Reviews (9)

Better than I expected...
In the beginning you will be greeted by 3 people. The instructor and 2 others working out with him. 1 is a female and is for beginners (she doesn't have weights). And the second person is a guy and he is for those who have worked out before (he uses weights). The instructor (who is using 2 cans of food not weights) tells you what to do and the name of the movement. The screen shows you the name of the movements and how many minutes and seconds you have left. The left side of the screen has how many minutes you have left (it counts backwards) and on the right side of the screen it shows how many seconds you have left till you finish each movement. This is a straight and to the point workout. There are different movements for your arms, back, chest and shoulders. I needed this because I am trying to get my upper body back into shape. I was surprised, this workout was quick, fast and to the point. There was no breaks, warm ups or a chance to stop. It's good to do a five minute warm up and stretch your arms and back before going in. Be sure to breathe and have some water handy. In the end...I can actually say I had fun. For a workout that came out so long ago, It didn't seem like it. I would recommend this. A+

Save Money Instead of Buying Flowers for Valentines Day
A couple months ago I got the "8 Minute Abs" video and it totally rocked my world. It was just incredible to get rid of my gut, and all it really took was the commitment to do the darn tape every day, no matter what. I gave myself that like a present for my 38th birthday. And after just a couple months my old lady was so turned on and hot for me again that we started doing this "New Sex Now" and "Goddess Worship" sex stuff off some videos, and it was just radical! My old lady was just so diggin' me, and I was lovin' life! So I said hey, why not get my arms all rockin' cut too? And I got this tape and, for Valentine's day I'm gonna get a red rose tatood on my tricep and give her that instead of a dozen long-stems! Ha!

Total arm workout
8 Minute Arms is exactly that: 8 minutes of arm exercises with very, very little breaks in between. This is an excellent tape to add to your collection for the days that you really don't feel like working out (but would feel even worse if you don't) or for the days that you want to go easy and just have to do have do a little something.
This tape assumes that the viewer is familiar with the exercises and that you have warmed up beforehand. There is no warmup, Jaime jumps into the program immediately after explaining what types of weight to use. Each exercise lasts for 30 seconds and the triceps, biceps, upper back and shoulders are targeted.
This tape is challenging for beginners, those who have backslid and someone who wants to get a quick workout with out leaving the house.

Great and really works!
It's short. But it works. If you don't have much time to do weights or if you have a health challenge or are out of shape or a bit older, this is an excellent choice.

Can't praise the "8 Minute" series enough!
I'm female, in my late 30's, and have had two kids--and I used to weigh over 245 lbs and was a size 24. After a good year of working out at home with tapes, and eating somewhat better (though I still love food too much), I managed to get down to a size 10 and hope to be even smaller by this summer. The 8 Minute tapes, together with a bunch of longer cardio/aerobics tapes that I rotate (because otherwise I get bored), get a lot of credit for my transformation.

The Arm workout actually gave me definition I never thought I'd see in my chubby arms--helped firm up the jiggly areas under the triceps, etc. The way I used the 8 minute series was, I'd use an aerobic tape (like a Crunch Fat Blaster, for example) then while I was warmed up I'd do the 8 minute workout for Arms, then Abs, then I'd stretch. That was every other day. In between, I'd do pretty much the same thing but tacking on the 8 minute Legs & Buns instead of arms & abs. When the exercises got easier, I added weight and/or an extra time through the 8 minute videos. To me that's very important--I've "outgrown" a lot of videos--I won't outgrow these!

I have to say that in order of preference I like the abs, then arms, then buns, then legs videos--but they all are very good. They're short enough that I don't get bored or lazy about using them, and when I'm travelling I remember the moves to do on my own away from the VCR. And as everyone says, ANYBODY can find 8 minutes here & there to squeeze a session in--I've been known to serve my kids lunch, pop in a tape, and be finished before they are--etc.

The only complaints I have: no warm-up, so unless I've already done something else I have to take time to do that; and, with the arm video, the sets CAN be too quick (I'd prefer to work with less speed and more control)--but both of these fall under the price one pays for having the workout only be 8 minutes long. There was a time years ago (before the kids) when I spent more money and time than I care to admit in the gym--I've had better results at home with these tapes as the foundation of my regimen.

