Editorial Review

This 40-minute program from veteran instructor Kathy Smith shows you how to firm and shape your arms, back, chest, and shoulders. The technique is low-rep overload, which means that you're using resistance difficult enough to challenge your muscles with fewer repetitions. This technique not only saves time, it makes your muscles stronger and shapelier than high reps and light weights or no weights. The program is carefully presented, with a variety of strength-training exercises for all the upper-body muscles. Some of the exercises here, such as pushups, use body weight for resistance. For the rest, you'll need to use weights for best results. (If you're used to working out with weights, you'll probably want to use ones that are heavier than Smith recommends.) Smith explains each exercise clearly and offers alignment tips so that you know you're doing the exercise correctly. Read more

Features

• Color
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Reviews (16)

Amazing results!
I had had two kids, hadn't worked out for years, was flabby and needed to lose a few pounds of fat.I started doing this video in conjunction with a lower body work out (Karen Voight's Lean Legs and Buns; I highly recommend it) and a cardio work out (which I don't recommend and won't name).In just a few months, I am lean with nicely sculpted muscles--not bulky ones, but what I see as feminine ones.Never before in my life have I had upper arms I wanted to show off.I avoided sleevelss tops and dresses like the plague.No longer!I love the way I look.
A mediocre workout tape
While Kathy Smith is great at pointing out each muscle and its function, and explaining proper form, but spends too much time talking and not enough time exercising.
Too much talking an too little exercising!
I personally didn't find this tape too challenging. There are very few exercises and I feel like Kathy spends most of the time talking and explaining, rather than keeping a fast pace and making the best out of the exercises. For a tape that focuses ONLY in the upper body, she could have done so much more in the same amount of time! The moves are good but too few of them. Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Movie   

Editorial Review

Relaxation is key in Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (16)

A Secret All-time Favorite
Denise's Stretch and Flex video is one of my long-time personal favorites -- and I'm a Yoga instructor with twelve years of teaching experience.This is definitely my "stretch of choice", and I'm on my third copy of this video after two others wore out from years of constant use.The stretches are challenging enough to work, and more importantly, Denise stretches the entire body in sequence, going from head to toe so that no muscle group is ignored or glossed over.Years ago, I ran into a fellow Yoga instructor at Starbucks, and both of us admitted to doing this video on a regular basis.We agreed it was a "guilty pleasure".I've ordered this video for my daughter and for friends, and it's traveled on vacation with me all over the U.S.Many of these stretches ARE Yoga-based, but Denise's no-nonsense approach to them makes them accessible and do-able.

Love It!!
I love using this tape after I workout, or if I just want to relax at the end of the day. I've been using it for a few weeks now and I've noticed a change in my flexibility, especially while working out. At first I couldn't do her floor stretches because it hurt too much, but now I can do them and it feels great!! I will continue to use this tape and I highly recommend it!!!

GREAT RELAXATION TAPE
I am a big fan of Denise Austin and use many of her tapes, I found I was looking for just a stretching tape and this one is great, it has soft relaxing music playing in the background, and it flows nicely from one stretch to the next.At the end of the tape my whole body feels relaxed and I get a great nights sleep. If you are looking for a great tape to unwind too at the end of the day, I highly recommend this one. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Fitness/Self-Help    2. Movie   

Editorial Review

This 50-minute low-impact aerobic workout is vintage Jane Fonda--literally! It consists of excerpts from routines from four earlier Jane Fonda videos: Read more

Features

• Closed-captioned
• Color
• HiFi Sound
• NTSC

Reviews (11)

Tried and True Workout now on DVD!
Yes, it is a little scary looking at those leopard-print leotards and all that big, big hair, but don't let that put you off. This is a fun, easy-to-follow workout which combines some of the best routines from a bunch of Jane's videos. If you are a relatively experienced exerciser (as I am), you will not be wiped out by the end of this: you will be exercising at a comfortable pace and burning that fat away. If you are more of a beginner, there are always modifications to help you keep up.
Great for people that don't like to exercise
This is a really fun workout video. It has a lot of variety and takes several times to get the steps down, but it's not so complicated that you feel like you'll never catch on. I'm 16, and I think it's cool to step back in time for 50 minutes and see the "old school" outfits and watch Jane Fonda's perky crew. If you don't take yourself too seriously, you'll have fun with this one. I wouldn't recommend it for the advanced exerciser. It's not so easy that I feel like I didn't do anything (I always need a shower afterwards), but it's not super challenging, either. It would be good for people that are easily injured or are just starting out. There are modifications for people that can't do high impact.

