Reviews (64)

GREAT! VERY SIMILAR TO TAE BO BUT BETTER!
I am a teenager who is very active and in good shape, but after doing both workouts I did work up a good sweat. Denise Austin is much more encouraging in her videos than Billy Blanks, and has put together a better/less expensive video that offers a variety so that beginners and advanced can benefit. The only problem I have is that the length of the tape is shorter than Id hope-the workouts themselves are actually a little less than twenty minutes because of stretching and cool downs, but if you do both in sequence, the workout you obtain is a reasonable 35 minutes ( meaning 35 minutes that your heart rate is up). If you already own Tae Bo Basics, I wouldnt suggest purchasing this tape because many of the moves are almost identical to Billy Blanks....but I definately think that this tape is better and more effective-so if you are making the choice between the two, Id choose this one.

Is this the missing Intermediate Tae-Bo tape?
I am a fitness video junkie so I have lots of tapes, even several kickboxing tapes that you would think would be all the same, but they aren't. Although I find Denise Austin kind of annoying, I own a lot of her tapes because she does give me a good workout. When I bought this tape I also bought Tae-bo Basic and Tae-bo Advanced. While I enjoy Tae-bo Basic, and it really works my muscles, I feel that Power Kickboxing gives me a better aerobic workout. There are two workouts on this tape. I thought the first one, which is called "Skills" would be very easy since I did Tae-bo several weeks before I started this. Boy, was I surprise to discover it wasn't really that easy and it worked my body in a completely different way. After I got good at both "Skills" and Tae-bo Basic I decided to move up to the next level. I did Tae-bo Advanced first. There is a HUGE jump in skill levels between the basic and advanced tape. I couldn't keep up at all and actually twisted my knee. After I recovered, I went back to Denise and tried "Drills." This was just perfect for me. It was just hard enough that I felt challenged, but I could still get through it. So, while I still enjoy Tae-Bo Basic and consider it a good toning and sculping workout, I prefer Power Kickboxing for it's challenging but do-able aerobic effects. And you get used to all that perkiness eventually.

Typical Denise--annoying, but a great workout
I bought this after I had been working out 4-5 times a week for about 6 months. I had a 6-month old baby and needed something quick and effective. I have done Denise's videos for about 10 years now, and she hasn't changed. She is one of the most annoying people ever, and if I met her in person, I wouldn't know whether to hug her or punch her, due to her incessant babbling and ridiculous phrases "Burn that Butter!!!"
But as usual, she delivers a great workout--upbeat, no wasted time. People who are looking for a serious kickboxing tutorial should probably look elsewhere, but if you just want an intense, quick, cardio workout with a bit of toning, this is the tape.

Be aware, though, that it was next to impossible for me to do this in front of my husband--he couldn't stop laughing at Denise's silly chatter. You will need to do this when you're alone unless you want to be distracted--anyone hearing this tape without working out to it will be annoyed.

Not for beginners
This is a good workout, but make sure you are in actual shape before you buy this one!

A great workout in twenty minutes!
Trying to squeeze in that workout? It's hard to do so that's why I love this tape! You get a fantastic workout in just twenty minutes. It's really challenging and you'll feel like you worked hard in a short amount of time. It's perfect when your short on time but still want to do a really strong workout. I've had this tape for about two years now and I still use it. The tape has two twenty minute segments, so after you've mastered the first you can move on to the second. But I still do the first segment because it's such a fantastic workout! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Maintaining your current fitness level is the goal in this upbeat pregnancy workout from the Buns of Steel series. Fitness expert Madeline Lewis (in her third trimester, no less) smiles and chatters her way through a 45-minute low-impact routine. But low-impact, quite obviously, is not Ms. Lewis's typical style. This high-energy workout should appeal to anyone who enjoys the quick-paced repetition of basic or step aerobics. Following a 10-minute warm-up, traditional moves such as the grapevine, heel tap, and V-step get the legs in motion while the arms attempt to keep up with busy choreography. Fifteen minutes of aerobic activity is followed by about 10 minutes of toning; a modest but effective amount of tucks, squats, and bun-burning exercises is included. Unlike The Kathy Smith Pregnancy Workout--an excellent and comprehensive if slightly tamer routine--Buns will make you break a sweat. Heart rate and "perceived exertion" checks help you determine when to slow down. --Liane Thomas ... Read more

Reviews (65)

My easiest delivery yet!
I recently gave birth to my third child. Although I remained active during my other two pregnancies, mainly by following a daily walking routine, this last pregnancy was the first time I actually worked out. I began using this video during my seventh month. I would alternate between several different pregnancy workout videos, inlcuding Kathy Smith's, Denise Austin's and an old one sanctioned by Dr. Art Ulene. Buns of Steel was certainly the most interesting and engaging workout video I found. Best yet, my delivery was by far the easiest and least complicated one I had ever experienced. I am completely convinced that the focus on strenghtening the pelvic floor muscles is the reason why I only pushed for 10 minutes, as opposed to the 2+ hours push-a-thons I experienced with my other two children! Plus, I recovered much more quickly this time around, and I know it is because I worked-out to this video every other day during my third trimester.

I think this video is wonderful, as I do the Buns of Steel post-pregnancy workout video I am currently following. I would strongly recommend it to any pregnant woman who is looking for a fun, relatively easy way to get into shape!

This is a video you need to get!
I really wanted to stay in shape during pregnancy and also wanted to get my shape back quickly, so I started exercising with this video in my second month of pregnancy. I exercised regularly, doing the video about 3-5 times a week, until I gave birth. My pregnancy went very smoothly and I felt great throughout. As soon as I gave birth (to a beautiful 8 lb. 12 oz. little boy) my stomach retracted very quickly. People constantly made, and continue to make comments to me, about how great I look--"didn't even look like I just had a baby." I could tell my body was quite toned as a result of doing all those ab and bun exercises. I am now doing the Buns of Steel Post Pregnancy Workout and am extremely pleased with the results. I cannot recommend these videos highly enough. If you really want to feel good during your pregnancy and regain your shape (for me, my shape is even better!) quickly after you have your baby, these videos are for you!

Good Product.
Not too tough, but does the trick. Good for 2nd and 3rd trimester. Too easy for 1st trimester.

A good basic pregancy workout video
I would agree with many of the reviewers that this is not quite as good as Kathy Smith's pregnancy workout. However, it does provide a good basic pregnancy workout. It contains a warm up, followed by 3 aerobic songs, then a pretty good leg section (better than Kathy's) followed by some abdominal strengthening and a cool down. I worked out a lot before pregnancy and even though this may not be as challenging as I would like, I do it a couple of times a week for a change. It does energise and tone and keeps you feeling healthy and fit during pregnancy.

