Editorial Review

Callan Pinckney's Callanetics--a program of nonimpact, deep-muscle exercises--has been popular for decades. In this workout, Read more

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Reviews (21)

The right length for an add-on
Many reviewers have mentioned that this tape is excellent for short morning and evening routines (as its name implies); however, I find the 20-minute length perfect as an add-on to my cardio routines so I tend to alternate one 20-minute workout each day (sometimes every other day). I prefer these to the Quick Callanetics set, as each AM/PM routine is a complete total body program unto itself. I do use Callanetics or Super Callanetics occasionally when I have more time, but this AM/PM program is my mainstay and in constant use. It works!

AS LONG AS IT'S DONE CORRECTLY....
YOU WILL DEFINITELY SEE RAPID RESULTS. Good short Callanetics routines
I recently tried Callanetics for the first time via the original 60-minute program.I loved the short, targeted, effective movements, but because it was difficult for me to find time to do the entire workout, I decided to give the AM/PM tape a try.The two 20-minute workouts on this tape include a majority of the exercises from the original video (some have been left out).Although the workouts are designed to be used in the morning (energizing) and in the evening (relaxing), the inclusion of moves in either the AM or PM routine seemed arbitrary to me.In addition, I found the 20 minute format to be a bit TOO short for my liking; just when I was starting to feel like I was getting a good workout, it was over.For some people, however, this time period might be ideal, and this video does offer a good introduction to the Callanetics method.As always, Callan is a gentle, supportive, and encouraging instructor who constantly reassures her students that they can go at their own pace.Callanetics is a great alternative exercise style to incorporate into your fitness routine, and if you are pressed for time, this video offers an ideal solution. ... Read more

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Reviews (10)

great tape if you like Pilates
I highly recommend this tape to anyone who wants to do pilates.Initialy I was skeptical because the first few minutes of warmup is very boring, but she soon moves on to more challenging exercises, especially a lot of variations of V-sits.Also, initially I was reluctant about the length of the video (~50 minutes), but since she moves from one move to the next, the time passed quickly and she doesn't waste time sitting around.
Extraordinary
I have little more to add that hasn't already been stated quite eloquently in prior reviews.This is a truly superb and challenging video.My wife and I have noticed exceptional toning and definition, as a result of this particular regimen.Our only hope is that Moira will come out with another similarly advanced version.If you're seeking relatively quick and superior results, then this video should certainly meet your expectations.

Great Results
I have had 3 kids in less than 5 years and really thought I would never have a tight, thin stomach without surgery.I have used this video alternating it with Windsor Pilates and mild cardio for my workouts.I saw results in 2 weeks.Now, I am normally a size 8 but can wear a 6 now. I didn't have much weight to lose but wanted to tone my midsection.This tape is great.Pilates is one of the best ways to tone your abs when combined with a sensible diet and some cardio.You will see the best results by alternating it everyday with something different.I like Taebo's Basic workout.Again, I have 3 young kids so I like a workout that is quick but effective! ... Read more

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Editorial Review

Another fun video from Read more

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Reviews (37)

impressive!
i borrowed this tape from someone and was impressed enough to order a copy for myself. this is a more beginner-friendly pilates-type workout. the sets are shorter than some of the other pilates tapes, the tape is filmed in a beautiful studio with live drummers. nice change from all the bad 80's style music in so many tapes. a good workout any time, but i prefer to do this one at night. the more variety in your abdominal workout, the better results you will get. this is a nice addition to my daily workout.

A good workout
I am a new mom and have a hard time getting off to the gym so I have invested in workout tapes.I have tried about four others and than recently I got this as a christmas gift and popped it in.I immediately liked that it moved fast. The point is, is that you don't do the same excercise 20 times and than move on - you do it a couple and than move on -BECAUSE IT WORKS SO WELL -IT WILL TONE YOU AND WORK OUT THAT AREA - instead of unneeded repetition. You get a workout everywhere.the next day I was the most sore I have ever been, and I thought the workout was easy.I have done the tape two more times - and I am excited beforehand! I DON'T HAVE TO NAG / MOTIVATE MYSELF TO DO IT. :) I highly recommend this to anyone - I have NEVER done pilates or ballet and this was a little hard, but easier each time you do it!