Excellent Low-Impact Workout
I've owned this for many years.Just took it out, tried it again and realized Jane Fonda's creation, as well as her sound advice as an aerobics professional,stands the test of time.This is a compilation of a number of her workouts, seamlessly put together for a fat-burning 40-50 minutes of aerobics and stretching. Her nutritional info at the end is solid although not currently "in vogue".This video was made at a time when fitness participants were encouraged to look like they were enjoying the workout- what a breath of fresh air! Personally, I don't get off on working out with the 'testosterone ladies'.. you know the ones, who believe the more miserable they appear, the better the workout must be!
Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

When model Cindy Crawford wanted to trim down and firm up after thebirth of her baby, she chose trainer Kathy Kaehler, who had gotten herself back in shape after gaining 80 pounds with her twins. This program includes two short, easy workouts and one long one. Workout A (12 minutes) is a light-intensity routine, mostly stretching with some strength moves such as lunges and abdominal curls, nothing strenuous, with bland background music.Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (80)

Results are visible
I am a fan of Cindy Crawford's workouts.I was recovering from a lower back injury and looking for something that would help ease me into a good workout routine.After reading the review that this video was actually designed for women who had recently given birth, I figured this DVD would be a good place to start to gently help me exercise, until I could increase my strength for more of a workout.This video is wonderful.The first workout appeared to be "too easy," but I would recommend doing it for at least two weeks, then trying the second workout.The second workout introduces a little bit of aerobic exercise, which Cindy normally doesn't do, and it's fun.Do this one for a about 4 weeks before going on to the third video to build your stamina/strength.The third is definitely the most challenging and the longest workout, but it's fun, and you will notice results quickly, which makes you want to continue working out with this DVD.Cindy and Kathy make a good team here.It's easy to see what each of them contributed to this workout.I strongly recommend it for anyone recovering from an injury, or anyone who is looking for a beginner's workout.This video goes from beginner level (workout #1) to intermediate/advanced, it's an enjoyable workout, and the results received from this workout are all the motivation you'll need to stay in shape.

Good workout!
I worked out regularly prior to my pregnancy.Once I got pregnant I stopped working out.This workout allowed me to ease back into the workout.I did the 1st two programs and felt the workout the next day.
Perfect!
I love this workout more than any of my other postnatal dvds. I don't always have time to do a 45 minute workout so my favorite part about this workout is that it is divided up into 10 minute segments with increasing difficulty. I can usually manage to steal 10 minutes for a workout even on my most busy days! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness/Self-Help    3. Movie   

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (6)

LOVE this video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've been doing this video steadily for several years. Its my favorite one.I'd love to see it in DVD format!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great video!
This is the first exercise video that I have been able to follow and keep doing (I am a bit uncoordinated).Tamilee provides excellent instruction and good motivation without being too corny. Tamilee Webb is awesome as the video personal trainer
This video works wonders for beginners. It adds a little bit of challenge for the people who want it too. I also liked the wonderful fitness advice Tamilee Webb gives the workout audience. This is a workout tape for womenand men as well. :-) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness/Self-Help    3. Movie   

Editorial Review

Rev up the speed that you need to burn calories by alternating these twobeginning-level cardiovascular workouts. Denise Austin (in a two-piece swimsuitand carrying no visible body fat) gives you two different 20-minute workouts inthis 1996 video. First is a low-impact routine with simple moves: marchesforward, knee lifts, side lunges, cha chas, and shuffles, for example, with evensimpler arm work. There are no patterns--just one move repeated a bunch oftimes, then another move, so this video is best for exercisers who don't want tothink about choreography. The setting is an outdoor park overlooking theocean.Read more

Features

• Color
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Reviews (30)

My favorite aerobics tape ever!
The first segment is so fun and you really work up a sweat. The moves seem simple but the way they're put together really makes you feel like you're getting a great workout. The second segment is definitely a challenge, the first couple times it was hard for me to get through them but each time it gets easier. I actually look forward to exercising every day. Now that's an amazing workout!

