Description

Yoga Journal and Lamaze® introduce a new way to experience a radiant pregnancy and healthy birth. This easy-to-follow video, guided by prenatal expert Kristen Eykel, features two practices—each specifically designed for moms-to-be.< Whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, you’ll get the tools you need to face the physical and emotional changes of your pregnancy with focus and grace. Energizing & Strengthening [30 minutes] A gentle, flowing practice to build strength and stamina for the demands of labor—and alleviate the discomfort caused by your ever-changing body.

Relaxing & Rejuvenating
[15 minutes] A calming, restorative practice to help you unwind tension at any time of day and help you sleep better.

Plus: An interview with Lamaze instructor Carol Penn-Erskine.
This video shows you how to modify some poses using yoga props. Depending on your flexibility and stage of pregnancy, you may need a chair, two large pillows, a blanket, or sofa cushions. The use of a yoga mat is recommended.

Running time: Approx. 105 minutes
Standard full frame 1.33:1
This disc is compatible with all DVDplayers displaying these symbols.

Pranayama for Pregnancy
Three simple breathing techniques to calm your nervous system.

Meditation for Pregnancy
Guided meditation to help foster inner focus and awareness.

Birthing-Room Yoga
Simple yoga techniques toencourage a peaceful mindand body during delivery.

Postnatal Yoga Practice
A gentle practice to help you regain strength and flexibility6 weeks after delivery.

Articles from Yoga Journal & Lamaze Parentson yoga and pregnancy ona special DVD-ROM section. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun and Easy to Follow
Not to contradict the prior reviewer, but after fumbling through the typical first run-through of any new exercise video, I found this one fairly easy to follow.

As with all the other Richard Simmons videos I've done, this one is fun, set to contagious great music that makes you want to move, the exercisers all appear to be having a genuinely good time and Richard Simmons is his usual energetic, motivational and funny self.In typical fashion, Richard uses names for the moves that are both descriptive and make me laugh - one sequence in particular from this one is a scream - "dance" (as if you're being lead in a tango), "hug" (arms wrapped around yourself) and "hair" (arm bent at elbow and moved from front of head to back) - who else but Richard Simmons?

The 40 minutes is comprised of a warm up/workout/cool down that runs about 30 minutes, followed by a toning portion using wrist weights that lasts about 10 minutes.The moves are easy to do and can be performed at whatever amount of intensity or energy that fits your level of fitness - you can turn it up or down to meet your needs.

After years of being an inconsistent exerciser, I decided to give it one more try and started using a Richard Simmons tape (Sweat & Tone, which I highly recommend for toning) and got hooked.For the first time in my life, I actually look forward to exercising, have lost weight (am dieting too), and feel so much better and more energetic!I'm in the process of buying every Simmons video/DVD I can get.In all honesty, I never took him seriously until I did one of his tapes and my only regret is that I didn't wise up sooner.

Great (but slightly complicated) workout!
I bought this together with Latin Blast-Off, and this is definitely much better than the Latin one.I especially like the toning session at the end.It uses cool weights, so you might need to buy them if they don't come with your video.A few cautions: if you are not good at following slightly intricate workouts, this is not the tape for you.I am usually very good at that, but this tape took me several viewings before I was doing every single move right.Also, I don't especially love the way the tape was edited.It made me think the editor was just trying to show off.The angles don't make much sense for a workout video.They will start a new step, and the video will focus on someone's face or something.You won't be able to see what the footwork is until later.Still, the workout is great, so I didn't give it less stars! ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Good workout, but not yoga!
I'm a big Denise Austin fan, so I was prepared to love this video, but I've got to tell you--I'm pretty disappointed. This was a good workout, but there was very little yoga to do with it. While the postures and moves are based in yoga, it seems a stretch to call the workout itself yoga; there is no emphasis on breath, there is no emphasis on posture or correct form. It is definitely not a beginner workout. It is a good aerobic workout, and yes, all of my muscles feel it today, but if you're looking for a good YOGA workout that will yield the same results, try Crunch's Yoga videos--they're great.

Give your muscles a new challenge.......
As an experienced intermediate exerciser, this workout was a little something different. It begins with a faster-paced 30 minute yoga workout that does increase your heart rate a little and challenges your muscles. Sometimes however, the faster pace interupts the usual flow that yoga has, and you kind of stumble into the moves the first few times. For safety I recommend practicing the moves by pausing the vcr throughout the first section the first time using it. Honestly, I do wish Denise held the stretches longer. I can feel the strength and flexibility benefits though, and after the first time, I had a mild soreness the next day to show I'd challenged my muscles, but no lasting pain of any kind. The second workout on the tape is a 15 minute strength and flexibility workout, where poses are challenging and held longer. It challenges the arms as well, which is good, to provide balance since the first workout used mainly the lower body muscles. The tape also includes a workout for abdominals and total body conditioning, which recommends a "stability ball", this portion gives your abdominals and back a good workout. All in all, this video can add something different to your workout routine, once you get used to the rushed pacing.

Not for beginners
I absolutely love this DVD. The workout is quick (30 mins or 15 mins segments)and invigorating. I would not recommend this DVD to beginners, however. Many of the moves need to be familiar to have the best effect. I would recommend Denise Austin's Yoga Essentials for someone who wants to learn the basic moves in yoga. Once the basics are learned, following along with this DVD is easy.
I do wish there were alternative exercises for those who do not have the exercise ball in the 15 min ab segments. I skip this part.
Contrary to all the negative comments about Denise's perkiness, I find her helpful and uplifting, and she keeps me on task. The reminders about body positions are necessary.
I will recommend this DVD.

