not in her instruction but, rather, in being condescending. Her last dvd offered I think her best ability to shine through as an instructor. She pushed you, but she didn't have that nervous laughter she'd had in her previous dvds and she wasn't condescending for no reason and silly-fake-tough. Well, what I thought she'd pushed aside is back. For me personally, I prefer Bob's tough but positive approach that seems more genuine. But I know others may feel greater results with this approach so you be the judge. I gotta agree with the other reviewer that calling someone her "bitch" in this dvd just seems unprofessional in several regards and I think if a personal trainer said that to me I would have to wonder what testosterone-filled power trip they were on...also when she said "You messed up! HA HA HA HA HA!" and the person working out seemed not fond of that comment..it's just odd to me. However, Jillian is no doubt still an instructor who uses that same pushing to often make you continue when you want to quit so this has a positive aspect to such "toughness". And she really knows how to explain the moves and cue well and ensure you do them RIGHT for optimal results as well as compile the highest calorie burning workouts. So I have every dvd she's made. It's an annoyance factor for me, but the good of the dvd outweighs this by far. Also, it doesn't appear as though the team practiced this routine all that much. They are out of sync many times...I personally am not thrown by this and almost feel as though I'm in a gym because this is the norm...but this may be important to others so I thought I would mention it. It is a bit of a shame they don't have it all down but as long as I can do it, I'm good. :-) And, finally, if you were in a fraternity and had to do a shot everytime she said "Last Chance Workout" in this dvd you'd be dead to the world within about 7 minutes. Heavey marketing that this is the "last chance workout" to the point it's kinda funny.
CONCLUSION: A great addition to any collection that offers great instruction and results. And you can turn off the voice of the trainer and just have the workout on with the music once you get the moves down if you gotta.
ALTERNATIVE good circuit training workouts:
If you like the high calorie burn coupled with strength training and great instruction in this dvd you may also like (in no certain order):
1.Body by Jake Total Body Workout
2.Jillian Michaels Banish Fat Boost Metabolism and No More Trouble Zones
3.Kathy Smith Build Muscle Shrink Fat
4.Crunch Total Resculpt
5.Star Trainers: Strength
6.Weight Loss Cardio Sculpt with Violet Zaki
All of the above dvds are tops on my list for measuring high calorie burn but also offering strength so you keep burning the fat even at rest, great cueing, motivational, and just all around good results.

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In the pre "weigh-in" workouts on NBC’s hit show, "THE BIGGEST LOSER,” you’ve seen contestants push themselves to the limit to reach their weight-loss goals – and now you can too! In this intense Last Chance Workout, trainer Jillian Michaels pulls out all the stops with three workouts that challenge your body to the maximum. But don’t worry, past contestants will be by your side every step of the way. With a unique blend of cardio and strength designed to boost your fat-burning potential, and the motivation to keep going, now’s your chance to step on the scale and lose more weight faster than ever!

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Jillian Michaels: Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have all of the non-BL Jillian Michaels workout dvds and was thrilled that my UPS guys beat the snow to deliver this new addition today. It does not disappoint!
Here's the skinny: 7 six minute circuits, no weights, no equipment. Just you and some free space to jump around (you don't even need that much space; trust me, I live in a tiny NYC apartment and am completely able to do all the exercises). Each circuit is made up of a set of exercises performed twice before moving on to the next circuit: full body engagement, plyometrics and some serious core work mid-way through. But the focus is really on getting your heart rate up and Jillian delivers (my husband walked in after I was done and said he'd never seen my face so red before -- so beware! It's a tough enough workout that you might not look stunning immediately after; you can save the stunning for the beach this summer!)
Now, I should mention I have done JM's 30 Day Shred and love love love love it. There's no better way to get in a thorough workout in 22 minutes. This is not The Shred. There are many familiar exercises, but it's a much longer workout and the intensity is modulated to make it possible to keep going for the full 45+ minutes of the workout. I was intent on getting through the whole workout, so I can't speak to what the experience would be like for a beginner. But, the dvd is broken into chapters that split at each circuit, so theoretically, you can progressively build up as your stamina increases. I imagine I will have days when I'm pressed for time and just want to hit 3-4 of the circuits, and the chapters are designed to allow me to pick the ones I most like (or hate! depending on how tough they are!)
Also, I find Jillian's style to be increasingly more mature with each new dvd. No joke, she's a tough cookie -- that hasn't changed. But her instruction is more precise and her explanations of why certain exercises are paired together is really helpful. I find that knowing why things are good for me (even when they're so hard) is powerful motivation. Oh, I should mention I have very bad asthma and doing these workouts has helped boost my heart strength and capacity to grab more air with each breath. It's silly, I know, but I finish feeling like Mighty Mouse!
I'll update in the comments section with any thoughts or problems I encounter as I incorporate this workout into my regular schedule. But in the meantime, I'm a very happy customer!