ONLY for the super-coordinated
Denise Austin is very nice and fun to watch, and it is in a great beach setting, but her steps are soooo COMPLICATED, you need to be a dancer to do them. I have been doing FIRM workouts for years, and I don't get discombobulated very easy, but I felt like I was tripping over my own feet ("Okay, grapevine, boxstep, mambo, turn and jump!"). I almost landed on my head, and the funny thing is, she even trips over HER feet when she is doing it (Watch carefully...you'll see her stumble). How does she expect us to do it???
"Cardio Made Fun"
I just recently started a small fitness video collection to help me keep fit and tone up.I already own Denise Austin's "Hit the Spot: Thighs", and am waiting to receive "Hit the Spot: Arms and Bust; Abs; Buns", which I recently ordered.Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

This high-intensity workout is one of Austin's most energetic: two 20- minute cardio routines to burn fat and increase stamina. The first is a livelykickboxing workout. Exercisers with kickboxing training won't be overwhelmed byAustin's form and technique, but she still presents a good aerobic workout. Thelighthearted music doesn't fit the workout, however, and she doesn't cue itwell. The best instructors tell you what you're going to do before you do it,but Austin often cues on the move rather than before the move, so you're lateincorporating changes. Once you get used to the choreography, you probably won'tnotice this. The second workout uses interval training to alternate cardiosegments with short weight segments using light dumbbells. The cardio intervalsin this workout are mostly athletic moves--jump rope, lunges, and plenty ofkickboxing--with a few easy dance moves thrown in. If you're a Denise Austin fanand you're ready to pump up the intensity of your workout, you'll enjoy thisvideo. Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (56)

hard to follow
While it is a nice workout, some of the moves are embarassing if someone else is in the house.Also It is hard to follow, sometimes Denise does a couple reps of something before telling you that you have moved on to the next thing, so you have to watch carefully.I love Denise Austin, but this is not one of her best tapes.

Fun but Challenging
This is a fun workout, but I wouldn't recommend it as an introduction if you are just beginning to work out and trying to loose weight, as it could easily become frustrating. I workout regularly, and it still took me a while before I could do this workout all the way through. Once you build up some muscle strength, though, it really is quite fun. And I have no doubt that if you did this workout every day, you would lose 10 lbs. I don't use it for that though; it's also a fun video to alternate into your normal workout routine.

Kickboxing Section Great! Interval Training So-so
I have never done any kickboxing before so it took about five viewings before I got Denise's routine down.It would probably have been easier if Denise would learn to cue her viewers better.Her count is not much better. Denise needs to view Crunch Fat Burning Pilates and take some lessons from Ellen Barrett about proper cuing and keeping count.Once I got use to the bad cuing the kick boxing section was really awesome.It had my heart rate up and I was sweating like crazy when it was over.The interval training was not very interesting or fun.I thought it would keep up the same heart pumping workout from the kicking boxing section of the tape, but it didn't.The second section was more of a dance workout with weights.I have only done the second section once, but maybe if I do it a few more times I will start enjoy it, but I doubt it; besides it requires more workout space than I have available, unlike the kickboxing section which enabled me to work within the limited space of my room. If your library has this workout tape, burrow it and see if you like it.If I had done that I would not have bought it, despite the great kickboxing workout. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (11)

I'm a believer!
I am a recent Leslie Sansone convert.I have spent years doing intense cardio that I really didn't enjoy but I felt that if I wasn't panting and sweating I was wasting my time.Thus, I could never get myself to do more than a 30 minute cardio workout.Well, I'm so glad I gave Leslie a try.I had seen clips of her workouts and thought they must be only for the incredibly overweight or out of shape.I stand corrected!
walk the pounds away
All of Leslie's walk away the pounds are the best work out tapes I ever used. You really can feel every step! LOVE IT

L Wooton
I think that this is a great workout, and it doesn't take that long. I usually get up at 5:45 am and by 6:35, I'm done. The 51 minutes includes a gentle warm up, but the brisk walk is about 45 minutes. I recommend this one! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