Excellent introduction to yoga and tool to get in condition
If you enjoy Dennis Austin, then definately try this video. As a beginner to intermediate level exerciser, I found this video to be challenging and enjoyable. I appreciated Dennis's encouragement and marveled at the simplicity and effectiveness of the movements executed over time. I used this program as the foundation for my routine over a 10 month period and after a while, added other videos for variety, however, I always came back to this as a favorite. Thanks Dennis for helping me achieve my fitness goals beyond what I thought I could do! Now that summer is getting too humid for my outdoor routine, I'm upgrading to a DVD version. Rene King

Crikey!
I've never written a review before, but I feel very strongly about this workout video and think everyone should know about it. Why? 'Cause it sucks. I'm not joking. Denise Austin is like a mad woman in this video... she's all over the damned place and her voice is constantly grating. Yap-Yap-Yap... Yoga is supposed to be relaxing, but this woman is like a crazy dyslexic hurricane who's all over the place. I'll probably give it another shot... the workout itself looks cool, but it's just too damned fast. ... Read more

Amazon.com

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.

An extra "targeted toning" section at the end adds 15 optional minutes of light weights, traditional floor work, and abs. One cautionary note: many of the exercises that could be done standing or in a lunge position are, instead, performed kneeling on one or both knees, making these exercisesuncomfortable or impossible for older exercisers or those with knee problems.--Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Finally, a fitness video for the new millenium!
This video is a wonderful update to my collection. Minna Lessing is down to earth, easy to follow and is a good example of strength and beauty. No annoying or distracting cheerleading, just an overall great workout. You almost feel like you are right in the aerobics studio with her. This tape works your lower body completely. As an ex fitness instructor, I found her workout to be challenging, yet easy enough to follow, even for beginners. No fancy moves here! The circuits make the time fly by, and you'll find yourself begging for more. The 15 minute fat blaster at the end isn't the greatest toning routine, but it is effective. I would definitely recommend a mat, as some of the upper body toning is done on the knees. This one tape has replaced about three of my Denise Austin workouts. I look forward to more releases from Minna.

Not for those with bad knees
I have been working out using this video for a month now, and I love the results! The primary exercises for the strength segments are lunges, push-ups, and several squat variations. The aerobic exercise segments often just modify the lunges and squats to make them jumps, but there are also some karate kick and punching segments. The tape starts out difficult to fatigue the muscles, but gets gradually easier as it goes. It does an excellent job working the inner thighs, quads, and shoulders. Some abdominal and arm exercises are added in a 15-minute "bonus" at the end of the tape.

A word to the wise... the sheer number of squats and lunges in this video could cause problems for those with knee or hip problems. Also, there are not many low-impact options for the jumps.

All in all, this tape is great for those who prefer an athletic, fairly challenging workout.

Minna's Fat Eliminator
This tape is fantastic and I'm a beginner and can do these moves. Plus it gives an added challenge and you don't get bored. This is the first Minna tape I ever bought. She is a wonderful instructor and gives details on muscle groups used, as well as motivation. The first time I used it I couldn't do the entire half hour as a beginner, but I kept at it and if you do it every day or every other day you do the half hour and feel great. I can feel my body tingling as my calories burn away and you work up a sweat. I also like the pretty tape design, so feminine. Oh, and my husband does the tape too!

Buy this tape!
I'm on my latest 'must get in shape now' plan and saw this tape at the library. I figured, it's free, why not check it out.
I couldn't believe how much this tape kicked my butt. But in a good way.
Sure you do a lot of lunges and squats, but Minna always seems to keep you motivated.
Why none of the participants in the video were sweating, is beyond me. I definitely got a great workout and will incorporate this tape into my weekly routine.

It's always worked for me
This is by far my favorite tape. It remains challenging even years after I first purchased it. Two years ago, I bought this tape since I was getting rather soft around the edges and lost 15 pounds in no time flat. This same tape got me past the dreaded freshman 15 as well (that's losing 15 pounds two times on this tape, people). It isn't particularly dancy - just classic fitness - she focuses very much on squats and lunges (so beware those with knee problems, and hello those who tend to gain weight on their behinds like me!). Included is a 15 minute bonus toning workout with some great ab work at the end. The tape will have you firmed up in no time, and somehow manages to target just about every muscle group at some point. Minna is an upbeat and capable instructing, and not in the least bit annoying to go with it. So buy, enjoy, and lose some weight: trust me, this tape works. ... Read more

Description

The years after 50 can be the most rewarding time of your life... IF you stay in shape to enjoy them!Join Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes in this special fitness workout to help you look at feel great! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Worth the money!
If you are over 50 or just in poor physical condition, I'd highly recommend this video. It's divided into two sections: The first section is a low impact routine (and I do mean low!) that just gets everything moving. No complicated dance steps to learn, no jerky motions and no headbanging music. It goes at a very leisurely pace and there is no floorwork. The second section is a toning routine designed to strengthen various muscle groups.

Richard leads a group of senior celebrity parents through the program and each section is about 30 minutes long. The only equipment you need is a kitchen chair for the second section.

Again, if are physically limited but can walk, Richard Simmons Silver Foxes would be my first choice. Nicely done!