Hope you have the same great results! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Feel like the Tae-Bo craze passed you by? Maybe you think you're a little too old or slightly too out of shape for therock-'em-sock-'em moves of the high-energy aerobics class. Well, Billy Blanks hears you, and he's created a fitness tape just for you: Tae-Bo Gold. While this program says it's geared for the "mature" crowd (which apparently in youth-oriented Los Angeles means those over 40), the easier pace and gentler moves make it appropriate for anyone who doesn't have the stamina for Blanks's other Tae-Bo tapes. There's less hopping from foot to foot and the moves are simpler. And for a refreshing change of pace, the workout class is populated with some folks who are elderly and some who aren't in the peak condition of the exercisers in the other Tae-Bo videos.

But don't let these things make you think you aren't going to get a real workout, because the mixture of boxing punches and martial arts kicks will get the heart rate pumping. Mixing in five tunes from the 1950s and '60s with Blanks's own less-than-wonderful music, this 35-minute video shows modifications for those with less balance or who need to take things slower or just can't quite reach their toes. Blanks, as always, is supportive with constant admonishments to get that glass of water or march in place if you need to. This video does, unfortunately, have some drawbacks, the most notable that it can be difficult to hear Blanks's instruction over the loud music. While the moves do begin slowly, you may wish to do a more complete warm-up before the video. And with all of the Tae-Bo videos, you should first carefully watch the Instructional video, available separately, to learn the proper form for all the moves. But disadvantages aside, Tae-Bo Gold proves you're never too old to get into shape, and this is a terrifically fun workout, for folks of all ages. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Not for unfit over-40s
I bought the Tae-Bo Gold tape for my 39th birthday. It says it's for the over-40s but I think I'm close enough.

I am quite fit running 3 or 4 times per week and I was a little sceptical when I saw that the running time on the video was only 35 minutes. After I did the tape I still felt that it was not challenging enough since I had no trouble getting through it the first time. However, I really felt my back and my hips the next day - always the sign of a good workout.

I do think that an unfit older person would have trouble with the video as there are a lot of combination kicking and punching moves. As my husband put it - if my 62 year old mother tried this, she'd fall over.

Also it is difficult to hear Billy Blanks at times because the music is very loud. As for Billy himself, he is terrific - very friendly, enthusiastic and motivating without making you feel like you are a failure if you can't do it all.

Worth the money...
I am an over-40 Tae-Bo veteran who found myself bored with the Basic tape and not willing to spend the time needed for the Advanced tape. So I was stuck in the middle until I purchased the Gold tape about 8 months ago. Although Billy is hard to hear at times, the tape is not as jarring as the Advanced and the music is much better than the Basic. I enjoy seeing regular people like myself in the video and the Motown music is a real motivator for me. Others have knocked this tape as a "sell out" for Blanks, saying he caved in to popular demands, but isn't that what exercise is all about? If it gets you moving, it's worth it.

Abandon the Eating Disorders, Try This Instead
After having my first child and being on continuous bedrest during my pregnancy I had went from 130lbs to 180lbs by the time I had delivered and my 6 weeks of recovering were over. To get myself back in shape, I purchased this workout. Mostly though, because all that "bing, bong, beep beep, bang" music they play in the background drives me nuts in the other Tae-Bo workouts and the music in this workout is more tolerable.

Anywho, that's not really the point of the Gold workout or this review. After doing this workout 3-4 days a week, walking (not too far) on the days I wasn't attacking Tae-Bo and also eating one of those balanced food pyramid type of diets that aren't so popular anymore, I got back down to 140lbs in 4 months. WOO HOO! The last 10lbs came off within a few months after I had stopped working at a restaurant with grease food.

Now after having my second child I'm just starting to get back into this Tae-Bo stuff because I tried losing the weight other ways and they make me feel like crap and the weight just isn't coming off very fast. It's been 9 months since birth and I've lost 15lbs since birth via being a housewife.

If you're starting out I'd do this tape. I eventually worked up to the more advanced workouts but I didn't lose anymore and I just started looking more muscular like a man, I didn't like that too much so I stuck to the Gold and I'm doing it again. Being a muscularly person just isn't my cup of tea , if it's not yours either but you'd like to keep the weight off, you ought to try this.