This well-designed program combines fast-paced yoga moves for fat-burning, hatha yoga poses for strength and flexibility, and stability ball exercises for core conditioning in three segments that can be done in one 60-minute session, or separately. Segment 1 builds patterns based on strong yoga poses such as the Warrior and Balancing Stick, adding lifts and lunges at a fast pace so that you're breathing faster and working the muscles simultaneously. Segment 2 is strength training by holding poses. Segment 3 focuses on core strength with a stability ball. Some familiarity with yoga is helpful--Austin doesn't give much instruction about breathing or the fine points of the poses--but not required. Although Austin talks nonstop, as always, her voice is quieter than usual and more fitting for this workout. (The repetitive, rhythmic music, however, is distracting rather than supportive.) Recommended for intermediate exercisers because no modifications are shown, and many of the poses are challenging. Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (78)

No way!!
This was the WORST yoga dvd I've EVER seen and I've seen a lot! The workout itself wasn't so bad but Denise Austin's form was beyond bad AND her instruction was even worse!! I won't even mention my opinion of her voice. There are SO MANY better yoga workouts out there!

Greatest Workout!
I am 64 years old and have worked out for years.I recently was bored with the treadmill, needed to get off 5 lbs and wanted something different.I love this yoga workout (Fat-Blasting Yoga).I like the fast pace.It took about a month to get the movements down. I ordered Shrink My Femle Fat Zones and Yoga Buns.I like all of them and have increased my energy level and the stretching has lowered my blood pressure.I plan to order additional DVDs of Denise's.I hope she continues forever.

good workout if you can take Denise (I can't)
I had misgivings about buying a yoga DVD lead by an aerobic queen, and I wish I'd listened to them.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Movie    5. Exercise   

Features

• Color
• NTSC
• Gay Gasper shows her top 10 exercises to tone and flatten your tummy
• Throughout this workout she gives you more advanced options for the exercises, which enables you to start at any level and then advance as you become more fit.

Reviews (3)

Surprise, suprise
I was quite intrigued by this video when I first saw it on the shelf and read the back cover, thinking " What the heck, I'll give it a try." I am impressed! From the very first workout, I could feel my abs really working and the very next day, believe it or not, I could actually see a difference! My stomach got flatter and my sides definitely narrowed. I am extremely pleased with this video and highly recommend it.It is effective, fun and easy to follow. I'm just starting out with this workout, but I'm quite confident this is the one that will help me get leaner and more defined abs. Great workout!

Easy to follow workout forman or woman of any age.
I am a 66 year old female. (Not too many videos out there for people our age.) Although I appear younger. I'm an active person. I do aerobics, lifts weights and watch my diet. My problem has been with my stomach and flabby underarms or the triceps muscles. ABOUT TIME A REAL WORKOUTIS PRESENTED
I FOUND HE VIDEO AND INSTRUCTOR INSPIRATIONAL . FIRST, A REAL VARIETY OF EXERCISES WAS PERFORMED AND EXPLAINED IN DETAIL. SECOND, THE SEQUENCE OF EXERCISES WAS WELL PLANNED OUT AND FITS WELL FOR PEOPLE OF ALL FITNESS LEVELS. THIRD, GAY IS INSIRATIONAL AND HER ABS ARE SOMETHING TO PUSH FOR. IN SHORT , I FOUND IT EASY TO UNDERSTAND, WELL PLANNED OUT, CHALLENGING AND A REAL ASSET TO MY VIDEO COLLECTIONRead more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

Minna Lessig, a former Ms. Fitness USA and N.P.C. National Fitness Champion, leads this 30-minute circuit-training workout, which alternates 2.5minutes of aerobic exercise with 1.5 minutes of muscle training in six 4-minute circuits. You'll keep your heart rate up and tone at the same time. The routine will appeal to exercisers who want to get the job done without dance or frills. The aerobic moves are athletic: scissor jumps, kicks, punches, and jumping jacks--nothing dancier than a grapevine. (No low-impact modifications are shown for the jumps.) The muscle intervals include controlled moves such as lunge variations, squats, plies, and push-ups. You don't use weights, but you'll fatigue at least the lower-body muscles though sheer repetition.Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC
• This easy to follow circuit training program alternates effective fat burning cardio and target toning exercises for a leaner, stronger body
• You'll burn calories and increase muscle definition at the same time

Reviews (34)