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Fire up your metabolism with TV's top trainer, Jillian Michaels, and lose big with her fierce formula that adds strength and ab moves to dynamic cardio for increased fat loss. This 40-minute circuit workout blasts your heart rate with challenging intervals to turn up the burn and peel off the pounds. Whether you're just getting started or ready for a hardcore workout, this program will ignite your metabolism and incinerate fat to reveal a ripped, lean body!

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Bob Harper: Kettlebell Cardio Shred Review

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(More customer reviews)In my eyes, Bob Harper has always been the perfect trainer. I haven't missed one DVD he has and I've never been let down. Not only does he have an ease on camera that makes you feel as though he is personally encouraging you, he explains each move so that you do it best and do it right...and he motivates. Because the DVDs he's now putting out without the Biggest Loser title are nothing short of fantastic (really professionally put together with the camera shots, close up to show important form, timers, set, backup trainers in perfect form and in sync etc) I was beyond thrilled to see a kettlebell workout by him.
I've been doing kettlebells for some time now and if you've never tried one, I have to say you are missing out. Unlike many things that enter the market and become a workout fad, this has, instead, blown up in popularity even with professional body builders and it's easy to see why. You use muscles you wouldn't ordinarily use and you have FUN working out with all the swings and moves that feel more like a game than repetitive handweights moving up and down and its been proven that the kettlebell workouts burn more calories in less time and I concur.) Additionally, I use my kettlebell in any other workout where they ask me to hold two weights in one hand. It's simply more comfortable.
That said, as far as a fantastic workout...this will push you and you will quickly see results. While I normally use a 12 lb kettlebell even though I use 2 7-lb. dumbbells when working out, this one really works best for me if I use a lighter kettlebell due to the repetitive reps rather than varying movements.
So here's the thing...I have mixed feelings on this one. Bob is his regular awesome, inspiring, motivating self. However, while all of his other DVDs inspire me to keep going, I didn't feel this one had quite the same energy. In fact, I can't even believe I'm saying it, but sometimes it was boring and I wanted to quit. I think part of the reason is that I felt more as though I was watching Bob in a room training a pretty low-energy female rather than being a part of the action. He still explained all moves flawlessly but he's in a room with only one other person that he is basically training and showing the moves to, and she oddly drains the energy he puts out...pretty much frowning and looking serious the entire time with nary an ounce of energy or smile. It was part way through that I finally realized why all the back-up people in other DVDs smile when they workout, which I'd always thought silly before. It actually REALLY does exude energy through the screen. Because when it's not there, I felt it. She looked bored and unhappy. And there was no one else to look at. So I kind of felt the same...
...especially because the moves are pretty repetitive when ordinarily he takes you through all different moves that work the same parts just to shake it up...so you get the gain without the boredom. But the first time I did it it felt like, in the first 15 minutes, I was mostly just doing the same things as compared to other kettlebell DVDs. I may not have minded had I not already felt it was not so exciting to watch as compared to his other DVDs and other kettlebell DVDs.
Never in my life would I have thought I'd prefer Jillian's training to his, as much as she offers amazing workouts, she has nervous and silly-tough energy...but her new kettlebell DVD, gulp, I actually liked better. I can't believe I think so.
I don't think what I didn't like is his fault so much as the serious atmosphere in watching him train someone with no enthusiasm.
That said, do I still feel very positive about the workout? I do. This will change your body. You will feel it during the workout and the next day and you will do the moves perfectly with perfect cueing and form. You will learn to use the kettlebell flawlessly and change your body. That is, afterall, what we all wish to achieve with such a purchase in the long run so motivate yourself with some music that inspires you if you, too, feel a lower dose of energy, stick with it, follow Bob's good training...and this is still well worth the purchase.
Would I rename this Kettlebell Strength Shred? For sure. It's far more strength training than cardio. However, it burned great calories for a strength DVD, just like all kettlebell DVDs seem to (I measure my calories burned with a bodybugg so I can compare it not only to other fitness DVDs but also see how much my metabolism increased hours after a strength DVD. Cardio burns more during the workout but while strength training burns less during, it continues to burn hours afterwards and build muscle to also burn more calories even at rest.)
Would I change a few things if I could? Yes. Will I still stick with it and be happy I bought the DVD? Absolutely...I just wanted to give the full picture of my own experience.