The Dead Need Not Apply
If you think this exercise for seniors requires you to be half dead, think again. Simmons takes several "celebrity-parents" seniors through a very low impact workout. You will "move" here to nice mellow music and workout in an attractive setting. The highlight is his encouragement to tone and become flexible during a sit-down regime.

Again, this is a low impact, but if one is conditioned, you can increase the activity. Excellent workout for seniors whether you are beginning or advanced. Take it at your own pace. .....MzRizz

It is the best.
I bought the Silver Foxes back in 1988 and always loved it. I have recommended it to many others also. My husband threw it away totally by mistake. The music, everything is perfect and I enjoy exercising with him as well as his adorable mother, and the famous actors parents. The thing I like so much is I can do it and all the way through. I have never been bored with it. Even when I am traveling I do the arms exercises. I just plain love it! So, I am ordering it today.

Recovery Exercise
I just went through surgery related to breast cancer and "discovered" this videotape. It has been a perfect way to work on my fitness without the jarring associated with many aerobics tapes and the stretches are do-able even with my stitches. I get a safe workout.

One Great Video!!
Had a copy for many years but can't find it, so just ordered another. Am so glad to be able to find it here. Very easy to follow, no matter what shape you are in, and you get a full work out without jumping. Would recommend it to anyone, no matter what your condition or age. If there are parts you can't keep up with just step or swing to the music until you can join in again. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"In the same way that a tree needs to be strong to support its limbs, the goal in Stott Pilates is to develop and maintain core stability as you work towards optimal strength and flexibility," says Moira Stott-Merrithew. Pilates uses the core muscles of the abdominals to develop a strong, streamlined body and help you move with ease and avoid injury. This 28-minute introduction to Stott Pilates is for beginners; instructor Moira Stott-Merrithew introduces you to the principles and techniques, such as breathing, "imprinting," and shoulder stabilization. She then teaches a 20-minute workout consisting of 14 (although the video cover claims 22) exercises in their most basic forms. For example, she teaches "the 100s" by first having you do just the arms, then add the correct breathing, then add the abdominal contraction. Although she explains each exercise patiently, she sometimes performs them quickly, so you may want to pause the video and practice at your own pace. She rarely offers modifications, and some of the exercises demand strength and flexibility even at the beginning level--it might have been helpful to have another demonstrator showing modifications. The production is nice, with clear visuals and soft music. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Introduction to the concepts, not a good workout
I have been practicing pilates at a Stott studio and though I'm a big fan of Stott Pilates, this and there other beginner tapes are disappointing. It's useful if all you want is information on the pilates concepts, but I don't see how anyone can get a good workout from them. The level 2 tapes, and up, are all very good and guarantee a good workout. If you don't know anything about pilates, such as imprinting, neutral spine position, and correct breathing, this is a good tape.

Yoga mat+sweatpants+VCR=a brand new you!
Since I live in NYC, I attend Pilates studio classes with instructors who are accredited through Stott's school. I was tickled to see one of my instructors in these tapes! This is an excellent supplement to core strengthening that is essential to Joseph Pilate's teachings. The review "too little substance" irked me, since he/she missed the entire point of this work. You cannot have core strength without proper breath and support. Posture, standing, even the way you sit will change with this type of exercise. Slow and steady is the way to go for injury prevention. If you want a mindless, sweaty workout (and a possible repetitive stress injury), stay at the gym. You will sweat with this workout, it's proper BREATHING that gets you there. Pilates is for thinking exercisers, not mindless hamsters huffing away on a stair stepper. After 2 knee surgeries, a hip that clicks, and a pinched nerve in my neck (all from dancing, skating, gymnastics and yes, stairmasters), I wouldn't think of returning to my gym. There is no need to keep pounding yourself into a sweaty heap once you change your view of exercise with these tapes. 3 times a week at 20 minutes minimum will give you the look, the feel, and the strength you need. Moira Stott (and her modifications) is a godsend.

Fundamentals are fundamental
This tape is designed for initial exposure to Pilates and its concepts. They must be under your belt in order to advance to the next level of exercises. The reviewer who felt there was too little substance to these exercises MISSED the whole idea of Pilates. If you just want to work out and sweat, Pilates is probably not for you anyway. If you're willing to do the basics and get it under your belt, there is a wealth of information available through Pilates. This tape is designed to do just what it says, and does it well.

Too little substance.
This was my first tape on pilates. It was enough to peek my interest. I definitely am going to buy a more difficult tape. The exercise value on this tape is a joke. It says for beginners and it sure is. There is no way I could change my body with this tape. All it has is an introduction on how to perform about 10 different exercises. I felt a little mislead. I figured a tape for beginners as I am one would give me a workout. This tape is more of an introduction to show you what some exercises look like. Then if you like them you need a different tape. Rent this one; buy a real exercise tape. ... Read more

Description

Buns of Steel instructor Leisa Hart continues to create dynamic programs that are safe, fun and effective to get you the results you deserve! Her warm, approachable personality and impeccable cueing has motivated millions to embrace exercise. As an ACEand AFAA certified instructor with over 19 years fitness industry experience, Leisa specializes in Pre and Postnatal Exercise, Lifestyle & Weight Management, Yoga and Toning.Postnatal exercise will help you:• Bond with your baby • Increase energy levels • Ease emotional highs and lows • Ease back and shoulder pain from delivery • Regain and improve your pre-pregnancy physique • Build strength to carry your new bundle of joy.Busy moms will love these 5 and 10 minute time saving segments. Leisa Hart and the other moms offer intensity variations so that you can start out light and work your way up to a challenge when you’re ready. This innovative method helped Leisa get back in top shape after both her pregnancies. FitMama Postnatal Workout follows the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists ... Read more

Reviews (25)

She did it again!
Leisa Hart did it again! This has been the pick me up I needed after having my daughter. As with her prenatal workout video, this one is great. The moves are so much fun, it's more like dancing than exercising. I started this workout after my 4 week post natal checkup, and within 1 month I was back in my pre-pregnancy clothes. I still use it regiously, and it is still working.
My daughter is almost 4 months old, and I am going to start on one of Leisa's newest Fit to the Core videos....I can't wait!!!
It is a wonderful video for the post natal time, I definitely recommend it.