Just OK
The moves can get to be pretty confusing & are just not challenging enough. Kathy Smith's is better. Also, the instructor has a very irritating rat-like voice that gives me the willies. She bugs too when she kept saying "double check time!" Ugh...overall it's ok but there are better ones out there. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

AWESOME WORKOUT!!!!
I have recently gotten engaged and like many brides want to loose weight and become more tone. I have gone to the gym for several years and have also tried other videos. I feel Crunch - Cardio Sculpt is absolute terrific and is the BEST way to accomplish my goal. Violet, the instructor is fabulous. She is energetic; extremely knowledgeable, and a wonderful motivator. The workout is low impact, which tones every part of your body in just 30 minutes. I also work full time and attend graduate school part time. With my busy schedule, this workout fits perfectly into my schedule. I highly recommend it. You will feel great and notice a difference within days!!

Challenging Change of Pace....
If you have been working out for a while and are ready for a change of pace "Crunch Cardio Sculpt" will challenge you. I found this work out just right for those wanting to move from beginning or introductory workouts to something more efficient. It may take several times before you get all the moves down or maybe even a few times before you get through the entire tape, but that is part of the challenge and also makes it fun(I had to laugh at myself trying to keep up with all the changes).It is always a good idea though to view a new workout at least once before attempting, so you have an idea of what's coming up.

Instructor Violet Zaki takes you first through a great warm up that will begin to increase your heart rate and get that blood pumping. Once that heart rate is up,the fat burning and muscles toning segments begin. Working on and off with weights, she'll take you through a fitness routine that will hit every part of your body. Shoulders, chest, back, legs, arms, buttocks and abs all get some attention. You can start with one light set of weights and work up to two sets(switching off), up to ten pounds for a more advanced challenge. With or without the weights, you'll be constantly moving and surprising those muscles. Lastly a terrific cool down and stretch segment to bring your heart rate back down and lengthen out those muscles. This part could have been just a little longer for me, but I continue to stretch during the end credits.(Total workout time was about 34 minutes)

Although, the class moves quickly, and as I said it may take a while to get all the moves down, Violet is an excellent motivator and cues well.There is even one person in the class you can follow if you need to modify any of the moves. It's always nice to add a change of pace when you're ready.This is a good head to toe workout that used regulary,should give you some nice results. For more specific areas, mix it up with weight training, power yoga or a Pilates workout a couple of times a week. I like "Quick Fix Pilate Abs", for a little extra help in that area.

The price is right to give this one a try. My only little complaint would be that there wasn't anyone in the class who looked to be over 25. "Crunch" people.....it would be much more encouraging to us aging boomers to add a couple of older people to these classes(at least over 30), we can do it!. But a 5 star workout out none the less.

Remember to breathe, eat healthy, and enjoy......Laurie

Not as expected!
Having read the reviews on the Amazon sight, and having never purchased a Crunch video before, I was really looking forward to doing this workout. However, I must say I was slightly disappointed. Having done the workout I am still not convinced that you can effectively work all the major msucle groups in just 30 minutes. The instructor moved from one segment to another quickly, and I didn't feel that each muscle group had been worked effectively. She just seemd to touch on each group of exercises,and just as you got the hang of the sequence it was over! If you don't want to build up your thigh muscles then don't get this video as alot of the standing work is based on lunges.
If this video was just 15 minutes longer I think it would have been more effective. Yes, I realise we all want a workout that we can fit into our day, and that doesn't take huge amounts of our time, but I'm not convinced this 30 minutes will produce the effective results it claims.
I also thought the constant changing from light to heavier weights was slightly unnecessary (based on the exercises the weights were being used for).

In my mind, if you want an effective video that really works your muscle groups in as little time as possible, I have still not found anything better than Karen Voights fitness videos. When you have finished working out with her 30-45 minutes videos, you really feel as though you have worked your body. Unfortunately I did not feel that with this video.

excellent workout
this is my favorite cardio/sculpting workout. the exercises are fun & effective, violet is a great instructor & knows her stuff. the time goes by really quickly. i would recommend this dvd to anyone who wants to sculpt & tone.

GREAT workout FUN!!!
I love this tape! The workout is so much fun that the time just flies by. I am not a fitness fanatic but I do like to workout at home with tapes and this is my favorite. The instructor is GREAT, the moves are not so repetitive that you get bored AND it is a thorough total body workout complete with ab work and a cool down.
I highly recommend this tape. So far I love all of the Crunch tapes I have purchased (Fat Blasting Yoga, Fat Blasting Pilates and Fat Blaster goes Latin) but this is definitely my favorite. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Cher scores a win again
I love this video! The Hot Dance really gets the heart pumping and the body sweating! Dorian Sanchez is a wonderful and fun instructor. I still have fun with this workout, and I've been doing it off and on for ten years! I am not very coordinated when it comes to dancing, but I find the moves easy to follow and fun to do. It is tough to do in a small space, but I would strongly recommend this aerobic workout if you want fun and effective.

The second section in done with resistance bands and is also very good. Personally I'm not crazy about the bands, but I'm sure you could do most of it just as well with hand weights. I don't do this workout as often as the first, but it is good also.

CHER ROCKS! :)

CHER is awesome!!!
I just started the workout, but I LOVE it. I ususally Jazzercise and do strength training, but this video still makes me sweat. I liked Cher's um..... workout wear. It definately gives you something to strive for and look at while you are working out!!! I would reccomend this video to anyone who wants to feel like a dancer, and burn some fat. The strength training is hard, but well worth the results.

Buy it today.....!!!!!!!!!
This video will get you going and keep you going. Its fun and the routine never gets old. Learning the steps may take a couple of weeks - but once you know them, you never forget them. Cher has some of the best fitness experts in her videos. I've been doing this video since high school and that was 8 years ago. I have to buy a new one every few years b/c mine get worn out.

Love it
I have had this tape for over 10 years and although I don't use it all the time, I always go back to it. Sure, it can be a little repetitive, but if you just listen to the music (which I love and is NOT outdated - it's classic) and just let your body move it will be worth all the while. I am an excercise buff, I am in good shape, and after 10 years, I still have sweat pouring off of me after I complete this workout. This review is just for the Hot Dance segment. I was not too crazy about the bands. Oh yeah, another reviewer mentioned what Cher was wearing. Who cares!! That is just Cher. She has ALWAYS been like that and always will be. More power to her!