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It's time to transform! Get ready for a non-stop, maximum fat burning routine to shred every muscle in your body. Featuring 54 minutes of accelerated cardio, and the power of kettlebell training, this latest edition of the Inside Out Method DVD Series will transform your body for ultimate results. Kettlebell Cardio Shred introduces total body resistance control to Bob's high-intensity circuits, for a commanding, calorie-destroying workout. Define your body, boost and challenge all limitations.

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The Biggest Loser Workout: Cardio Max Review

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(More customer reviews)Let me preface this by saying I have lost and maintained a nearly 40lb weight loss through eating and working out. I've completed a half marathon, run 20 miles weekly and have done numerous workout DVD's...including the original Biggest Loser DVD and even Jillian's separate workout DVD's. I don't say this to toot my own horn, but to give you a gauge as to how someone who's in good shape views this DVD.
At least I thought I was in good shape until I popped this DVD in. This is a crazy hard workout that will workout every fiber in your body.
Bob starts with Level 1 and gives you 20 minutes of heart pounding, lunge screaming and weight lifting cardio...at Level 1??
Jillian is next and she doesn't fail at delivering a 10 minute, high intensity level 2 cardio workout. Like I stated earlier, I've got her whole collection of workout DVD's and this 10 minutes with her, is just as bad (good) as a few of the 20 minute DVD's I've got with her.
Bringing up the rear is Kim...and this one is a let down. For a level 3 cardio workout, she barely breaks even with Bob's Level 1. Now, if you do all 3 in a row like I do, then it does get a little tiring at the end with her, but if you just pop in her section for 10 minutes, I don't think you'd be pushing yourself very hard. In my own opinion, the workout difficulty would have gone Kim, Jillian and then Bob...do those jumping lunges and tell me that's not Level 3 cardio!
All in all, this is a great workout DVD to add to your collection. The ability to customize your workouts is great and the some of the moves are new and I've never done them before.
Start 2008 off right and lay down the cash for this. You won't be disappointed in the workout it gives you.