GREAT VIDEO FOR POST PREGNANCY FITNESS
I thoroughly enjoyed this post pregnancy video. My doctor stayed on me to work out during my pregnancy, which I did with Leisa Hart'f FitMama Prenatal video, which i truly enjoyed, yea, seriously, i liked working out during all those fatty months. I never use to like working out during pregnancy, but i found this video to be perfect for me. Then, I had my baby and I think Leisa is grand...she instructs so professionally. I bought her MBC Yoga videos and love them also. The FitMama Postnatal is very easy to follow and motivating. Hart is a doll, and I love her style. The music was great and the other moms were also inspiring. It was great to also do the FitMama & Me video that has the small children in it, how fun!!! My kiddo was a hoot and I loved doing this in the privacy of my home. I loved it!

great postnatal programming
This is a grea postnatal program. I felt very comfortable doing the moves and my body responded very well, especially after doing the FITMAMA PRENATAL video for my entire pregnancy. I read great reviews of both videos and really loved them, they helped me stay strong and focused. Th FITMAMA POSTNATAL has allowed me to get back into biking shape, and I can enjoy the outdoors and wear some sexy clothing once again, now that i am a Fitmama!!!

this workout quickly got me back into shape
i loved doing this workout right after having my baby...as soon as my doctor said i could work out, i popped in this video and quickly found myself dancing to the music and toning up. hart is a great motivator, and she looked great fater having her baby. I love all of her videos and am a new fan, and i bet a life long because her style is better than anyone i have ever tried....i highly suggest you get this vidoe before delivery if you can, otherwise, get it shortly afterwards and get fit...mama!!!

awesome time saving post-prego workout
i don't have time to do 45 or 60 minutes of exercise with my newborn, and that's why i LOVE this Fitmama Postnatal workout. If i can only do 10 minutes, i opo this in and feel refreshed. If i can do two or three segments, i feel my body is benefitting from the exercise. I don't feel intimidated by this workout, its definitely designed by a new mom for a new mom...this is GREAT! ... Read more

Video Description

Richard Simmons is at it again, with this "20-Minute Energizing Workout" video. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

EXCELLENT- Quick and Effective
This is a great video if you want quick and specific toning. I have had many exercise videos but this is one of the 3 that I have continued to use over the past 10 years. There are 3 different 15-minute workouts. Though not super strenuous, when I did this workout 3-4 times a week, for 6 weeks I could actually see muscle formation like I never have before.

seems to be not enough exercise!
I wish someone could actually make a workout tape that has a full upper body workout.
People seem to forget that "upper body" is the shoulders, arms, upper back, and chest.
And unluckily this tape doesn't do it either.
Like it says on the title "Arms" and "abs" only.
there are 3 workouts, and each is 15mins long, but take away the warm up and cool down and its only 9-10mins of actual exercises, which for arms AND abs isn't really enough to make a difference.

Three short, effective workouts for arms and abs.
This tape is broken into three separate 15 minute sections, each containing its own brief warm up, arms and abs work, and cool-down. The exercises are appropriate for beginners or intermediates (using heavier weights), and they're especially well-suited to anyone who has only a short amount of time to do some basic strength training. Tamilee is one of my favorite instructors; she provides excellent cuing and is a chatty, motivating workout buddy. I especially recommend this workout to beginners.

I was disappointed with the intensity of the workout.
I've been using the first abs of steel video for several years (3/4 times per week) and I still feel tired towards the end of the session. This video was a piece of cake (not good) and I didn't like how the video was done...watching Tami on a TV inside of a TV....very distracting! I'm disappointed

This tape is great for busy working women
Tamilee is very thoughtful in making a video collection that is ideal for busy women. It is better to exercise for a few minutes everyday than none at all. I am already seeing improvement in my arms and abs. I am very glad she included warm-up and stretch. I have her older videos and I found it very inconvenient that she didn't include warm-up and stretch for all three sets of exercises. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The days when a Workout was a Workout!
The 90-minute tape was initially designed for dancers, athletes and those with extensive exercise experience.Here, every inch of the body is put through a vigorous set.

ARM Workout:Begin with a thorough stretch, then six minutes of ARM workout, you can feel the shoulders burn. Six minutes never seemed so long.

The 20-minute AEROBIC section is excellent! During the aerobic section, she works out with two fit young men; the aerobic section is very high impact and deeply intense. While moving constantly, Jane provides easy steps, the cues are sufficient.

What is rarely included in any of today's workouts is a BALANCE section. Stand on one leg, raise it up and sway. This legwork is not easy and runs the length of about eight minutes.

The WAIST SECTION: Again, I have used many videotape programs for exercise, but rarely have I done a specific waist workout. It is indeed strenuous. Another eight minutes long. Eight minutes doesn't sound like a long time, but when you physically challenge your waistline to a grueling workout, it is a long time.