GROUPTABULOUS
ME AND CO-WORKERS LOVE THIS PARTICULAR VIDEO EVEN THOUGH SOME OF US ARE UNDER 40 WE STILL GET A GOOD WORKOUT. WE RECENTLY STARTED WORKING OUT AND THIS GOES AT A PRETTY GOOD PACE WITHOUT BEING TOO MUCH OR BEING TOO LITTLE. THE ONLY COMPLAINT I HAVE, AND THIS IS NOT REALLY A COMPLAINT, IS THAT HE DOES MORE REPS ON ONE SIDE THEN HE DOES ON THE OTHER SIDE.

Geared to the 40+ crowd but still TOUGH!
Although I'm only 36, I decided to try this workout as my first Tae Bo video because I'm still fairly new to kickboxing. Taught by Tae Bo instructor Billy Blanks, this workout is extremely low-impact yet also surprisingly tough at the same time. Billy leads a class of mostly middle-aged participants, but they are all in very good shape, including the 70-year old woman who can kick MUCH higher than I can!

After a few minutes of warm-up stretches, Billy begins an easy to follow kickboxing routine. He emphasizes punches more than kicks, although some kicks as well as quite a few knee lifts are included. Unlike other kickboxing workouts I have tried, there are few combination routines; instead, Billy teaches in an 8-count style, often repeating the same movement for several sets. Following the 25-minute aerobic segment, you hold a static squat for 1 minute, and then you move to a hands and knees position for about 3 minutes of work on the butt area. The workout ends with a 5 minutes stretch: 4-minutes of yoga-like stretches in a seated position and then a final 1-minute of standing stretches, making the total workout time about 34 minutes.

As an instructor, Billy Blanks is very likeable and extremely enthusiastic. Plus, he offers many modifications in this workout, even showing how some of the kicks can be done seated in a chair. However, his counting is not always accurate, and he frequently completes an uneven number of sets from one side of the body to the other. Also, the Motown music used for this workout is quite loud, making Billy's instructions a bit difficult to hear at times, and the transitions from song-to-song did not flow smoothly with the workout. If you can overlook these minor flaws, this is a fun workout for anyone who is already in fairly good shape but looking to give Tae Bo a try. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While the title might seem like something more likely to be found on oneof Letterman's Top 10 Lists ("Future Careers of Movie Has-Beens" or"Reasons to Wear Pajamas in Public"), David Carradine's Tai Chi Workout forBeginners is nothing if not completely serious. Carradine narrates and helpsa certified tai chi instructor lead three students through the Chen style,considered by some to be the original style of tai chi. Against an ever-changing(and distracting) nature video backdrop, the 60-minute tape breaks the exercisesinto sections: "Opening the Gates" loosens and warms major joints; "SpecificHealth" movements relieve headaches or soothe joints, for instance; "Stillness"harnesses the mind's powers; "Linkage" shows how to combine the moves; and in"Coil & Flow" you see how it's supposed to look once you know what you're doing.It'll take repeated viewings to master this ancient and complicated martial art- -the number one reason to own this video. --Valerie J. Nelson ... Read more

Reviews (25)

appealing and soothing instruction
This was the first Tai Chi video that I tried out. Basically I bought it because I liked David Carradine as an actor and thought I would enjoy his instruction style. It is a beautifully produced video with soft music and nature scenes to get you into the mood. David's teaching style is very appealing and soothing. As a beginner, I appreciated the fact that there are only nine moves to learn and that they are repeated on both sides of your body for even development.

While I really enjoyed the teaching and music, I did find it somewhat difficult to learn some of the moves because you are watching for the most part from the front and have to reverse the moves to be going the same direction as the instructor and students. Another thing is that David is teaching the Chen style, which I found difficult to find on another video for further study (that was before I found amazon.com.) I tried a few more Tai Chi videos and found the one that was the easiest to follow was the Tai Chi for Health with Terrence Dunn. He has a video on both the long and short form of Yang style Tai Chi. His instruction is excellent and slow, you view him from two angles simultaneously, and you get 108 positions in the long form which should keep you busy and you will not have to spend more money on a Tai Chi video for quite some time.