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Jillian Michaels: Shred-It With Weights Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been a kettlebell fan ever since I heard Jillian raving about them on her radio show about a year ago (to listen to her radio show archives, go to [...] and type Jillian Michaels into the "Displaying" box in the top right corner). She mentioned that "Crazy Trainer Steve" was teaching her kettlebells and that she had to retrain her brain to just drop the kettlebell instead of doing a negative repetition the way she had always done with traditional weights. Her point was that even the top trainers in the world are always learning something new from THEIR trainers. Nice humble attitude and great information.
Intrigued, I immediately went to my local Tarjay and bought a 15 pound GoFit kettlebell for 40 Georges. GoFit 15-Pound Red Kettlebell with Vinyl Coating, Iron Core Training DVD and Exercise Booklet The kettlebell came with 2 DVD's: Iron Core Kettlebell (tutorial DVD) and Iron Core Kettlebell Express Volume 3 DVD, both by Sarah Lurie. The tutorial DVD is great, but her voice is annoying (it sounds like she's talking to a 2 year old), and the workout DVD has only a few moves that are done over and over again.
So I bought every other kettlebell DVD I could afford, and they were not cheap! Pavel's From Russia With Tough Love is an excellent tutorial and it's still my go-to reference for remembering how to do each move. But it doesn't have a follow along workout, which I really need. The Kettlebell Goddess Workout by Andrea DuCane is boring and wooden. I would rather watch grass grow. Kettlebell Dynamics by Amy Bento has 3 ADVANCED killer workouts with no tutorials that I would recommend after you are past the intermediate kettlebell stage and longing for more. I also downloaded the fabulous free MP3 kettlebell workout from [...].
And now Jillian came out with her own kettlebell DVD that I've been waiting and longing for, and it's awesome. I LOVE IT! Her terminology for some of the moves confused me the first time through, but I figured it out. What she calls "a rack" is really called "a clean" in the kettlebell world. And instead of using the very simple kettlebell term "alternating swings", she calls them "a squat swing with a pass".
You must buy a kettlebell for this workout . . . 10 pounds if you are an absolute beginner girl who hasn't exercised in years, 15 pounds if you are a girl who can FEEL a little muscle when you flex (even if the muscle is under a cushion of fat, your muscles are still ready for 15 pounds and the kettlebell moves will shred the fat right off ya). If you're a guy, go for 15 pounds if you're totally out of shape, and 20 pounds if you can feel a little muscle. Why can you use a much heavier kettlebell than you thought possible? Your ENTIRE BODY is lifting the weight, not just your arm. More about that coming up . . . .
Here's why dumbbells are dumb and kettlebells rock: With a DUMBBELL, the weight is centered. It works one muscle group at a time. Since it doesn't have a handle, using a dumbbell to do moves that are designed for the kettlebell can feel very awkward, not to mention the risk of dropping the thing on your toes. In contrast, the weight of the KETTLEBELL is off center, so you have to use every muscle in your body to balance it, especially your core (abs and hips/butt). Every kettlebell exercise is a ballistic (explosive) whole body exercise. It's cardio and weights at the same time. Remember those days when you had to walk on the treadmill for an hour, then work the weight machines for 30 minutes to get in your cardio and weight training? No more. Working with kettlebells 20 minutes a day, your cardio and weight training is done!
I wouldn't bother with Jillian's adjustable kettlebell; it's too expensive. And did you hear the clanging noise of the plates when it was fully loaded in the DVD tutorial? That sound would drive me crazy. The traditional kettlebell is cheaper, completely quiet, and available in the sporting goods section of your local store.
One other thing . . . as I do my kettlebell workouts, I really work up a sweat, and my hands get sweaty, too. I was worried about the kettlebell flying out of my hands to directions unknown, so I went back to my local Bullseye and bought some GoFit Weightlifting Gloves, and they give me some serious grip on the kettlebell. GoFit Women's Pink Pearl-Tac Weightlifting Gloves w/ CD Now I can do all the swings and snatches I want with complete control.
Kettlebells make you strong and empowered, give you a great butt and shredded body. For me, it's also a stress reducing mind-body exercise, since I can't possibly complete these moves with correct form while worrying about paying the bills. Have fun with Jillian's kettlebell workout!
UPDATED REVIEW...
I'm hooked on kettlebells for life. Just by spending quality time with my kettlebell . . . 20 minutes per session, 3-4 days a week . . . I have lost 15 pounds of fat and gained 5 pounds of muscle in 3 months. I also very proud to say that in the same 3 month time period, my 15 pound kettlebell became too easy to use, so I moved up to a 20 pounder. Kettlebells have transformed my body, and I am in the best shape of my life! However, I stopped using Jillian's DVD a couple months ago, because I prefer other kettlebell routines. Here are my current favorites:
1. The DVD that came ABSOLUTELY FREE with my new 20 lb GoFit kettlebell (available at Target, Amazon, and possibly Wal-Mart). The name of the DVD is Kettlebell Konnection and the instructor is Jessica Huthmaker. Her tutorial is excellent, and her form is perfect. Awesome 25 minute workout.
2. The Ultimate Body Sculpt and Conditioning with Kettlebells by instructor Lauren Brooks. The Ultimate Body Sculpt and Conditioning with Kettlebells DVD with Lauren Brooks It has a 12 minute workout, which seems too easy to me. But it also has a 40 minute workout, which I have converted to a 20 minute workout, since I do each circuit once instead of twice.
3. Free MP3 kettlebell workout at liftkettlebells dot com. Look for this in my comments section of my review if the link gets removed. I think the 20 minute workout is perfect. Great workout and awesome cuing for each move.

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Get ready for a fresh, dynamic way to work out! Jillian Michaels adds extra weight to her hard-core circuit training techniques for a total-body workout designed to burn maximum fat. Using a kettlebell or a single hand weight, Shred-It With Weights helps you build lean muscle and burn mega calories with two 30-minute boot camp workouts. Begin with Level 1 and progress to Level 2 for maximum body- shredding results. Stick with Jillian’s program for 30 days and you could see a lean, shredded body.