The last half-hour is the floor work starts with STOMACH CRUNCHES. This is probably the most difficult because she does what I know I can't do! For the average person who engages in a regular exercise program, if you can accomplish exactly what she does, I applaud you.

She proceeds to work on the LEGS. Simple leg work and inner thigh work consists of about 200 movements for one leg, then double that for both legs. You will move those legs up and down 400 times. Add another 200 moves for ROVERS (floor work on all fours, lifting leg up and out.)

The GLUTS (Butt work) is just over four minutes. She strains the gluts for approximately 200 times.

I will always come back to this this workout, just to show myself I can do it! Undoubtedly, the most challenging workout ever......MzRizz
... Read more

Reviews (26)

Good overall strengthening workout
I really enjoyed the Pilates for Dummies with Michelle Dozias, so I thought I'd try this one next. I got involved in Pilates as part of my effort to tone my midsection, but found I wished for a more "overall" body toning workout. Breakthru Pilates Plus definitely delivered on that! After a good session with this DVD I am sore from my calves all the way to my shoulders.

The Pilates section is good, but I still prefer the Dummies workout in some ways. I think the Pilates portion could be longer. I practiced ballet for about 20 years and also have modern dance experience, so I especially like the ballet portion of the workout. Michelle has incredible form and really looks like a trained dancer. I really feel the work in my calves and thighs. I am not a fan of yoga as I have found it very stressful on my joints, but I mostly enjoy the yoga portion. It is a good way to end the workout since it stretches a lot of your major muscles well. I wish they had made the Pilates section longer and the yoga section shorter--but that may just be me!

Pluses: Great overall body workout; lots of variety; Michelle is an excellent instructor and Tracy is OK; definitely a workout with "room to grow"

Minuses: Hard to do workout and watch the DVD at the same time; a bit hard to do ballet portion on carpet

Recommended with four stars

Great variety of exercise methods!
Breakthru Pilates Plus is a wonderful mix of several different exercise methods, with Pilates being only part of the workout. The entire video is about 46 minutes long, and it's broken up into four sections as follows:

Section 1: Michelle Dozios leads this stretching segment, which consists mainly of yoga-type stretches, including some sun salutation variations. About 8 minutes.

Section 2: Tracy York begins this segment, which focuses on Pilates. The exercises performed here clearly are rooted in Pilates, yet they are modified from traditional Pilates matwork. Some of moves are deceptively simple (e.g., leaning back to engage your abs and then punching to each side), but I could really feel the work in my abdominal area. Following the lying abs work, you roll onto your side for some additional unique abs moves as well as Pilates side kick type moves. A really challenging series containing plank moves combined with push-ups comes next; you will also do "decellerated push-ups," a slower moving tricep pushup. Michelle takes over to repeat the exercises on the other side as well as to do a second pushup series. At 17 minutes, this is the longest section of the workout.

Section 3: This is the ballet-inspired section led by Michelle. Using a chair for ballance, you will do simple plies, leg raises, and leg kicks, first on one side and then repeating on the other side. These exercises were definitely tougher than they looked, and I found it difficult to emulate Michelle and Tracy's perfect form. This section lasted about 12 minutes.

Section 4: This was the yoga segment, and it consisted of about 8 minutes of standing yoga poses, including warrior, side angle, chair, and standing forward bends. Tracy leds this section, and she provides good instructions on alignment. The workout ends rather abruptly with a very brief stretch at the end of this segment.

I really enjoyed this workout; the wide variety combined with the segmented format to hold my interest, and because of this, I know that I won't easily tire of this video. Michelle and Tracy were both good instructors who provided good cuing, and for many of the exercises, one of them shows a modified version. They occasionally chatted back and forth, but not to the point of being annoying or disrupting the flow of the routine. This is a perfect workout for intermediate exercises like myself who enjoy doing a wide variety of methods in a relatively short period of time.

Very dependable
I've been using this workout for about two months - normally on my cardio "off days". It is a very challenging workout, but it's almost as if you don't notice how hard you are working because the program flows so well. It has become my favorite workout and I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for something a little different. It's a great early morning workout - it's challenging without being too overwhelming.

I Loved It!
Some portions were intense like the yoga push ups. But other than that, I enjoyed the routines immensely. I have Core Conditioning by the pair and found that the routine which was primarily pilates based, put too much pressure on my neck.

The variety in this workout is more versatile. In my opinion, if you've never done ballet, they make the movements easy. I enjoy the tape and will log on to their website to check out the tape that incorporates weight training.

Best Thing I've Found!
I have not worked out in almost ten years. In fact, I don't get much exercise at all, I have a desk job and walking to and from the car has been about it. Fortunately, I'm blessed with "thin" genes. But, I have a lot of body pain, joint stiffness...and very high cholesterol. My doctor said to start moving, didn't matter what it was, just MOVE! I don't like to walk or do aerobics, so on the way home from my labwork, I stopped at our library to try out a tape and there was Breakthu Pilates Plus. What a find! I love this tape! While in the beginning I could not get through the whole thing at once, I did like that I could do just part and not feel like I stopped in the middle of something. Also, the girls continually coach through the whole tape to find the place that feels right for you. I didn't feel pushed to keep up like some of the program's I've ~watched~ on tv. I now own the dvd and it's the best money I've ever spent on myself!

Each morning, I get up and at least do the ballet session, it really gets my energy level up. If I have time, I do the rest of the program. At night I do the yoga and it really helps me relax and sleep better.