Pretty good workout
As others have said, it's not for those with bad knees. The workout involves a lot of jumping and squats.
be prepared to feel the burn
I was hesitant to try this DVD, as I generally hate workout DVDs and don't find them useful, but after trying it out, my mind has been changed.I actually can see the results of three days a week of Fat Eliminator:in only four weeks there's more tone in my thighs and [...], and I can now fit back into my "skinny jeans."Even though the workouts are hard (and "hard" is an understatement), they leave me energized and looking forward to the next one.As for Minna, she is easily the best instructor I've seen on a DVD.She's encouraging without being cloying, and she's done a great job in putting together a workout that those of us who lack the coordination for dance moves can do.Her instruction is easy to follow without being too talky.She also looks like someone who's in shape and not just skinny and has muscled rather than just skinny people working out with her, which is nice to see.
Fat Eliminator - Excellent Video!!
I've been working out for an entire year consistently; LOVE squats & lunges.However, while looking for something new for variety, found this video but wasnt sure about its effectiveness without weights (can squat 50 lbs for 65 reps).OH MY GOD!! this workout will have your legs SCREAMING!!! I've seen a little more cut within the thigh muscles already.Never underestimate a workout using only body weight.This tape is now part of my regular weekly workout.Its very little investment for INCREDIBLE results!!
Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Movie   

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (14)

missing the strechy band
I loved the tape, only thing is Amazon did not advertise the need for the strechy band. But you can call on the number on back of the DVD and order one or go to Super Walmart and buy it their. Other then that that's not leslie's fault because her site advertises the need for it. WHY I LOVE it.... Well I lost a lot of weight with the tape, I used it everyday and went from a size 14 to a size 6 in a matter of months. That includes eating well and doing some extra push-up and crunches on my own 3 times a week after the Walk strong workout.. NOT dieting.. I hate diets to loose weight... I would definetly recommend her tape to my friends as I have and they love it too... Matter fact I lost so much weight I would love to be in her vidoes as a supportive person letting it be known they really do work... I enjoyed the toning in walk strong, that's my favorite...

They didn't include the stretchy thing
You can not do this dvd without the exercise band and no where on the description did it say that would be not included. I had to buy it separatley after giving the dvd as a gift

Leslie Sansone: Walk away the pounds express- walk strong
great work out. It target every part of the body without making you feel over tired.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Features

• Color

Reviews (1)

Power Mile Isn't Powerful
This video does not meet Leslie's usual high quality. The music is not up to par and the sound fades in and out, which is very distracting. At one point, it is difficult to hear the music at all. The routine is short but by using hand weights, Leslie manages to create a more intense workout in 20 minutes. ... Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (10)

Wonderful relaxation, stretching is a bonus
This tape saved my sanity last year when I was a bit low and blue.Tamilee's voice is very soothing, the transition between poses flow nicely.I purchased the two-tape set because the 2-tape set was still a good price (this tape plus "Total Body Stretch for Beginners" for the purpose of improving my flexibility.I thought I would use the latter tape most of the time since I felt I would be more willing set set aside 10 minutes rather than the 30 minutes required for this tape. By the second viewing of this tape, "Beginners Stretch for Flexibility", I had learned the moves so that I now do the entire routine with my eyes shut as I simply follow along by only LISTENNING.I do this tape several times a week, just before bedtime, I never seem to tire of it, and it leaves me substantially calmer and more relaxed than when I begin.I am delighted that this video provides me the kind of results that I've failed to achieve with a number of guided meditation tapes.I bought it for its promise of muscle flexibility, which indeed it has fulfilled, but the "guided meditation", the unadverstised benefit, is what I value most from this video.Thank you, Tamilee, for making it!

Wonderful!
I've had this video for a few years and have not grown tired of it.You stretch your whole body in 20 minutes.It starts with standing stretches mostly for your legs, then moves to the floor for hip, quad and upper body stretches.It ends with a nice relaxation segment.Tamilee is encouraging.I think she's a wonderful instructor.She has a nice, calm manner.This video is great to do at night to unwind.The garden setting is very relaxing too. I prefer this tape to yoga because you don't have to psych yourself into strenuous poses.