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Bob Harper: Cardio Conditioning Review

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(More customer reviews)NOTE: So far, I've only done the full-hour, more intense workout, not the shorter 25 minute one. I consider myself somewhere between an intermediate and advanced fitness level. Six days out of the week, I run regularly, do sprint intervals/HIIT routines and strength train with high-rep workouts (e.g., Jari Love, BodyPump).
This disc has two options: The full, one-hour workout or a condensed 25 minute workout, which is recommended for beginners. I put on my big-girl pants and decided to go for the full hour. I must admit, after watching some of the trailers, I was a little nervous. And looking back, I had every right to be, because this. Was. HARD.
It started out innocently enough, with some dynamic stretching and some basic punching moves. Then, you're instructed to pick up a dumbbell (I grabbed one that's slightly more than 8 lbs) and start moving into deadlifts with rows. Wait, time out! Strength training? I thought this was a cardio workout? Well, be patient. The deadlift rows transition into squats with arm swings, which I later learned is a common move that you come back to as an active recovery between the crazier moves. So what are some of those crazy moves, exactly?
* Squat Jumps (still holding the dumbbell, plus some isometric holds)
* Walk-outs (walking down into a push-up and back)
* Mountain Climbers (instead of taking a break in between sets, he makes you do push-ups AND hold in plank position!)
* Jumping Jacks (both with and without dumbbells)
* Jump Rope (with dumbbells)
* More squats (both at regular and pulsing paces)
* Fast Feet (these eventually lead into jump twists a.k.a. 180-jumps)
* More Walk-outs with an added jump
* Scorpion Push-Ups (this was definitely a "WTF?" moment for me... From a push-up position, you lift one leg up high, shift it toward the opposite side and then do a push-up. Um. Yeah.)
* Squats with Knee Raises
* Speed Skaters
* Tuck Jumps
* Various standing ab movesThat's not even a complete list, people. You just keep going. And going. And going some more. As I mentioned before, you regularly come back to the strength moves introduced in the beginning and those are pretty much the closest things you'll get to a break. Technically, there is a "water break," but it doesn't come until the last third of the workout and lasts for only a few seconds. Then, you're back to the grind. You get to see a sadistic side of Bob in this workout, clearly.
As far as the instruction goes, I think Bob could've done a slightly better job in describing form. Although, this workout pretty much dives in at an intermediate-to-advanced level, so if you're still learning proper form on things like squats, deadlifts and push-ups, you may want to train in those areas a little bit more beforehand. Also, it would've been nice to see Bob doing more of the workout himself, instead of just instructing/watching his 3 assistants (two girls, one guy).
I also found myself kind of irritated with how the assistants were regularly out of sync, even with Bob's cues, but then Bob straight up tells you not to focus on their pace and to just pay attention to your own performance. I agree, but it would still be nice to look up and see some consistency.
One thing I loved was seeing the assistants drip with sweat, run out of breath and sometimes, flat out stop because they're just plain tired. It was refereshing to see the people on the screen struggling to get through an interval just as much as me! I get discouraged sometimes when I'm doing a DVD, sweating my ass off and trying to catch my breath, only to see some chick smiling back at me with her make-up still in place. The people in this DVD are definitely working hard and not always smiling and I personally appreciated that.
Overall, I was seriously impressed by this workout. It definitely lived up to my expectations, as far as delivering a high-intensity challenge. In all honesty, I could not keep up for all 60 minutes and really struggled to put forth 100% effort. But I view that as a positive because now I know I not only got my money's worth, but I also have a new level of fitness to work toward. Not that it needs to be said, but I was absolutely drenched after it was over, as if I had just ran 5 or 6 miles. Ridiculous (in a good way).
And that was just one DVD. I still have 3 others to try, haha. Bob hasn't scared me off quite yet, but he has made me a bit anxious. I read some of the other reviews on here for this workout and couldn't believe some people had the nerve to say this DVD was "long and boring." Um, seriously? First of all, it says right on the DVD that the first workout is an hour, so there shouldn't be any surprises there. Secondly, I don't know what workout they were doing, but I didn't have time to get bored! Bob keeps you going non-stop, so my heart rate stayed elevated. I dunno about you, but I don't sweat buckets and drop the F-bomb multiple times when I'm bored.
As you can tell, I'm officially a fan and have no qualms telling you to go out and buy this already!

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Bob Harper: Cardio ConditioningIf you've got heart, you can get results. Your heart is the most vital muscle in your body; the engine that keeps you alive. In this ultimate cardio workout, Bob takes you through a series of explosive, non-stop drills in all three planes of motion that get your heart rate pumping to maximum fat-burning capacity. Optimize your powerhouse and defy limitations, with a calorie-igniting, weight-loss-fueling workout. Increase energy and enhance endurance, so you... blaze away fat and transform your body!