This tape has been the best find for me. My body pains and aches are less and less each day, my cholesterol is coming down and I feel good. It is something I look forward to doing each day, I don't dread doing the exercises! Tracy and Michelle seem like they are two good friends in my living room, helping me through this workout. I highly recommend this program!

Thanks, Tracy and Michelle! ... Read more

Description

    Discover how yoga infused Pilates can keep you in shape during and after your pregnancy.   Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates for Pregnancy is the first Pilates based workout designed to give pregnant women a challenging workout, without compromising safety.

      When Jennifer Gianni became pregnant with her first child, she realized how little information was available on how to stay in shape, while taking every precaution to insure the safety of her baby and a healthy pregnancy.

      Experienced Pilates instructor, Jennifer Gianni, credits Pilates for a quick bounce back after her first and second babies.   Fusion Pilates is the result of her in-depth research into what constitutes a safe and effective workout for the pregnant woman. The workout follows all guidelines from The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

      This unique workout includes modifications that are appropriate for each trimester.   Pregnant woman of all fitness levels will be challenged and motivated by this inspiring workout.

      Jennifer Gianni has over 13 years of experience in the mind/body field including Dance, Pilates, Yoga, Weight Training & Gyrotonic. ... Read more

Description

Forearms, biceps, triceps, shoulders, chest - all these muscle groups are included in TaeBo’s Ultimate Upper Body. This workout targets each individual muscle, with a variety of different workouts. The video is geared to tone and tighten the complete upper body with an all-in-one workout, so there’s no need for anything else. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Tae Bo Ultimate Upperbody
I love this tape as much as the others. This is a great one for those days when you don't have the time for a strength training routine. It has it all built in, you use your own resistance, but still get a great workout, combine this workout with the others and you will have a great total body workout. I do this tape about 3 times a week, it is a complilation of several great videos. If you are a Tae Bo video collector, you will have to have these. I have every Tae Bo video made, and I love them. This is a must have for anyone new to Tae Bo, you are gonna work but you are also gonna have a great time. And before you know it your gonna look great in no time at all. Enjoy!!! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A GREAT & EFFECTIVE, EASY TO FOLLOW WORKOUT!!!
After purchasing several other workout videos, I happened to stumble acrossed Leslie's Walk Away The Pounds Express 2 Mile video. I had never heard of her and was skeptical, but decided to try it out. Wow...what a surprise! It was EXACTLY what I had been searching for! Leslie's program is very effective and yet it couldn't be easier to follow. There is no fancy footwork or frustrating moves to learn...it's soooo easy! The music is very motivating and fun. The workout incorporates both upper and lower body and is a great cardio workout and fat burner. I do this tape 5 days a week and have not yet grown bored with it. I will definitely be buying more of Leslie's tapes!

Duplicate Walk
Do not buy this video if you already have the "Express" videos. Because it was being marketed as a "new release" for September 2003, I ordered it thinking I would be getting a completely new 2 mile video. It is IDENTICAL to the first BRISK WALK 2 MILE video in the EXPRESS series. The only difference is the video box and the "as seen on tv" logo. I am not happy that I wasted my money. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

It's Good.
I have been using Leslie's Walk Away the Pounds Express II 4 mile walk tape (which I really have enjoyed) and was looking for something new when I discovered this tape. I think Leslie's queing has really improved. She still talks almost non-stop, but it's not as annoying as some of her other tapes. I used 2 lb weights (read too many stories about the belt not holding up well, so didn't get it) and really could feel this.

Collage Video catalogue rates this tape as intermediate. I have been exercising regularly for the last 3 years, and I have to say that this tape had me breathing hard by the end. A couple of the "regulars" who appear in almost all her tapes mentioned that it was "tough" for them too!

The music is good and loud enough to hear, unlike some of her previous tapes. Only she does tend to use the same songs over and over on her various tapes. There's at least one song on this one that is on her 2 Mile and 4 Mile Walk Off Weight Vol 2 and Vol 3 series. That's a little irritating.

It's fast paced and before you know it, you're done. It's a keeper.

Very good workout !!
I find this tape to be a very good upper body workout. While first using it, I found my arms really getting tired and feeling the "burn" --but after several weeks it is quite easy. Generally I do the 3 mile walking tape and then this 3 miles for abs tape--really a good fat burner.

Great Video to work up to!
I bought this video as a set with the ab belt that goes with it. You could just at easy use weights instead of the belt. It might even be better b/c you have to tuck in the handles of the belt often.

I like the video best of all three. If you know Leslie, she tends to talk a bit much at times. But it's not as bad in this video. But anyone's chatter will get annoying when you listen to it over and over. That's why it's good to have more than one video so you have variety. It also helps you stick to it better.

Even when I only want to do a mile or two I usually pick this video and then fast forward to the cool down when I'm ready. You really feel this workout. It's one that you have to work up to. The first time I tried it I couldn't get through it. And this was after about 3 weeks of doing the 1 and 2 mile with no problem.

I am blessed with coordination, but you really don't have to have much to do any of her workout videos. If you can raise your hand and kick your leg at the same time you can do a Leslie Sansone video. I wouldn't start with the 3 mile first but you should have no problem getting to it. If you don't have this tape and want more of a challange than the 2 mile this will help you. It does repeat a lot of the moves she uses in ever other tape, but it works so why change it?