Recommended
This workout is divided into two sections: the first is a 38 minute fat-burning aerobic dance workout and the second is a gruelling all-over body workout using resistance bands.

The "Hot Dance" workout is led by top choreographer, Doriana Sanchez. Sanchez has choreographed Cher's stage shows and videos; was one of the dancers in the Patrick Swayze film, Dirty Dancing; choreographed the live Dirty Dancing shows; Copacabana and many other popular shows. Anyone who has Cher's first workout tape will remember Sanchez as the one on the floor without the step :-) This workout is fun and you go straight into the warm-up and then on to building up the dance routine little by little. Some of the steps are a little bit tricky and yes, it is a little repetitive but thats all to the good and the moves are demanding enough that even if you mentally wished it was longer and more varied, your body is perfectly happy with the workout as it is :-) Overall the first workout is fun to do and it doesn't get old. The music isn't as good as Cher's last fitness tape but it's still good enough to workout with especially when you bear in mind that this tape was made ten years ago! Like a lot of dance workouts, you're not going to use this to put on your own show, but it's great for burning fat and I find that I see results straight away. Cher's workout tapes are the ones I use when I need to lose weight. I'd recommend using this with Cindy Crawford's Next Challenge [fabulous for toning, strengthening and stamina] They're fun and maybe I'm in the minority but I actually loved Cher's workout gear :o)

Workout two is a 45 minute killer. Although this workout is designed to be used with resistance bands, you can do it just as well using weights. This workout is very intense and it's very encouraging to see Cher expressing the same pain you are feeling as you are put throught the moves. The results are very good but can I say.... OW! It really is difficult. Even the super-fit will struggle with this workout at first, because of its intensity and because it works those muscles that don't often get used. ... Read more

Amazon.com

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. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (50)

Not a beginner video
I give this video one thumb up and one thumb down. Pros: It will really get your heart rate up. Most 20-min workouts are wimpy, but this one (part 1 especially) will get you to work up a good sweat. THIS IS NOT A BEGINNER VIDEO. It is short, but intense. Cons: Denise's cueing SUCKED and she has NO rhythm. She would change moves after 5 reps, do things on the off-beat and almost never gave you advance warning of an upcoming change. Even her class got screwed up, with half of them changing at "the right time" and the other half doing their best to follow her. However, after a couple times doing the tape you learn her screw-ups well enough that it isn't a problem. Also, I would recommend doing some other kickboxing tapes before trying this. Denise goes very quickly over some safety tips at the beginning, but doesn't cover all the punches and kicks. Tae bo instructional video or Kathy Smith's Kickboxing video are good if you really want to learn the moves properly. Segment 2 is pretty worthless for strength training. Insufficient reps to do much good, even with a heavy weight. Overall though, I do like the video (part 1, really) and I usually throw it in afer doing a sculpting tape for a good 20 min of cardio

This grew on me
When I tried this the first few times, I wasn't that impressed. I was sweating and my heart rate got up, but I didn't feel that it was how I wanted to be spending my 20 minute aerobic session. I left it alone for a month, then tried it again out of boredom (and because it seemed silly to buy something else when I had this right in front of me). Absence must have made the heart grow fonder- I really enjoyed it this time. The next day I worked out to the Tae Bo Live Basic for a full 13 minutes longer and I was shocked to find that Billy didn't give me nearly as thorough a workout as Denise. I've been doing this tape consistently once or twice a week, and I can definitely feel my aerobic capacity and general stamina improving.

As with all tapes, watch this at least once before you do it. She doesn't cue very well in some places, and it can be a little frustrating. However, I think I'd rather have her keep me on my toes the first few times than get frustrated one month into it with over-cuing.

I prefer the first workout to the second because I like to do different exercises for my strength training. I did do the interval workout once and found it adequate.

Denise Austin Blast Away 10 lbs
I love this type. It is my second one. The first finally broke. I do this workout when I am short on time. It is 20min. and gets your heart bumping. You need to put your all into it to get results. It keeps me on track with working out. I have been working out steady for a year and a half. I am a big fan of Tamille Webb as well as The Firm.

It's alright
I agree with most of the rest of you... about how all of a sudden Austin decides to change moves without informing anyone... but what i REALLY found funny was the olive skinned, maybe Latino guy in red in the far right (first segment). he was obviously exhausted halfway thru the workout.
I think this tape is decent, but i wouldn't rely on this tape soley for your workout needs.

OK, I'll work out, if I have to
I bought this tape used, to break up my routine, and with any luck blast away 10 pounds at the same time. The first 20 minute work out is very challenging, not because of the aerobic level, but because of the tricky dance steps. Also there are minimal cues from Denise Austin to let you know the count or what the next step is. Most likely you'll need to go through this routine several times before you get a handle on it.

The second 20 minute routine is interval, and the aerobic portion is easier to manage--the dance steps are much more straight forward. The strength training here is great, but its also set to music and Denise has no sense of rythym--you'll need to coordinate the motions to the music for yourself.

Overall a good buy for a change in routine, but if this is the only exersize tape you use, you'll get frustrated fast. It'll take more than this to loose 10 pounds. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This step workout is broken into three segments for different levels of stamina and complexity. You can do just level 1 (12 minutes) or continue through level 2, for 22 minutes, or through level 3, for 32 minutes. Within each segment, Keli Roberts's assistants demonstrate different intensities, so you can work at your own pace as you build endurance. Roberts instructs well, with plenty of safety and alignment tips, and she repeats the combinations enough for you to get them. But the camera has an annoying habit of changing angles when she first introduces a new pattern, which is just when you want to keep watching her feet. Advanced exercisers will add some propulsion moves, such as jumping onto the step. After the step workout and stretch, you get 8 minutes of killer abdominals, and finally a calming, guided relaxation. Roberts is a celebrity trainer, and you can see why from the professional way she instructs this video--and from the to-die-for body that must motivate her clients! --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (73)

My first step video and I love it.
I'm an intermediate exerciser who had never tried stepping. I was absolutely awed by Keli Roberts after seeing her in Kathy Smith's Kickboxing workout - the woman is so powerful! - so I chose this as my first step video and I couldn't be happier.

Now I've read the comments from people not recommending this for beginners, and I have to disagree. If Keli is using the wrong names for the exercises, as a true beginner I can't tell. Maybe it will screw me up when I try another tape, but that's a chance I'm willing to take.