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Jillian Michaels: 6 Week Six-Pack Review

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(More customer reviews)I sat down & watched this workout to get familiar with it before I actually attempted it. I got tired just WATCHING! Jillian is amazing, as always! This workout is her best, and hardest, to date.
I did it for the first time yesterday...and I am SORE today! I'm in better shape than the average woman my age (45). This winter, I'm doing 2-a-day training sessions: working out with Jillian's various DVDs @ 4am before work, then running either at lunchtime on the treadmill in the gym at work or after I get home in the evening around my neighborhood. I also do a long run on the weekend. I've run 20+ races in the past 3 years, including 7 half marathons and 1 full marathon. I'm not an elite runner, by any means; I'm more of a middle-of-the-pack runner, but my point is that I work out all the time, I'm in really good shape, but this workout KICKED MY BUTT! I had to do the 'beginner version' of a lot of the exercises, though the girl doing the beginner modifications wasn't using a handweight. I did.
Oh, and don't be fooled just because it's called '6 week 6-pack.' You won't be laying on the floor doing crunches the whole time. As always, Jillian keeps it aerobic, working multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Your biceps, triceps, shoulders, chest, and back are going to feel the burn too because a lot of the exercises are done in plank, or some variation of plank.
I HIGHLY recommend this workout! Absolutely LOVE it! Yes, I'm sore from doing it yesterday...and yes, I'm doing it again tomorrow!
If you're a fan of Jillian's style, you will NOT be disappointed!

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Get ripped, flat abs in 6 weeks with America’s toughest trainer, Jillian Michaels. Forget boring sit-ups – Jillian’s ab-shredding system will chisel the midsection with her winning combination of core-focused cardio circuits and ab-toning exercises. 6 Week Six-Pack includes two dynamic 30-minute workouts plus warm-ups and cooldowns. Start with Level 1 for three weeks, then advance to Level 2 for increased intensity and fat burn. Stick with it and see dramatic results!

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Jillian Michaels - 30 Day Shred Review

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(More customer reviews)I had never purchased a Jillian Michaels DVD before b/c of the hit or miss reviews. So when I heard raves about this one, I decided to give it a shot and I am so glad I did. This is an absolute butt-kicker workout. I am an intermediate/advanced exerciser (I work out 5-6 days a week) so I figured I could see what Level 1 was all about and move onto Level 2 right away. Listen to me folks--these workouts are HARD. Level 2 was VERY difficult--a good difficult though, very challenging. When Jillian tells you to start at level 1, listen to her she knows what she's doing. I've been at this for about 5 days, and I already feel a difference in my body.
Jillian is tough--absolutely NO rest in this workout (not even for a sip of water) but that's what makes it go by so quickly, and it makes your body change, according to Jillian. You're done before you know it--but by the end you've gotten a kick butt workout and feel like you've really done something. She bases her workout on the 3-2-1 method: 3 mins strength, 2 mins cardio, 1 min abs. Her strength circuits remind me of Jari Love--compound exercises that work the upper and lower body simultaneously. The cardio is good as well: a lot of jumping, so watch those knees (she has a modifier for beginner and lower impact) And the abs is straight up ab work--a variety of crunches and twists on the floor.
This is a great workout and I find Jillian to be tough but she's pretty likeable. Be warned though: she's no-nonsense. I think it's funny when during the stretch she admits she's not flexible and struggles to reach her legs on the floor. I thought "Ha, Ha, finally something I'm better at than Jillian!" lol
If you really want to get a good workout and to jumpstart your weight loss get this DVD you will not be disappointed. It's great for those who are short on time too and want to try something new; every workout is just under 30 mins!