Great Tape!!!
I picked this up for a change of pace and was pleasantly surprised.You will definitely feel it not long after doing it.I have a lot of other yoga/pilates/stretching type tapes, but none have made me as sore as this.This one is a winner! ... Read more

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Editorial Review

T'ai chi, the classic Chinese exercise for health, self-defense, and spiritual growth, is "meditation in movement." It emphasizes relaxation, breath control, visual and mental concentration, and slow, balanced movement, explains the voiceover in Read more

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Reviews (38)

Real Tai Chi
This is a DVD for those who have taken "Real" tai chi. Not the kind taught in most gyms or health spas which is just a form of dancing. To take Tai Chi one must learn Qi Qong the two go hand in hand. If you do not focus on mastering the internal aspects of Tai Chi breathing and meditation you are just dancing. So that being said, I have studied this form under a respected master of Tai Chi and I can say the this video is a great companion to taking a real class. This gives you the ability to go home and practice while having a good reference as to how to do the postures correctly. This is not a "workout" video and people who do Tai Chi to "workout" don't understand what this internal form of martial art is all about. Tai Chi takes a life time to master it is not a quick fix for you or your health. If you try to take shortcuts you will not master Tai Chi you will just be dancing and although this may look cool to the uneducated it is not doing you any good. The comment made about the warm up being too long is a sure sign that the person who wrote that does not have the patience to work with Tai Chi. I went to class 3 times a week for over 6 months before I could even progress past the warm up. If you don't have the patience to develop the basics don't bother with the moves because you will be doing them incorrectly and you won't have the stamina needed to do the whole form correctly. Terry Dunn does the forms exactly as the old masters teach them and if they are too difficult for you then go to your gym and take "tai chi dancing" and pretend you are a martial artist. If you have the patience to learn real tai chi then this DVD is a great way to learn it form the ground up.

Excellent Instruction - not a workout video
This is a VERY low budget production. It doesn't have anyone big for a face draw for funding, so the lack of a set, the mediocre camera management, and the lack of separate takes can be distraction to people who are trying to use this as a workout video. THIS IS NOT A WORKOUT VIDEO. This is an instructional video showing the basic postures of the Yang short-form of T'ai Chi. This is a teaching video, showing postures in time-consuming detail.
Lacks editing!
I think this DVD is a waste of money, to be honest. Just starting the movie, several times does he say to move one leg while he moves the opposite. He also stutters several times while doing so. I dont find it the best way to learn and would rather just buy a book now.
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Reviews (19)

Rachel McLish is Positively the Best!!!
I remember when my parents purchased this tape a while back, and I remember adding it to my own routine when I was young.
get educated and get strong!
I bought this VHS several years ago, and have never looked back. I alternate it with other strength-training videos and DVD's but it is my core (pardon the pun) workout for weight-lifting.
#1
I have had this video from the time it came out.There was a time when I had some medical problems and couldn't work out.I have since started back and am getting back in shape with the "In Shape" video.This video is by far the best exercise video. I have worked out with the sweat, high impact, and very physical video's but the "In Shape" video by far gives me a better out come.I was looking forward to another video.In one of Rachel's special's, she stated that she was working on a series of these.I was wondering if they were ever published.I would love to get my hands on them.Like I said the video "In Shape" is #1.Please let me know if I can get more exercise video's.Also, Rachel, you are my idol.We are the same age and you look great. I have had 4 kids and have had some ups and downs but you still inspire me. What are some of your beauty secrets.You look great. ... Read more

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Reviews (19)

DVD Please!!!!
I thik all 4 of her videos are amazing. The legs video is my favorite, because you see results within two weeks.I really would love to see them on DVD, they are the only reason I have a VCR still.
Please Please PLEASE release these all on DVD!!
I love these videos but it's a pain to hook up my VCR so I need them on DVD now. They're so great & effective, please put them on DVD already. I've been doing them for 9 years now and they are the best comprehensive home workout around. Judging by these Amazon reviews, I'm not the only frustrated Perfectly Fit-fan. So please put them on DVD ASAP and I will buy them all over again!!
Very Good For the Beginner
As a Pro Trainer, I always like to see programs for beginners - it is the population that needs the most help.
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Editorial Review

The three-volume set, Read more

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Reviews (23)