I was concerened about Keli not cueing right or left, since I'm not the most graceful person and I need all the cues I can get. It turned out not to be an issue since it doesn't really matter if you're using the same side or mirror imaging her. All the moves lead naturally from one side to the next, so pick a starting side and don't sweat it. It'll balance out.

Some right/left cuing would have made the moves easier to learn, admittedly, but it only took me about four runs to get a grasp on the first two segments. I love the music when the steppers get going: the *cthunk cthunk* of shoes on steps fits into the beat perfectly and I find it very energizing.

The ab workout was brutal - it inspired me to buy Keli's Abs & More tape. The guided relaxation was a little creepy, though. Out of nowhere she's gone from leading me through crunches to "feel the satin as it glides across your skin." Gah. No thanks. Some stretch instead would have made this video perfect. Thankfully, it's the last thing on the tape so you can turn it off and stretch on your own.

No so Ultimate
I take a lot of classes at the Gym and am used to a more challenging workout. This video is not for beginners because it doesn't explain the moves and Keli doesn't use standard names for all the moves. She also doesn't tell you whether you're leading with Left or Right. If you are an advanced stepper, this tape may be a little boring or slow paced for you. I had to add all the levels to my step to get my usual workout. If you at an intermediate level, this tape is great for you.

The abs section was killer - great abs workout.

If you are a beginner, I would recommend "Jane Fonda's Step Aerobic and Abdominal Workout ", it doesn't use a lot of complicated moves.

Thanks Keli!
I prefer the step workout on this tape to any aerobics I've done in college classes. I've been doing this routine three times a week for about seven months now and have lost all the weight I gained in my last pregnancy plus about fifteen pounds. Her moves can be a little hard to catch on to but if you do the routine a few times you should get them.

I LOVE this tape!!!
This is one of the best step tapes I own. It is a great workout and really gets your heart pumping. Combo's are easy to follow. She goes through about 10 different combo's so it never gets boring! I do step aerobics in my house 5-6 nights a week and this is deninately one of the best out there! I highly reccomend it.

great video!!!
I am so pleased that I bought this tape!!! All of the other vids have a lot of complicated, dancy moves that I don't want to do when I am working out!!! I just don't like having to concentrate that hard while trying to work up a sweat. I don't have 2 left feet but I'm no dancer either!! Also, there is no unecessary jumping which I really like because these knees have to last me a lifetime. I am an advanced exerciser so my only problem the first time I did this video was that I only had one riser on the step. I'll have to use 2 next time. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great for beginners
If you are horribly uncoordinated, like I am, but want to start doing step, this is the perfect beginning step workout for you. Or if you need a step workout to do when you just don't feel like working out at all. This video gives you a great workout, don't get me wrong, but it is only 30 minutes long and the moves are uncomplicated, so it's easy to follow. I got my heart rate up and felt great doing it! I wouldn't suggest it for the person who is looking for a fast-paced advanced step workout though. I have used this video for quite a few years and still love it.

Best Step Aerobics Video for Beginners!!!
Marsha Macro makes this video easy and fun! Her positive attitude and encouragement throughout the video makes it very enjoyable as well. This is great for beginners. It is the only workout video I was able to complete the first time I tried it. Most workout videos are so intense, that I could not finish, and then I would feel badly about not finishing and eventually give up on the video and excercise. I get a great sense of accomplishment every time I do the video. I highly recommend it, and I wish it were on DVD, so I do not have to worry about my tape eventually wearing out!!! I guess I should get extra copies instead.

Perfect Workout for Beginners
I started stepping about 1 1/2 years ago. Out of sheer luck, this video was the first step workout I found. I'm glad it was. I did not consider myself to be in bad shape; however, I had not stepped since a high school P.E. class nine years earlier. My calves burned big time and I had to rest in the middle of the workout. After a while, I got to learn the moves, added additional stretches for my calf muscles, and flew through the routine! Now I use it when I feel tired but still want to get my workout in or when I'm hard-pressed for time. I also use this tape when I want to try a higher step level.

This video is perfect for the beginning stepper because Marsha Macro's combinations are so simple. She introduces you to the basic step, how to change legs while stepping, and the over-the-top move. In fact, over-the-top and knee lifts are probably the most complicated moves on this video. Her moves are very deliberate and are clearly explained. There are no steppers in the background which may be confusing for beginners and there are no fancy arm movements. Only the natural arm marching movement is used. The workout also only lasts 20 minutes, including a warm-up, cool-down, and stretch. It's finished before you know it. Plus, by adding propulsion
(incorporating some power moves and getting the arms in the air) and using a higher step height than usual, one can get a higher level workout in a short period of time!

BEST low-impact step workout EVER!!
My family had originally bought this tape years ago, but with age and wear & tear, our original copy has deteriorated. THANKS, amazon.com, for making it easy for people to buy even the most hard-to-find videos! I had looked EVERYWHERE for another copy. HIGHLY recommended for anyone who needs a good, efficient workout!

Great Exercise Video
I have been doing this exercise video since I was about 16 years old. Recently I lost the video (wanting to get back into the exercise routine) and to my horrible shock it was gone. I love this exercise video so much I have been searching for weeks for it. But to no avail, I couldnt' find it. So if that doesn't explain how much I like it I dont think anything could. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

My Favorite Richard Simmons Tape
I am surprised the other reviewers found this workout difficult to follow. This is the first Richard Simmons dancing tape I bought, and it's the one I do most often. I have others like Dance Your Pants Off and Disco Sweat, but Sweatin' to the Oldies 3 seems to have better/easier choreography. I found the others more difficult to follow.
Granted, there are a few moves that are difficult for me to do, and a couple of songs/dances I could REALLY do without (i.e. Rockin' Robin), but overall I feel this is a great video. I generally alternate it with my Tae Bo and Kathy Smith tapes, yet it gives me just as good of a workout.

Anyother fine one from Richard
I have a library of VHS tapes and cookbooks by Richard. This tape is not one I usually pick up first. However, I enjoy changing them around and vary them throughout the month. I had a little bit more trouble following this one. For a baby boomer such as myself, sweatin' with Richard is a good way to try to stay limber and feel better about one's self. But if I were on a budget, tape one or two would be my pick.

Love it Love it
I would have to say this is one of the best aerobics videos out there. although it can be complicated sometimes, but isn't all aerobics like that. I love seeing various types of people doing the exercise with me. It makes me feel that if those people can do it, so I can I. Unlike other tapes where I feel I can't become like them. It has great songs and wonderful cool down time. So if your having a hard time catching up with other aerobics video, this is for you. This is a stepping stone for the high impact aerobics.