I ended up losing 10 pounds in 6 weeks without changing my eating habits (I eat my fair share of carbs!). I also lost 2 1/2 inces off my waist and some off my arms and legs. My hubby commented on how much difference he saw! ... Read more

Description

Transform your triceps and biceps into Arms Of Steel! Every move in this program is designed to strengthen and reshape the contours of your arms, shoulders, forearms, even the upper back. Year: 1994 Starring:Gilad Janklowicz ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great for men & women, beginner to advanced.
After knee surgery, I was unable to do my cardio aerobic tapes. I had always thought strength training to be boring, but in a wheelchair, I had few options. I started doing Arms of Steel with my husband and got hooked! It really works, and the time goes by very quickly.

Super Workout & Gilad is DREAMY!!
I love this workout. Simply put: great pacing, perfect cueing, challenging exercises, wonderful results. I'm a chick, too -- I can follow along fine, and just stick w/ the lighter weights when he moves up to the twenty pounders.

Gilad rocks -- you'll see. He's very encouraging, and the way he counts down while sneaking in tips on proper form/alignment helps the time fly during reps. Also, it cracks me up when, after the brief warmup, he looks into the camera & says, "OK, men, now it's time to work on our arms of steel!" with this cute little nod of his head....

Oh dear, I'm afraid I'm losing my objectivity, here. Regardless, this is a GREAT arms, chest, shoulders workout. Not so much for building mass, as one reviewer pointed out, but you will get some nice definition before you know it. Money well spent, indeed!

Gilad rules!
Gilad motivates me and this workout continues to challenge you--just add more weights! For men and women alike! We do it together with my husband and we like that pumped up feeling afterwards. So pump it up with Gilad!

Excellent Workout!
I used this workout and after a month I saw great results. I did not gain mass, but I got great cuts. Gilad is great a motivating and not letting you put the weights down. You'll definately feel the burn.

I can't argue with the previous reviews
I can't argue. This is a tough, fast workout. I've been doing this video 3 times a week for 3 months now and can see a major difference in my arms. When you get to the point you're able to keep up with Gilad, it's time to up your weights. With that in mind this video will always be a challenge. Also, the video itself is well done, good sound quality and camera angles. I especially like when you can't see the screen, Gilad counts and gives instruction out loud so you can still keep pace. When I'm finished I'm covered in sweat and my arms are spaghetti. It's a great workout! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great variety of ab work
I would actually probably give this video 4 1/2 stars because I don't always feel the burn. Maybe my abs are stronger than I realize, I don't know. I love the variety of these workouts. It's more interesting than doing traditional crunches over and over. I love the work on the obliques. (Maybe soon I'll get rid of these pizza-induced love handles! :) ) Julie is a great instructor and gives good cues. All in all a f-AB-ulous workout for the abs! :)

I love it!
Right off the bat doing the first workout I could tell it was working my abs. The second I couldn't "feel the burn" but that's probably a good thing. Just because you don't feel the burn, and don't feel it the next day doesn't mean the workout is doing nothing. Working consistently will get results with or without feeling it burn.
As for the moves being slow, that's what makes them harder! The slower you do each move, the longer you're using your muscles for each repetition which is a GOOD thing.
I really like the instructor, and the fact that the workouts are only 10 minutes. I felt a difference after just the first workout!

Don't bother - if you're looking for a great ab workout
I just received the video and couldn't wait to feel my abs burning. What a disappointment! Although the instructor explained each move slowly, when you actually got into it, it seemed to go to slow and not make you feel the burn as in other Ab videos. I would recommend this only if you are a beginner and never worked your abs before. Abs of Steel videos are much more intense and you feel the burn!

Perfect Quick Fix
I think this video is great. At 10 minutes each it is really easy to squeeze one, two, or even all three workouts into my day. The variety of exercises is great and the clock is great too. I have been able to consistently do this video because it is quick and fun, and I noticed a difference in about 2 weeks, doing it every other day. It's great!

I absolutely love this video!!
I am fourteen and really enjoy this video. I like the instructor because she is not boring to listen to and she isn't toooo "peppy" but is still enthusiastic. There are many fun moves where I feel the burn a lot. It is very easy to follow...I was able to do the whole video the first time. I absolutely love this video...I have done it every day after school for about 2 weeks and I am beginning to see a difference! This is one great ab workout video! ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Super Callanetics
I have done every kind of workout for years and this is the only one that truly sculps the body. I am now 50 and have not done these tapes for about 5 years, but am going to go back to them knowing that they will work. The other great thing about this workout is that it is gentle and includes the most stretching of any video I have ever tried. If you did this into your 80's, you would still be in great shape!! I am surprised that the whole world hasn't caught on to this!!

always amazed
I have done this workout on and off for many years. I alternate it with another great workout based on the same principal. (chicometrics) It never ceases to amazed me at how effective it is!!!

slow, controlled, relaxing and each time as difficult and effective as the first. Although the tape looks hokey now, it is very relaxing and above all...yes you do see and feel results the very first time that you do it, or for that matter any of the Callanetics workouts. You will get lean, rock hard muscles in your legs and buns and abs.

This tape is difficult. It is truly advanced. So if you have never done Callanetics before it would be a good idea to try the beginner or regular version.

Callanetics does not provide much for the upper body but what it does for the rest is almost unbelievable. I can never understand why it has not become more popluar since it is one of the few workouts out there that really deliver what they promise. And more! As a nice bonus your posture will improve, you will notice a difference in your neck and face and you only have to do it once or twice a week!