Flow series, serious yoga!
This is the absolute best Yoga instructional series.It is easy to folow but challenging at the same time.I found the Earth tape to be alittle too slow, but I recommend it for those who are extreme couch potatoes, or overweight, however it is a great beginner instruction manual.I would recommend skipping straight to Water if you are already in decent shape or have some experience with yoga or pilates.Fire will kick your butt, which makes it very challenging after you have mastered the Water tape, but it is still do-able.All in all I like these videos because of the complete instructions, and the variations shown by using the 2 yoga instructors, also they show the whole body, and proper positioning throughout the series unlike some videos that continually zoom in on the teachers face for effect.The first week with these tapes I noticed a a great difference in my flexability, and muscle tone, after a month I could do things with my body I havent done since middle school.I recommend this series for anyone who wants to learn some real Yoga and be challenged.

a really nice practice set
i really enjoy the three workouts. water is the one i practice with most, since i like the pace. the instruction is very good, and gives you enough time to work through the poses without feeling rushed. this set is great for anyone who wants to develop a yoga practice, from new beginner to advanced ability.
Sun Saluations and More Sun Salutations
I found these series of tapes to be repetitive and a little dry (dull studio).There was not much difference between the format of first and last tapes and far too many sun salutations.I was disapointed that there were so few variety of poses - no hero, crow, camel (not sure here), or standing poses (no eagle, standing pulling bow pose) in the tapes.I found the use of terms such as "tuck in the tail" - we have a tail? - instead of tail bone or "embryo" instead of "child's pose" annoying and not familiar to me.Also there is need of a empty wall surface at one point and I don't have one.Tracy's accent bothered me as well. However these tapes are very professional in the way Tracy and Gangi show you how to do the poses, correct positioning etc. but again a little boring and repetitive. ... Read more

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Reviews (23)

Relaxing and enjoyable
I purchased this tape for my mother as a gift. She watches it a few times a week and deeply enjoys the relaxation it provides her with. I have watched it and feel it is profound for those who can accept what it offers. The quality is good. This was a good investment.

Amazing
The first time I viewed this video, I was suffering from several slipped disks and sciatica. Visits to the chiropractor were not helping. I watched the video mainly to see whether it would help me overcome the depression that accompanied my pain, and to my surprise, it gave me more relief than doctors or drugs! Since then, I've used it for back problems, stiff necks, acid stomach, insomnia, headaches, depression, life-direction indecision and low energy. It has helped every problem, every time I've used it, even when nothing else has worked! Do yourself a favor and try it!

Video for Growth
I found this video on the Chakras to be extremely helpful and healing.The first part on the description of the Chakras was very informative and the actual open-eye meditation was excellent.I use this video for self healing and for others.It is also good for group sessions.Read more

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Review of David Carradine's Tai Chi For Mind & Body
This two-video set combines the best of David's presentation-style, with Arnold Tayam's information on Chen-style Tai Chi! This along with fine production-values featuring music by John Serrie makes this box-set a winner! A great addition to David Carradine's "Chi Kung For Beginners" and David Carradine's "Tai Chi Workout For Beginners"

I have to say I wanted to hate this video
I have to say I wanted to hate this video. I mean David Carradine, b-movie actor, chinese wannabe, 1970's kung-fu guy ...who would have thought this video would be anything other than a joke. But....I was forced to eat my words, and feelings. The video, most likley do to Arnold Taiam and his direct connection to Real Chi Gong and Kung Fu, actually make a good , easy to follow, video that is more than benificial to the viewer than 90 percent of the other videos ive seen on the topic. Kung Fuy
This guy really irks me; always trying to pass himself off as a Martial Artist just because he starred in the TV series "Kung Fu". He's a joke in the Martial arts community. His forms are atrocious, and his advice should never be listened to. ... Read more

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Editorial Review

"You don't need to be thin, young, and a contortionist to do this program," says instructor Peggy Cappy. Read more

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Reviews (30)

What a Difference
So far I've only done the stretching, but it's made a BIG difference in my breathing and mobility. After several hours of sitting at a computer, I don't have the stiffness I usually experience. I also fall asleep very easily if I do the stretching routine shortly before bed.
Excellent intro to yoga
The primary value of this DVD for me is the modified Sun Salutation using a chair. This series of poses had always been a challenge and now it's much easier. Hardcore yoga wonks won't like this, but it is a very good introduction and has helped me start and continue my practice. I also recommend Peggy Cappy's follow-up DVD, More Yoga for the Rest of Us, and her companion book, Yoga for All of Us.

Yoga for Elders
I bought this tape for my 86 year old Mother.She enjoys it and has shown it to a friend who is interested in getting one for herself. ... Read more

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Editorial Review

In this workout, formerly titled Read more

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Reviews (9)

Best One Yet
I have most of Richard's workouts. This one is by far the best, but only if you have done aerobics before. If you're a beginner, start with his first one and work your way up. The routines are more complex, but more varied. Not boring, in other words. If you're more into advanced aerobics, this is for you.