Great for pre-teens or anyone with long term excersize needs
This is the best tape I own. I have been using it daily for 7 months and have dropped 78lbs so far (42lbs to go!). This tape does not try to exhaust you but instead target that 120 bpm range for the 25 minute of recommened exercise along with two target stretch songs and a warm up and cool down song (total 10 songs) it is perfect if your looking for something you can talk yourself into doing everyday. No way could I ever do an "exhaust-O" tape and keep with it for this long. The songs are upbeat and fun which I think kids would like too.

Love this tape!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is my favorite of all of Richard Simmons's tapes. The workout is fun, easy to follow and can be done with a lot of gusto for a solid, sweaty workout or (I blush to admit this) sort of half heartedly and I still will get my heart beating. Tiny breaks between every song give me just enough time to keep hydrated and the music, set and overall production values are high. There's that motivational bit at the end, where you can see how much people have lost and even some funny outtakes.
Not to mention a thorough warm up and cool down - a step so many other videos seem to skimp on and for me the difference between feeling energized and invigorated and being sore and stiff.

I shudder to think of the day my copy gives out. ... Read more

Description

Increase the definition in your quads, butt, hamstring and calves with this Legs Of Steel workout created just for men. Year: 1994 Starring:Gilad Janklowicz ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not for the beginner
I really liked the video. The only thing is that she goes pretty fast and in the beginning it is hard to stay with her. I don't recommend it for a beginner, but great for the intermediate or advanced level person.

Effective but not easy on the knees
I love Tamilee Webb's videos. SHe has excellent cuing, the exercise tapes that she makes are really effective (of course if you are consistent!) and she is very non-threatening. Legs of STeel is a wonderful change from the usual leg exercises and instead of laying down these exercises are performed using a chair for support while standing.

Each area of the thigh and butt (inner, outer, hamstring) is worked with a set of squats in between. This a a tape in which you will truly feel the burn.

My only complaint are the lunges done at the end of the tape. Since I am not as strong I had to struggle to maintain proper support. The tape can also be made more difficult with the addition of ankle weights.

All in all a good bargain but watch your knees.

I'd say this is not just for beginners
I have this tape, and while it is one of my easier lower body tapes, I feel it still challenges me. I use a Spri rubber exercise band instead of the ankle weights and feel it is tougher by pulling for resistance, rather than a weighted leg. I also use heavy weights during the squat sections. Every leg exercise is separated with a series of squats. At the end of the routine, you do each exercise a 2nd time. Then at the very end, you do 2 sets of 10 lunges, but with those you use plyometrics and switch your legs in mid air. I often use my heavy weights and just do stationary lunges instead, then switch legs on the 2nd set.

I don't have to do much to make this workout harder--just add weights to the squats and do the lunges different. The rest is as tough or as light as you want it to be, but not just great for beginners.

Great for beginners
This Tamilee web video is a great workout. I picked up this video because I am gym shy and want to gain some strength and flexibility, along with good workout habits to build up the nerve to join a gym. She provides excellent advice for the novice especially about technique. The workout is less than 30 minutes but it is easy to follow, including the warm up and cool down. There is useful advice for both beginners (use a chair for support) and for more intermediate users (ankle weights and resistance). ... Read more

Amazon.com

Rodney Yee leads Abs Yoga for Beginners from the serene Death Valley. The gentle sands of the desert lend to the calming mood of Yee's supple movements, which are designed to firm and strengthen your abs while providing a soothing respite from your hectic lifestyle. Beginning with 4 minutes of conscious breathing, moving into 13 minutes of abs yoga workout, and ending with 3 minutes of deep relaxation, the tape is an introduction to yoga for those who would like the added benefit of targeting their abdominal regions.The poses are, for the most part, simple to follow, although the beginner may need to ease into some of the positions; lowering straight legs to the ground is challenging, but of course, as in all of Living Arts yoga tapes, you are encouraged to move at your own speed. A blanket to sit on is required. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (69)

A different kind of ab workout--no crunches necessary!
This tape was my first introduction to yoga; I had absolutely NO experience with yoga prior to purchasing this video. Although it doesn't involve many traditional yoga poses, the exercises flow together in a way that is unique to yoga. When I first tried this tape, I wasn't quite sure when the warm-up ended and the "real" workout began--the transition was that smooth and gentle.

The workout begins in a seated position and focuses on breathing, then moves on to hands and knees for a back stretch (Cat pose). The majority of the workout is performed lying on your back, where you will do simple yet challenging leg extensions and twists to challenge the abdominal area. After a quick rise to a standing position, the workout returns to the floor to end with lying relaxation poses.

The moves become gradually more difficult, but I think that most beginners will be able to perform the majority of this workout. I believe that this workout has helped me to developed stronger abs (though I haven't seen the miracle-like results that other reviewers have mentioned). Rodney Yee is a wonderful instructor--he has a calming voice, his instructions are clear and precise, and he is not overly "new age-y." I would definitely recommend this tape for anyone looking to exercise their abs without doing crunches for a change.

Goodbye abs of steel tape!
If you are expecting something like a hardcore ab workout then guess again... this is yoga. It's well rounded with breathing techniques and relaxation on top of moves to strengthen and tone your abs all in 20 mins... great for doing before bed or first thing in the morning. Rodney Yee's voice is soothing, giving good instruction so you don't have to look at the TV very often, and the photography is so beautiful. I'm a yoga virgin so a lot of moves are quite hard to master, but who said that it would be easy?

If you're looking for something different to do rather than the traditional way, try this video out. The relaxation and breathing techniques are great for reducing stress and let you feel refreshed. Creating a tranquil atmosphere (like candles or soft lighting)whilst doing the tape can help enhance the mood it aims for. Rodney Yee does it, he's in a tranquil place on the video and not in a studio.

I use this more for relaxing than a full on ab workout.

Excellent ab routine
Excellent workout but too hard for many beginners.

When I fist started yoga I found some of the poses too taxing for my back (so I skipped or modified them). Now that I have gotten stronger I really like this workout. It starts easy and gets more difficult. If you do what you can you will make progress and be able to do more.

Definitely heed the warnings of other reviewers: if you have lower back problems be very careful and modify some of the poses.

If you are a beginner and have not done other ab exercises before you might find this video very challenging. If you have some ab strength already this will take it to the next level.

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.

Yee's voice is soothing and he's very discriptive about what he's doing so it's easy to follow along. There are no insane poses that are impossible for beginners. I have problems with my lower back, but I have no difficulties at all doing any of these poses. You have options other than the boring standard crunches and situps and it's wonderfully refreshing.