Easy to follow at first....
I was encouraged by the beginner pace when I first began viewing this tape, but I found that as the video progressed, the movements were more difficult to follow. I am very familiar and comfortable with Chi Kung and was very interested in learning a Tai Chi form. I consider myself well coordinated and a fast learner. I've heard that you can't really learn Tai Chi from a video, but with my hectic schedule, I'm still hopeful I'll find the right video.

This is the best!
I checked this video out of the library once when I was having severe muscle stiffness. I'm a mesomorph, and tend to get very musclebound when I train. When I saw it for sale, I had to have it!

The workout is not at all strenuous, but is excellent for joints, flexibility, and muscle tone. I like to use it in combination with Rodney Yee's "Yoga Conditoning for Athletes," on days when I don't train. I also recommend this tape to sedentary people, because the gentle, no-impact moves are excellent for circulation and stress relief --- plus they feel great!

If you're interested in learning classical Tai Chi as a martial art, the best thing to do is find a good (live) instructor. However, if you're looking for gentle exercises to improve flexibility, circulation, and muscle condition, this is one of the best workouts you can get.

Possibly a motivating tape for anyone with an illness
I am about half way through this tape. The video starts off with a testimonial from a woman who feels that tai chi helped her beat cancer. David claims various moves should cure or prevent various ailments and keep specific organs healthy. If you have an illness, this might be a very motivating tape because you certainly will not feel alone and you may develop a re-affirmed feeling of hope and motivation.

My main objective was to relieve back pain. I liked the first two sections of the first tape better for this purpose. The rest of the first tape is proving difficult to follow. Kinda of like learning dance steps without being able to see the instructors feet.

Great for Everybody.
I've had this video sitting around for about a year now and just recently decided to check it out. I'm very happy with it, and look forward to my routine every day. Yes, as others have pointed out, there are 9 movements and it does take a week or two to get each of the movements down and in good form, but once you do, this little workout produces great results. The only thing I wish is that they had spent more time at the beginning of the video demonstrating each of the movements because it is hard to coordinate them, but that's a minor complaint. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A great pilates workout
I recommend this dvd for anyone that wants to tone their whole body. The instructor is fun, she is full of positive energy and is constantly encouraging you to keep up the good work.This dvd has a great total body workout.The dvd has five 10 minute segments.These segments consist of: abs, buns and thighs, body sculpt, total body burn, and pilates for flexiblity. I really enjoy this workout and have seen results.

One of my Favorites!
This is a great DVD - Each of the 5 segments is fantastic. I love that you can customize your own work out. You can feel your muscels stretching and toning at the same time. Lara Hudson is so graceful and instructs so well.

Fantastic and Effective!
I found this video to be very effective.I've had it now for almost a week and after the first 3 days I could already feel my abs and core getting stronger.I, personally, am concentrating on separate routines at a time, but I do squeeze in that incredible flexibility set which is great for relaxing.I feel so good for finally buying a pilates video...especially this one.I couldn't have done any better.

Great for Beginners or Anyone
I really have enjoyed this DVD, she is easy to understand and her intructions and constant body check reminders are great! I have about 20 pounds to lose so there are one or two individual moves I can't do yet, but I will eventually. This whole 10 minute series is GREAT!

Excellent
This has become one of my most used DVDs.I like all the segments, and love being able to tack on the ab segment to a weight workout which has trad abwork (yuck..).But my fave segment is the pilates stretch for flexibility.It is yummy.I tack it on to practically everything, except yoga.Most weight workouts have abysmal stretching, and this 10 minute segment covers the whole body and leaves you feeling really relaxed and opened.Love it!Hope she comes out with more workouts soon..... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I have to say I wanted to hate this video
I have to say I wanted to hate this video. I mean David Carradine, b-movie actor, chinese wannabe, 1970's kung-fu guy ...who would have thought this video would be anything other than a joke. But....I was forced to eat my words, and feelings. The video, most likley do to Arnold Taiam and his direct connection to Real Chi Gong and Kung Fu, actually make a good , easy to follow, video that is more than benificial to the viewer than 90 percent of the other videos ive seen on the topic.
There are a few glitches I do have to say, as when David isn't really preforming the moves as his teacher is, and also how he doesn't always tell you he's changing side (from right to left or vice versa) but then you could argue that was done on purpose to keep the viewer "in the class"...hmm... well none the less if you want to get your foot in the door with either Tai Chi or Chi gong, and you want a tape you can use every day, to give you that in class feeling... you can't go wrong with this one!