My first stretch video - it's GREAT!
I was searching Amazon for a stretch video.I exercise using video's a lot.One thing I noticed is that there never seems to be very much stretching at the end of my other workouts (Sansone, Denise Austin).They all seem to just want to get the workout over with.Anyway, I decided to add a stretch video to my exercise videos.This is the one I chose and I LOVE it.She is very clear in her instructions, very calming and you really feel the stretch.It feels great to do this video!If you have an extra 30 mins. and want a total body stretch this video is a great choice! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness    4. Fitness/Self-Help    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

Advanced Tae-Bo enthusiasts will enjoy this set of two 60-minute workouts, both nonstop and intense. There are drills of one move at a fast pace over and over, with up to 40 repetitions. Occasionally, you slow down for half a minute to learn a combination, but then it's back to the fast repetitions. The combinations are never complex, but they're always intense, and Blanks gives technique tips so you can focus on doing the moves for maximum effectiveness and safety. Both workouts are tough and relentless, working the whole body, burning calories, building muscle endurance, and conditioning your heart and lungs. If you do advanced Tae-Bo regularly, this set will give you two new workouts at the high intensity you prefer. Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (55)

Not for the weak, but if you're in shape, BUY IT!
I've done this workout about 4 times and all i can say is "holy X?@X!!!".I've been working out for 22 years and I am in great shape.I have a personal training license and a gym at home as well as a vast library of workouts.It has been very difficult to find video workouts that really challenge me and I've wasted a lot of money to say the least.There are no words to describe this video, but I'll try.It is DIFFICULT, EFFECTIVE, CHALLENGING AND WORTH THE MONEY A HUNDRED TIMES OVER.The only negative things I can say is that it doesn't seem safe and if you're not in shape or aware of safety, you can really hurt yourself; the warm-up should be longer and more attention should be given to warming up the cardiovascular system, he never does the amount of sets he promises- he does more, which is not necessarily a bad thing, and his counting is off.I can't stress enough that you can really hurt yourself doing this workout if you don't know what you're doing.With all that in mind, if you're in great shape and are looking for change - this is the video for you.It's worth every penny and then some.If you're not in shape and are looking for something easy and safe, this is not for you.It's a cardio workout by all means but it attacks (and I mean ATTACKS) the abdominals in a standing position and I can't tell you how effective that's been.I have 15 year old twins and I have not been able to get my stomach in any kind of permanent shape in all these years and with all my workouts.I actually have CUTS now and when I bend over, it doesn't hang anymore.Awesome, awesome, awesome.Good luck and enjoy.

Tae-Bo II Review
Of the two tapes, I think the 1st of the the two is a better tape.Both workout tapes are quite similar though.Very energetic, and a fairly tough workout

Not as easy as it looks
I ordered this tape in hopes of jumping right back into working out after having my son. When I first got the tape I played the tape just to get a feel of the workouts, after viewing it, I came to the conclusion that this was an easy workout and not worth my purchase price. EASIER SAID THAN DONE!!! After coaxing from my hubby, I decided to actually try out the tape. Did I last 10 minutes? Ha! Not even! This work out is HARD! It is not for beginners. It is for people that are used to working out. Sure sometimes during the workout Billy loses count. But thats okay, its all part of psyching your body out, LOL. If you are a beginner than start out with the BASIC workout. Save yourself the embarassment! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Gift Set    5. Movie   

Editorial Review

This innovative workout blends traditional strength-training moves, suchas squats and lunges, with yoga postures and Pilates-inspired moves in aninteresting, varied format. Led by Minna Lessig, a former Ms. Fitness USA andN.P.C. National Fitness Champion, you move gracefully from position to position.For example, beginning in a plié you transition into a warrior pose, orfrom a wide squat into a tree pose, to sounds of music with a Latin beat. Inanother exercise, Minna has you hold a push-up position (a posture called "theplank") for long enough to tremble, then push your hips up until you're in thedownward dog pose.Read more

Features

• Color
• NTSC
• This workout blends the best Eastern and Western exercises for the most innovative approwch to total body conditioning
• 45 minute workout features traditional muscle toning moves like lunges and squats, classic Yoga poses and core Pilates exercises

Reviews (25)