If you're a little more advanced, this may not be the best tape for you, but if you're just starting out or if you're looking for something specifically for your abs to ad to your program, this is great. I found that I can do my more rigorous tapes during the day and do this just before bed.

If you're limited on time and would like to do some type of exercise at night, but don't want to get too wound up that you can't sleep, this is a great tape for you. It's short. It does what it promises and it's relaxing.

Great for abs if your BACK is strong
Definitely great for beginners to yoga! My only caution is that your BACK must definitely be strong in order to comfortably work the abs- in this or any other *abs* workout- so if you are really out of shape, I'd highly recommend spending the time and money on a good back exercise video.

Yoga has been one of my greatest teachers. I'm middle aged, fairly flexible, and have been doing other forms of yoga for years, yet I had never focused on my *abs*. Due to medical problems, I had never really worked this mid-section of my body, and they were terribly out of shape. Yet for years, I have done a great deal of yoga to strengthen my back, and I have the flexibility of a MUCH younger person due to yoga.

Yoga is never really about spot-training any individual part of the body. It views the body as an integrated whole, movement connected to breath, with an awareness that is often absent in other popular forms of exercise. Moving into the postures -the asanas - brings centering and balance to your movement, serenity and peacefulness to your state of mind.

Rodney Yee's *Yoga For Abs* lives up to the best in the Iyengar yoga tradition. He begins this workout with an emphasis upon the breath, connecting the breath to the center of the body, where all the movements in this video originate. There is a quiet, meditative warm-up focused on breathing, which lasts about 4 minutes. Then follows the more intense, yet still quiet, part of the workout, which lasts about 12 minutes. No pumping here! Most of the video is done on the floor, lying down, with many legs lifts and Yee again emphasizing the breath. The most difficult asanas for me are the variations of the *bow pose*, and I must do a modification, as I am not yet strong enough to do these. Your back must be strong to effectively do this part of the workout. The video ends with a cool down and a relaxation, which lasts 3-4 minutes. The entire video is filmed in a beautiful desert, with Yee surrounded by sand dunes and mountain sky, and his voice-over is peaceful and soothing.

If you are still young and in relatively good shape, and used to doing heafty cruches for your abs, you will probably be bored with the meditative quality of yoga. Rodney Yee's style is soothing and focused, allowing you to work into the more intense, yet quiet asanas. I've been working with this video, in combination with other yoga videos several times a week for a couple of months now, and I can definitely feel and see a difference. I look forward to exercising with this, and I feel fantastic when I come to the end of this video! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Not my favorite Leslie tape
While I love Leslie's walking tapes, this is not my favorite. Her fat burning 3 Mile with the 2-lb. weights is a much better workout IMO. Also, her 4 Mile Super Challenge is a great workout. This one was a disappointment.

Good i use it every other day.
I have almost all of her tapes, This one is good, i dont care for the Stretchie, i like the ones with weights better I think they work harder. but this one goes well with my others. I use it a bit because i can do it in the bedroom Its easy to follow. and works you moderate level. try it.

Great Video!
I love this video! I usually walk 3 miles outdoors--but due to cold weather I have moved my walk to the den. This video is a good workout and easy to follow!

Fun And Challenging!
I just tried Leslie Sansone's Walk Away The Pound Express 3 Mile Advanced Walk and it is definitely a winner. I could feel the glutes and hamstrings really getting a deep workout. The atmosphere is very colorful, the exercisers are dressed the same and there are all shapes and sizes of people whom appear in the dvd. Leslie is soooo encouraging and excellent with the cueing of new moves. I am looking forward to doing this one again and again!

Great Exercise Program!
This exercise program is great. You don't even realize that you are walking 3 miles, the time goes by fast, and you won't get bored, because you are always switching steps, but it isn't confusing like some video exercise programs I've done. You maintain a nice pace throughout, and the warm-up/cool-down times are good. I highly recommend this tape. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Excellent exercises that really work the arms . . .
Aside from the annoying artsy set and scenes of this video, Claudia Schiffer, with the help of Kathy Kaehler, does lead/teach several exercises for the biceps, triceps, deltoids, etc that actually provide quick results.

Between each exercise, there is about a 10-second preview of the next exercise (I use this time to stretch). Additionally, there are four sets of push-ups spread throughout the workout. One word of caution about the sets is Claudia does every move too fast! I perform my reps slowly and get better results so I am usually about 3 reps behind Claudia. I would not recommend trying to keep up with her; performing reps that quickly sacrifices form and movement.

I have a hard time believing that Claudia Schiffer actually does these exercises. I also don't like the implication that if one does these exercises, one will look like Claudia Schiffer. I would have much preferred having Kathy Kaehler lead the exercises (in some scenes the screen is split with Kathy and Claudia; Kathy has a much more realistic body).

Props needed: chair and light weights (water bottles and soup cans can substitute).

Great Upper Body Workout!
I purchased this video after viewing a friend's tape and decided to buy it for those times we couldn't get together. It worked so well and as Kathy Kaehler doing the voice-over instructing on correct form, position, counting and breathing reminders was very helpful. The scenery is fabulous and Claudia is a breath of fresh air. She makes the moves seem so effortless yet she's inspiring at the same time. The only reason I rated this video a 4 and not a 5 star, is that I felt there was an exercise missing for the lower back, i.e. a bent-over row. Otherwise superbly done and I look forward to using it!

A very effective arm work-out
I really Love the Perfectly Fit series. They are a great way to tone up. What I really like is that there is not a distracting group of people behind the main person or trainer. I LOVE it. Thank you Kathy Kaehler and Claudia Schiffer.

You will see the results!!!
I began this workout to add some definition and strength to my arms before the summertime (and sleeveless shirts and dresses). I worked out about 3 times a week for three months, ate healthy foods, and used walking as cardio, and let me tell you, I've got the greatest arms now. I keep showing them off!!!

Also a word of motivation: a year ago I was completely sedentary, never worked out, ate junk food and weighed considerably more than I do now. If you really want to make a positive change for yourself, just stick with it, even when you don't feel like working out. I can guarantee you, once you start this tape, you'll want to keep it up.

The only negative thing I can say is that the reps are done too quickly sometimes, so I will often do fewer than Claudia does (ie: 8 instead of 10, 12 instead of 15) so that I really slow down and concentrate on the muscles being worked. Otherwise, I loved the scenery, the music was good and Kathy Kaehler now has my utmost respect as a fitness trainer.