Super Callanetics is wonderful!
This tape is very advanced (so start with AM/PM or the original tape). However, you will get the best butt of your life! I haven't lost weight but the inch loss is impressive! Augment results with diet and aerobics and you could look phenomenal. For me the results have been mostly leg/buns but others swear their abs have miraculously improved as well. Try it - it's worth it! Get a used copy NOW!

Agonizing, but worth it!
I have to admit, I've got sort of a love/hate relationship with "Super Callanetics." Let me explain why:

1. It lacks the fun, friendly atmosphere of Callan Pinckney's first video "Callanetics."

2. She goes so fast from one exercise to the next that there's barely enough time to position yourself. (Keep that remote handy, folks!)

3. It's so advanced I have to modify almost every single exercise just to keep from killing myself.

4. In spite of all the above, IT WORKS!

It really does. You may not believe this, but after using this tape only 3 times, I can already see a pronounced difference in my body, especially where the thighs and bum are concerned. Heck, if this keeps up, I can't wait to see what happens after 10 or 20 sessions!

One thing I learned from doing Callan's first video is you've GOT to relax your body from the inside out, especially your knees and your lower back. I never thought I'd be doing "The Pelvic Rotations" and "The Pelvic Scoop" due to my own crummy knees, but I gradually learned to let go and slowly built my strength up. Just don't force anything. With these tiny, pulsating movements, followed by intense stretches, your muscles are working more deeply than you realize. (Think Lotte Berk method, only better.)

Overall, I have to give this tape a resounding two thumbs up. If you do "Super Callanetics" just twice a week, in between aerobic conditioning, you'll have a better body than you've ever had in your life.

wonderful exercise routine
I have been doing Callanetics for over 10 years. This is a routine that does exactly what it says it will do. It shapes your body beautifully. Really hard to believe. I am 68 years old now and am still exercising with this tape or Callanetics AM PM three times each week. On the week-ends I jog for heart and lungs, but nothing shapes your body like Callanetics. So much you buy doesn't live up to its promises, but this tape does. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Fabulous and Fun
I love this tape. I recently tried a non-Firm tape that advertised easy to follow ballroom dance steps - and I was totally lost. This didn't happen with The Hare. The steps are indeed easy to follow - the combinations aren't difficult at all - and I always feel like I've gotten a thorough workout without the total exhaustion I get from some of the other videos. Highly recommended!

The Hare Cross Trainer
Great workout for a person like me who gets bored easily. Trainer explains what to do as you work out and it flows nicely with different types of steps.. You work out each side of your body evenly with the repetitions.

Excellent work-out with ballroom music.
For those of you new to the FIRM workouts I start out by saying it is hard to go wrong with a FIRM tape. These tapes are for serious exercisers and deliver the results they promise.

This particular work-out is one of the later work-outs in the FIRM series. It is part of a cross-trainer set and is best used in conjunction with the TORTOISE workout. These are meant to complement each other - the Hare emphasises fast moves with light weights and the Tortoise emphasises slow moves with heavy weights (Women - don't worry, you WON'T bulk up doing any of these, you will just gain beautiful muscle definition and a toned look). The Tortoise and Hare are designed to be done on alternate days to give your body maximal cardio and strength benefits. But they are excellent work-outs on their own as well.

The Hare, being one of the later tapes has great cueing from Tracy long and very safe moves. The work-out is about an hour long and is done to an unusual choice of ball-room music in the background. You will exercise to a tango, cha cha and others. This is NOT a tape for learning these dances. The music is just for different variety from the usual jazzy music found on work-out tapes. If you do not like classic ballroom music, this tape may not be the best for you - although it is still a great work-out. You may want to try the FIRM Cardio and Strength cross trainers instead.

You will need some equipement for this work-out. A set of dumbells (it is good to have at least 2 sets - 3 and 5 pounds for beginning women) and two step boxes (or one with an adjustable height). The heights that work best for the step boxes are 4 inches for the short one and 10-14 inches for the tall box. Once you have the necessary equipment you are ready to go.

Tracy is a great instructor and the moves are not hard to follow. After the first couple of times you will be able to do them effortlessly and have lots of fun. You will work your entire body in the hour and also maintain a good heart rate for cardio.

This work-out can be quite tough and is good enough for intermediate to advanced exercisers. It is however also a GREAT work-out for beginners who want to get more serious about their fitness level and want to advance. Beginners can do this workout without weights and pausing and resting as needed. They will quickly advance to the next level, and the results will be much better than those you will see from typical "beginners" work-outs. This tape is easier to do than the classic FIRMS (volume 1 through 6) and is therefore a better choice for beginners who want to advance to "serious FIRMS".

All in all, I would rate this work-out a perfect ten. Very well researched, brilliantly executed - a classic. But note that you may not like it if you hate ballroom music, if you dislike "serious" instructors who are not enthusiastic balls of energy but rather calm and professional, or if you simply faint at the idea of exercising for a full hour.

For serious results though, this is an excellent choice.

One of the FIRM's best
I've tried most of the firm workouts and find this one to be oen of, if not, the best. It's upbeat and entertaining. I never watch the clock while doing this workout. Instructor Tracy Long is an encouraging leader and has a pleasant voice on top of that. Over all, one of the best firm videos out there! You CANNOT go wrong with this tape!

Another GREAT Firm Tape!
I really enjoy this video. I own about 20 Firm tapes, and I find myself reaching for this one again and again. I really have fun doing the ballroom aerobics, and I when I am done, I feel GREAT! I think you would not be disapointed with this tape. ... Read more