Great when you get the hang of it!
This video is really great when you get the steps down.He is confusing at first, but after a few times you'll get it down.I have a herniated disk in my back so I haven't been able to go back to the Tae-Bo-type workouts quite yet.This video was wonderful for my back.It made me feel better, which (anyone with a bad back will tell you) is a miracle after aerobics.You aren't jolting your back at all.I add more intensity by incorporating larger movements into the workout.You don't have to follow him EXACTLY! Never Knew What To Expect Next
I am not a beginner of video workouts.But I found this one confusing.By confusing I mean, I never knew the next step.I enjoyed the music but I was just jumping around and since Richard did not show nor tell you what kind of step you were going to be doing I could not get in sync with the tape.I prefer those videos that have more explicit instructions. ... Read more

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Editorial Review

If you, like most Western practitioners, are familiar primarily with thehatha style of yoga, this tape will be a revelation. Kundalini yoga, as instructed here by the Sikh teacher Gurmukh, is Read more

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Reviews (37)

Slow and Steady
As an owner of the VHS version 3 years ago, I practiced this video for about 4 months before I made a major move to another country. My practice involved just the awaken section of the workout as I was really out of shape. I then moved to Korea where I no longer had the tape to workout with. That brings us up to date when I recently I found the DVD version was available. In the meantime I had gotten myself in much better condition by a slow and steady yoga practice that has served to build up strength endurance and mental clarity. magical
The more I do this the more I like it. I've tried hatha, ashtanga and kundalini yoga and I've found kundalini to be the one that resonates with me the best - it's a great work out and way more fun than power yoga. Gurmukh is a weirdo, it's true; the first time she said "imagine you're on a carnival ride, and the best part is: the ride is you" I cringed, but having felt what kundalini does to my body and mind (pure ecstacy)I think she's an angel. I've done some investigating and it's true that she was 58 when she made this video! Crazy. Maybe not for everyone, but I love it!

Good workout, a few reservations
Let me start by saying I don't know anything about Kundalini yoga other than what's in this video, so I can't speak to whether it's authentic, dumbed down, etc.But I think this tape is a pretty good workout for someone like me, i.e., no back or knee problems, 5 months after having her third kid wants to lose those last 10 lbs. and get back into some semblance of shape, needs a relatively short workout and generally likes the stress-relieving aspects of yoga.Read more

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Editorial Review

Rodney Yee leads Read more

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Reviews (69)

Good AB Workout
When I first did this video I thought this isn't doing anything. I don't feel like I'm working out at all...then the next day my ABs were sore (in a good way)! I was surprised such a low impact workout could work so well.

Excellent ab routine
Excellent workout but too hard for many beginners. Great relaxing workout
This tape is phenomenal.I never thought I could find an ab workout relaxing, but that's exactly what this tape offers.There's a strong focus on breathing and some of the new age things you come to expect with yoga, but it definately provides a great ab workout in a short amount of time.Read more

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Editorial Review

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Not for beginners!!!!
I am glad to see that the dvd is not touted as a beginners workout like the vhs was.I also really do not recommend practicing yoga without taking classes, if classes are not available to you then read as many books as you can on the subject particulary paying attention to alignment principles.You will eventually injure yourself if you do not fully understand how to do the asanas.Look for an Iyengar teacher as they are excellent in teaching alignment.Use this dvd as a complement to your classes.
a great video for dancers and skaters!
I got this tape out of the library last week, and liked it so much I'm buying it! This is the perfect tape if you're already in very good shape (have a strong back and are flexible) and want to push yourself to the next level. For the past year I've been doing Pilates (on DVD) and light acrobatics, but now that I don't have access to a rink I needed something to keep up, and increase, my strength and flexibility. If you're taking a skating, dancing, or acrobatics class on Saturday, the first section of this video is just the thing to do Wednesday! You can do the easier (forward bends) section on the other days. Also, I like the way Patricia Walden talks you through the workout; it's calming yet energizing. There are also modifications of any moves that are too difficult.