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JILLIAN MICHAELS:30 DAY SHRED - DVD Movie

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Bob Harper: Pure Burn Super Strength Review

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(More customer reviews)How in the world did I miss this guy? Well, I think it's because I stayed away from the dvds with Biggest Loser marketing. My loss. Bob kicks a**!! I love Pure Burn Super Strength! Definately not for the faint of heart. This has to be one of the best strength workout dvds ever - IMO. There are two workouts:
Workout 1 - One hour full-out (a little over an hour including warm up & cool down)
Workout 2 - 20 min. beginner workout
You need weights. I used 3lbs & 5lbs, however, will use 8 lbs next workout. Obviously, men will use heavier weights to start out with. Bob says up to 12 lbs...but for guys, I would think higher. If you have hard floors, you'll also need a mat.
BREAKDOWN - WORKOUT 1
Warmup
Squats with weights
Pushups
Bicep curl to shoulder press
Squats w/ weights - increase speed, then hold...BURNS!
Down & Outs - add push up
Pushups then go halfway down - hold
Bicep curl w/ shoulder press
Down & Outs - pushups
Fast Shoulder presses then hold....
Back Rows - then pulses
Deadlifts
Right leg in front - bent over rows
Arm Raise Combo - Front, Side, and Posterier pinky up side
Hold arms out to side - 3x
Left leg in front - bent over rows
Arm Raise Combo
WATER BREAK!! MUCH NEEDED =)
Holding one weight only - lunge forward
Pass weight under leg, back & forth
Bent over (squat) single arm fly - working deltoid
Repeat on opposite leg, and opposite single arm fly
Alternating lunges, then lunge jumps!
HALFWAY THRU
Bicep Curls - Bob points out not to worry about bringing weight all the way up. Helpful tip, felt a difference.
Squat position w/ elbows right above knees - little bicep curls
Tricep Extensions
DOWN TO FLOOR
Skull Crushers
Chest press (keep elbows close to focus on triceps)
Crunches - regular crunches, crunches with arms reaching out to sides of legs - then pulse, arms back behind head & raise one leg (knees at same heigth), switch legs while continuing to crunch, then both legs up
Back to standing
Single leg (balance) while doing hammer curls, switch legs continue with curls
Supination Extensions - forward extensions & side extensions, then squat down & do side supination extensions. OUCH.
Continue in squat position, put arms down...hold, then weighted jump squats, finish the burn with more weighted chair squat!
Tricep Extensions
Floor - Skull Crushers, Chest Press, Crunches w/ legs extended
Roll over to Plank position for Weighted Plank Rows
Weighted T-Stands - pushup w/ T-stand, T-stand each side, then pushups w/ T-stand again - Seriously Hurting
Hold Plank Position
Stand up begin Matrix Lunges
Matrix Lunges (holding one weight) - lunge forward, lunge side, lunge back (pay attention to the back lunge, form is unique)
Standing Weighted Pullovers
Matrix Lunges on other leg
Iso Arms - hold arm straight out, then arm out to side palm down, front, side...repeat iso arm other side
WATER BREAK
On floor in plank position on forearms. Raise/lower hips, then twist hips side to side for twisting plank
Press up to straight plank, back down on elbows, up, down, up, down, up..really it is torture
Side Knee Plank - bring knee to elbow, other side, then go really fast!
COOL DOWN WORKOUT 2 - 20 min
Warmup
Weighted Sumo Squat
Bicep Curls, then pulses, and lastly hold (arms 90 degrees)
Tricep Extensions
Tricep Kickbacks
Alternating Lunges - then hold leg in lunge position, alternate & hold, again...good burn
Front Raises - palms face eachother, lift to eye level
Lateral Raises - arms out to side, palms down
Posterier Lateral Raises - pinky up first side raise
Then do all together - Front, Lateral, Posterier
Dead lift - knees slightly bent
Slowed down dead lifts
Back rows - slightly bent over
WATERBREAK - stretch
Pushups - on knees.. 2 sets
Hold in Plank position
turn on back for crunches
Hold crunch & lift leg up..switch legs
Switch legs - crunches, other leg - crunches
Hold crunch
COOLDOWN
Fransisco, Helen, and Stephanie are the lucky exercise talent. Stephanie modifies for those who need to lighten up a bit because it gets TOUGH! Bob does an excellent job explaining form, cueing, and pushing you to the next level. I highly recommend this DVD!! It would be tough for beginners. I think intermediate to advanced fitness levels will appreciate this workout. You absolutely must get this workout!!
Please leave a comment if you have any questions =)

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Bob Harper: Pure Burn Super StrengthNo muscle goes untrained. A Get Cut Revolution for the upper body, lower body and core. 35 power surging moves, set to a dynamic pace, delivering an intensified burn that works to aggressively increase metabolism, attack fat, and exhaust calories so you lose weight and gain pure muscle. Get the results you have been looking for.

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