Forearmed is well-armed
I can think of other more interesting anatomical areas that Schiffer could have covered for an exercise video, but if you're a real arm man, as opposed to one of the other more popular and obvious choices, this video is the hottest thing out there to help your significant other get a leg up on toning up those ubiquitous but often neglected upper extremities. Highly recommended for those women whose reach exceeds their grasp, so to speak. ... Read more

Product Description

BODY FLEX 1 & 2 with Greer Childers, 52-mother of 3.. Body Flex 1 is the instructional tape , it introduces The Tummy Tuck , Face Lift , Complete Bodylift without Surgery , Only 15 Minutes a Day , No Diet.. Body Flex 2 is the workout tape.. Desigened for Beginners ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Great Starter Workout
After I had my baby my abs were gone. I could barely lift my head off the ground. After a few weeks of this video I can really do sit-ups again. This is an easy but effective workout that gets your body gently back into shape to the point where you can start using more intense workout videos again. It also has great stretches for the arms, shoulders, & back to help with those breastfeeding pains. It's been worth the money.

User-friendly way to ease back into exercising after baby..
Fitness level: all levels, early post-partum Setting: Studio Breakdown: 3-minute segment floor exercise segment for the very first days post-partum; 5-minute standing warm-up; 10 minute segment for abs; 10 minutes for buns; 10 minutes for legs Music: cheesy "exercise" style--it's so bad I have no words with which to classify it! Focus on the excellent instruction instead and you'll be just fine :) Production: good Safety: A+++ meets ACOG guidelines

I bought this tape before my daughter was born, after reading in Shape Pregnancy that it had a segment you could do right away even after a cesearean delivery. That was what I was facing, so into my shopping cart it went along with the diapers and baby lotion. How glad I am that I bought it. Next pregnancy I'm going to buy Madeleine's pregancy workout to rotate with Kathy Smith's. This lady, like Kathy, not only pays attention to safety, but she calls in the experts to help her make it safe. Bonnie Rote, RN was the medical collaborator on both BOS Pregnancy and B & A Post-Pregancy.

I did the three-minute segment at the beginning when I was a week post-partum, then added the five-minute warm-up two days later. At two weeks I added the abs. The rest, as they say, is history.

What I loved about this workout was that each toning segment has its own little warm-up and cool-down, so I could break it up and work out whenever I had 10 minutes of time. When I was breastfeeding, especially in the first three months, that was often all I had time and energy for. (New moms in the group can probably relate to this--right?) Besides, I have this thing about floor exercise. I'd rather eat nails. Doing it in 10 minute increments--and with Madeleine and her crew suffering along with me--made it much more bearable. This tape was all I did for about 6 months post-partum before easing back into aerobics.

Madeleine is an excellent instructor--she cues well, provides just the right amount of encouragement, and best of all, is friendly without getting on your last nerve. Somebody get this woman in front of a camera again! I, too, recommend this as a great present for a new mom or mom-to-be. Put it in a pretty basket with some bubble bath and a gift certificate for free baby-sitting, and you'll be a shoo-in for Friend of the Year. . .

Grade: A+ and ten points extra credit

Even good for a "never exercised" Mom with an 18 month old
I'm not exactly in the "post-pregnancy" stage, but, having never really done any serious exercising before, this tape sounded like it would be a good, safe starting point. The first day, I was dead tired - and that was only after the "preconditioning exercises" & about 5 minutes of the abs section. But I was determined and stuck with it...

Needless to say, I LOVE this tape (even if the music is cheesy). Madeline is an EXCELLENT instructor - gives good instructions and explains things; she lets you know when you're almost done (a key feature, in my opinion!!) The two other women that appear in the video don't say much, and to me, it's apparent that Madeline is trying desperately to get them involved... Ok by me that they just go about their business.

After a month and a half of use, I can get through the abs and buns segments, and most of the legs segment, and feel that I've accomplished something. Definitely a keeper!!! I use it on alternating days (on the other days, I use Leslie Sansone's Miracle Mile - which is also an excellent tape...)

The burn is worth the rewards!
I could not believe how well this video works on the abs! I felt the burn immediately, and noticed that I was holding myself with better posture after the first workout. After having done the video only a few times, I can tell a difference already.

A very useable video for a new mother
I love the way that this video is broken into 4 segments. It makes it possible for me to excercize regularly without feeling bad that I can not do an entire tape at one time.

The music gets annoying, but the excercizes themselves have really made a difference to the way my body looks! I am really glad that I bought this video! ... Read more

Reviews (28)

A Great Workout Video
Probably the best workout video I own. The variation of exercises in the 8 minutes of each featured workout makes the time fly yet you feel the burn. When I first started, I thought how will I ever be able to do this? With determination, in 3 short weeks I wear 10 pound ankle weights to keep the resistance up. I would have never believed how fast this workout would have toned anyone up. As other reviews state, you can feel the tightness in your jeans and see the 6 pack in the tee shirt. Highly recommend!

Not recommended
I was surprised to find that there is only one 8 minute workout on each tape, unlike the Abs of Steel tapes which contain 3 workouts to rotate. The actual content of the tapes varied. The moves on the abs tape were customary and effective, although after doing the same routine daily for a while it would likely lose its impact. The buns video was not as effective and terribly hard on the knees. I had concerns about the form and discontinued doing it to be on the safe side. Both tapes are extremely fast paced and it is important to move at your own speed so that your moves are done safely and properly. Don't try to keep up with the host, he moves much too quickly.

Overall, I dont recommend this film. The abs of steel series are a better value with more diverse workouts, and some quick biking will do the backside more good than 8 minute buns.

Great Workouts!
If you're new to weights and/or exercise, if you're overweight or out of shape, if you have a physical challenge, or if you just want something quick and effective to tone your arms and buns, this is an excellent video.

You'll get a very effective upper body workout with the arms part. It is, admittedly, a bit short. I find I don't always get more than 8 reps in the one set. That's not really enough for most people. But if you use a five pound weight at least and do this twice a week, you'll firm up. And remember, you can use this as a nice start for another set or two with heavier weights on your own if you like.

This is a no-nonsense workout. It's well presented and timed. It's not for everyone. But it is effective if it fits your needs and time constraints. I suggest you warm up for about five minutes before you do either or both of these workouts.

The buns workout is very good and effective too. If you have bad knees, you may want to adjust some of the exercises like the deep knee lunge. Know your limits and work within them. But if you do these exercises, you'll slim down.

I suggest you do either or both of these twice a week if you can.

I highly recommend this video.