Love Minna!
I am just getting to know Minna and so far I love her personality and her attitude during the workouts.I first saw her in the quick ten minutes video that she does with two other instructors (can't remember the name because i didn't really like it) and she immediately stood out to me.I plugged her name into Amazon and came upon this video which i think is wonderful.The tone of her voice is not annoying at all and you can actually hear her breathing hard during the cardio which makes me feel better.The back ground people are average people too.There is an older lady, a really skinny girl, a girl that has a body like myself, and a really fit aisian girl.Most of all I love the 2nd portion of the video for days when i don't feel like jumping around so much.It's more toning but don't get me wrong - you still break out in a sweat.I have had this dvd for about 3 weeks and have been switching back and forth from the cardio/strength to the strength and grace portion and i have noticed a difference in my body, especially my [back] and thighs.I would give this 10 stars if they allowed it!

strength & grace ~ a must have
Minna is not only a pleasant instructor, but she gives you a real challenge of a workout. This workout both builds muscle strength and develops balance. While perhaps a challenge for a beginner, this video will bring you to the next level in core strength and stability. What I like about "Strength & Grace" is the incorporation of key yoga poses like warrior, tree and downward dog. Even though I do work out regularly, there are some moves that are balance challenging; like the "T" Pose. The ab section is also very good; using moves like boat pose. This is a wonderful overall workout and the music fits perfectly. Love this video!

Combine Traditional Gym Moves with Yoga & Pilates for Streng
Workout Description:about 30 minutes of toning (most standing, with some floorwork towards the end; focuses on lower body with some abs and minimal upper body) with 7 minute warm-up and 10 minute cool-down / stretch for a total of about 47 minutes
Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise    2. Exercise/Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Movie   

Editorial Review

You know step aerobic workouts are great fat burners, but did you realize how well they define and sculpt the lower-body muscles? This superb 50-minute workout is one of Kathy Smith's best. She uses the step positioned perpendicular to the TV, so rather than the usual up-up-down-down moves, you're stepping up from the side and lifting the other leg, or going over the top. This workout is divided into three parts. After a 6-minute workout, segment 1 (16 minutes) builds muscle endurance with an aerobic workout using moves that focus on the thigh and buttock muscles. The routine is intense and athletic, with no dance moves or complicated arm work. Smith includes some optional plyometric (jumping) moves. Segment 2 (10 minutes) uses intense, standing exercises to strengthen and shape the buttocks and thighs, such as squats straddling the step and lunges with one foot on the step. Segment 3 (10 minutes) uses high-intensity isolation exercises, similar to traditional floor work with some innovative additions, weights optional. Then a 5-minute cool down lets your muscles stretch and recover. If you want to challenge and sculpt your lower body and get your aerobic workout at the same time, this could become your favorite tape! Read more

Features

• Color
• Original recording reissued
• NTSC

Reviews (36)

Fun step routine with lower body toning...
I like this workout, it is about an hour long and while it is billed as a step workout, there are lots of toning moves for the lower body as well.Overall a good leg and bun shaper and you will feel it.Led by Kathy Smith, she is joined by a fairly large class, mostly female who are of various fitness levels.
Burn It with the Banchee Woman!
I recently bought The Step wich came with Cathe Frederick's Basic Step. After mastering that, I felt I should move on to a more intermediate video and after a little online shopping, decided to purchase this video.
burn baby burn
this is one heck of a thigh-toning, butt-toning, high stepping workout! From get go to get gone the moves make you aware of every muscle that is working. A little difficult to follow at first but hang with it and in no time you flow right along. Two thumbs way up!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness    2. Fitness    3. Fitness/Self-Help    4. Movie   

Features

• Color
• NTSC

Reviews (2)

No Fancy Moves - Good Basics
This workout is excellent for beginners.I particularly appreciated Kathy's instruction techniques and pointers.The best part about this workout is that there is thorough preparation for the toning segment (warm-up plus aerobics).Since I'm no dancer, this workout was easy for me to follow because the choreography is basic.

Excellent tape
This is not just a workout tape, it is a 12 week structured weight loss program, designed into the tape, and it really works. I love the workout, the moves are very creative and fun. Its like dancing not working out, and it can be pretty intense at times if you throw in the jumping moves. I use it then I follow it with Kathy Smith's Ultimate workout which is torture!It is akiller cardio workout. I am in great shape and my heart rate always gets up to 185 beats per min while doing it. I think it should be illegal,,hehe get these tapes. Her winning workout may be older and have cheezier music and clothes but the moves are great and very different than her newer tapes. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Exercise/Fitness