Get Flexible, but feel challanged
This is definitely a challanging video (and only the second session seems like a beginners practise to me)- but, it has become one of my favorites. I was a cheerleader in highschool and very flexible, but, hadn't done any flexibility exercises in *years*. Read more

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Reviews (10)

Get ready to sweat
Ten years after purchasing this video (and step assembly, I still love it. The workouts are amazingly intense, and keep you feeling fit in a vibrant, almost exhausting way. Not for the meek, and definitely invest in good sneakers! The Number One exercise video in my library
I purchased this video in 1993 and I have purchased a number of other exercise videos since then.After 10 years, this is still my favorite exercise video. Whenever I feel like I need to burn serious calories, I use this video.At my current fitness level, I use 3lb weights to increase the intensity of the workout, but that just demonstrates how easy it is to adapt this video to your routine.It is easy to modify this workout to your fitness level and still get a great workout.I recommend it as a a staple in everyone's exercise video library.

Great workout, fantastic instructor and approach...
I started using this video in college. My step aerobics instructor used this for our PE tests so that she would be able to observe and score us. I appreciate this video more than any other step video that I've ever used. Read more

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Very Good Workout
It's hard to keep up with when you first start out, but all 3 workouts are great & you can go at your own pace. I'd definitely recommend it. I do one 12 minute workout each day after doing some aerobic exercises, & I started seeing a difference after just a few weeks.

fun & effective!
i really like this tape. the workout is challenging but well paced and after nearly two weeks i am definitely seeing results in my biggest problem area: the ABS!
Easy to stick with
I have only used the ab portion of this video, but the results are great and quick. I do not have the flattest belly, but when I use this I can see a huge difference within a week or two. The best part is that you only need to really do it 3 times a week, minimum. The reason I think it works is because, though it is only 12 minutes, it's 12 minutes non-stop ab work. As soon as you start saying "ouch" she moves onto the next exercise. I've lost my original copy so I just ordered a new one........I'm so glad it's still in print. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! ... Read more

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• Takes you through steps with ease so that you too can maximize the benefits of aerobic exercise
• Instructor Gay Gasper offers step-by-step instructions for the 10 basic exercises that make up any aerobic routine
• Incorporates both high and low-impact choices in an effective workout to help you burn more fat, use more calories every day and meet your fitness goals

Reviews (18)

Fat Burning Workout
Excellent video, getting back to the basics of aerobics.Everything is clearly explained, easy to follow.Good for me in my mid-forties, the moves are hard enough to get a workout, easy enough to not injure myself.

LOVE this workout!
When I started using this workout, I was a beginner at aerobics.I borrowed about 2 dozen aerobics videos from the library, hoping to find a few that I could cycle through.I found, however, that a lot of the videos expect you to jump right into a routine without walking you through it, and featured a large group of participants or really silly scenarios/instructors, which I found distracting.NONE of the other videos could compare to this one.
Disappointed
The video is strictly for beginners--which I should have known.It is slow slow slow.Makes the work out go on for what seems like forever.I am returning to 8 minute abs and arms legs and buns.It too is for beginners but does not waste the video time the Dummies tape does. ... Read more

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absolutely worth it
having never done any tai chi (but other workouts such as kickboxing, step...) i was very anxious to discover this new kind of peaceful workout. This tape is absolutely great.
Great Tai Chi video
This is a great video for anyone new to tai chi. Multiple angles are used to take into account that you are doing the movements from home. The instruction is clear and there's a great warmup segment that describes the correct way to do the exercises. I would recommend it to anyone.

T'ai Chi:The Empowering Workout
This video is very well done.The scenery is beautiful and music calming.Extremely professional, Jerry Allen Johnson provides a most relaxed atmosphere andis very easy to follow.You feel rexaxed and energized when you finishthis workout. ... Read more

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Reviews (8)

Flexibility for life
I have been using this video for seven years.I wanted to become more flexible as I found at 52 I was stiffening up.I viewed about 10 different videos to find a tape I could stand to watch repeatedly.After seven years, I have never tired of using this tape.I spend each morning before work with this tape and move and think more flexibly because of it. It saved my body and when I've had to go to physical therapy a couple of times they say, "You are very flexible!"I owe it to this tape which I originally found at the library and titled something like Yoga for Flexibility. Are you stiff, painful, not so strong, need good chair work
This is an excellent stretch and toning workout for anyone who is sedentary, stiff, needs to sit, has pain anywhere. This workout is done with a chair and some floor work. It is actually the beginning of the practice of yoga in a safe way. I have worked with seniors for years and highly recommend this video to increase flexibility, strength, coordination and comfort.