8 min abs ,arms ,stretch,legs,buns!!!
Hello iam a second time buyer of these wonderful videos they are so easy to follow and the time is such a plus and not only that all the extras on the dvd i got helps me to push my self to other types of workouts!i would recomend these to everyone they really do work as stated in the work out them self, i have had them going on 6 weeks and i am starting to see results!! and i pass them to friends and share them also by word of mouth ..with that all i can say is iam glad i found this website and the videos......thank you

How 8 Minute Workouts Helped Me
I had a baby in April of 2001, and I was up to 192 pounds (also i'm only 5'3!),so I tried the ab roller thing and other stuff and it didn't really do much for me. I mean I lost some weight, but I didn't get the results I wanted. In July of 2002, My mom bought me the 8 Minute Workout tapes so I started doing it and I got results so fast it amazed me!! I was a size 12, now I'm a size 7 and I weigh 118 pounds!!! I never thought it would worked but I was proved wrong. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

FUN FUN FUN
I love Richard!!! He is helping me lose all that unwanted weight. I have many of his tapes including this one, and I enjoy them all. I will say that I would tell people to start with something like Sweatin to the Oldies1 and then go from there. Disco Sweat is alot of fun...but does take some time to learn...just stick with it and have fun sweatin!!!

very pleased
Disco sweat was very entertaining.It takes about 3 times to learn the majority of the moves, so I stayed motivated to learn and to laugh at myself when I could not keep up.To have it down pat you have to remember he does everything 4 times.It tones all your muscles without you knowing it , unless you were tired before you started.I loved it ,because I hate to exercise and with this video I enjoyed it.Also the dance moves are fun, the crunches are effective(takes 5 times to get them right, but glad I hung in there).Overall I have used this video for over a year and still like it just wish the music could change.

Good but I prefer the Blast Off series
This video is fun. I had a great workout. I kind of added my own little tae-bo moves into the kicks and leg-raises when I felt that it wasn't working me hard enough. I prefer the Blast and Tone, 80's Blast off, and 60's Blast off over this one. Mainly because you work-out harder in a shorter amount of time.:) This video is a great one to have in your collection. The crunches are great.

Good Workout
This exercise video took me awhile to learn as the routine is more complicated than Sweatin' to the Oldies; however, once I learned it, I got a great workout and had fun, too! It has a mixture of high and low intensity routines and the songs are great. Like the other Richard Simmons' workout videos, different size people are exercising with him - makes it more realistic and fun. Another interesting part is at the end when each dancer's weight loss is shown. Thumbs up on this one.

Excellent workout! Fabulous motivator!
Richard has done it again. This workout is very good. He keeps you motivated by telling you that you can do it and you will learn the steps. The people don't all whoop and holler every second either which is nice. A great workout, one of my favorite tapes! ... Read more

Reviews (42)

Boring
I'm an intermediate to advanced excersiser and I borrowed this video from the library for variety. I was disappointed. Susan says that the video is for all fitness levels, but I barely broke a sweat. I was so bored because the moves rarely changed. There was only one ab exercise which didn't target the obliques or lower abdomen and if she said "Oxygen" one more time, I planned on screaming. She didn't even do most of the workout. She spent most of the time talking to her flunkies. I don't recommend this video. If beginners are looking for a step and toning video, try some of Kathy Smith's workouts.

great video, easy to follow
I was skeptical when I first bought this tape. Some people told me they thought Susan Powter would be annoying. I think she's great. This is my favorite video. I like everything about it. I like interval training. It's not boring, good set, good music. I get a total body workout. Her moves are easy to follow. I highly recommend this tape. I would definitely buy more of her tapes. She has high energy without being annoying.

Susan Powter: Burn Fat & Get Fit Saves My Dad's Life
I just want to tell everyone out there and Thank Susan Powter for making this video. My Dad is completely addicted to this video. Every morning from 8 - 9 he has been doing this exercise program for years. My Dad was diagnosed with prostrate cancer and then esophacus cancer. He had a radiation bead for his prostrate to keep that under control as it was caught early. Then they were checking him at his regular check up and had found a small growth of cancer on his esophagus. He exercised to this video until the date of his surgery. They told him normally they would not be able to do this operation on a 70 year old man... However because of his great strength from his exercising they felt his heart could handle this surgery. If he did not have this surgery the cancer would have spread, as this is a very delicate area to have a growth. We told the doctors we owed it to Susan Powter for his strength. His surgery was done he ran into complications as he was leaking protein as the tissues were like sewing wet kleenex together... so they opened him up yet 3 more times. Again they would not have been able to do this if he had not exercised his heart... with this video daily. He is now free and cancer free!! I drop in sometimes to see him in the mornings and we all know from 8 - 9 am he is working his Susan Powter Video. We know he will not answer the phone or anything else during this time. This morning he called me very sad as his machine ate the tape... We now need to get him a new one and mabe even a DVD copy if possible so this does not happen again... So that is why I am on the WEB site right now to find out how to get him a copy and a back up copy. He is lost this morning with out it.

Anyway that is my story... His name is Lawrence.. Dad I am so proud of you and your dedication to doing this video daily... Thanks Susan for my Dad...

Susan Powter: Burn Fat & Get Fit
Although, this video was ok (had I had a step, it would have been better), without the step it was TOO beginner. I consider myself a beginner, but it was no challenge without the step. Susan Powter was a little rough. It seemed like she was intiminating to Sally and Eric, the two that were working out with her. To me, she was acting too much like a drill seargent in this video. (I was in the military, so I know what I am talking about). I will still do the workout. I'll just shut the sound off and play some different music in the background when I do it. It also seemed like she watched Kathy Smith's step-aerobics tape from 1992 before she did her video, because there was a lot of simularities between what Kathy did and what Susan does with the moves and the advise. It is TOO SIMULAR!! (except Kathy Smith is nice).

I really wanted to like this video, but...
I work out with exercise videos a minimum of 5 days/week and was looking to add another tape to the mix. One workout with this video was enough to know it wasn't for me. The aerobic segments are extremely repetitive. Not only is this boring, but you are working the same muscle groups over and over. The toning segments are good and compensate somewhat for the repetitive nature of the aerobics, although it wasn't enough to keep me interested in the workout as a whole. I was also annoyed and distracted by Susan constantly breaking out of her routine to either praise or correct the form of the other two participants. I much prefer the leader to LEAD by doing the workout with proper form and verbally offering corrections and suggestions. I would not recommend this video--there are much better options for beginner/intermediate level exercisers. ...