Good going Goldhil...keep it up !

Maybe if they make a Ninja workout they can get Michel Dudikoff to host it -- i mean its not like he's been in much lately.

Kung Fuy
This guy really irks me; always trying to pass himself off as a Martial Artist just because he starred in the TV series "Kung Fu". He's a joke in the Martial arts community. His forms are atrocious, and his advice should never be listened to.

David Carradine's Tai Chi for the Body and Mind
This 2 tape set is an excellent introdution to Tai Chi Chuan by David Carradine. Well photographed and expertly choreographed; Mr. Carradine leads the viewer on a brief and simple (And very beneficial) calming workout that leaves one relaxed and at the same time, invigorated. An excellent companion video set to Mr. Carradine's Tai Chi for Beginners and Chi Kung Workout. The viewer will get that close knit one on one feeling with Mr. Carradine, and feel that this workout was created just for them. Excellent job David. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Who hasn't had the dream of being a tap dancer? Bonnie Franklin, formerly with Donald O'Connor and a tap dancer since the age of 9, makes your dream come true--at least in your living room. Franklin is a warm, motivating and skillful teacher, and she obviously loves tap dancing. The former TV sitcom star leads you through your first steps, appropriate for the two-left-feet among us. Later sections get progressively more complex. Learn a basic tap step, then another, practice and practice, and put them together. Before long, you're dancing complete routines. The video runs 86 minutes, but Franklin suggests you stop and practice a section until you're proficient rather than trying to get through it all at once.

This is a dance-instruction video, not an exercise video. When you get skilled enough to dance the combinations and routines, you'll get a workout, but at first, it will be more like a drill. The video was produced in 1984, but it's not outdated, and the production is high quality. This is a popular video and lots of fun! --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Love to tap, and love this video!
I have had this tape for over a year, and I still use it for exercise and I LOVE to tap! Bonnie Franklin does a great job of teaching. I also have a few other tap tapes that are just so hard to follow. Bonnie can take a beginner, teaches it slowly, speeds you up a little in easy routines, and then gets you to a faster routine with some time steps. I FINALLY, after a month or so, of really doing it daily, I was able to keep up to her pace! I joined a tap class after that, and when I did my "little routine" from Bonnie's tape, I was really tapping! (The girls in my class thought I had a lot more tap lessons than I actually did!) I had some tap in my background, but she really helped a "rusty hoofer"! Now, WHEN is she going to do another? Some of the tap tapes out there are done by great dancers, but they just cannot teach! Bonnie Franklin has a great way of teaching, and if you stay with it, she'll definitely have anyone who wants to, tapping! C'mon Bonnie, please do another tap video. I've played this one sooo much, I'm tired of it, and can do ALL the routines by heart! Thank you!

...EXCELLENT
I've never danced in my life, but I decided to learn tap dancing because I'm very much into drama and I plan to audition for the show "A Chorus Line." Earlier before buying any tapes, I thought I was a hopeless case and had no chance of getting in. However, I bought this tape and after going through it just a few times, I am a confident tapper! Bonnie Franklin is excellent, as she works at a good pace and knows which steps to repeat and which ones not to. The different angles that the camera zooms in on are great and very helpful.. I would recommend this tape to anyone and everyone-- its just great.

Best Tap Video Yet
I bought four tap dance videos and this one is definitely my favorite. Bonnie Franklin is a fantastic instructor. She gives you the confidence that with patience and practice you too will dance along with her on her three wonderful dance routines. Nothing extraordinarily complicated that you won't eventually master with practice -- Just great fun and yes, a terrific workout (even if you've never put on a pair of tap shoes before, this tape will get you dancing.

I LOVE THIS TAPE!!
I just started a beginning tap class & bought this videotape around the same time & I enjoy this video WAY more than my class! Bonnie does a great job decribing & demonstrating the steps-makes it easy to follow. She's very personable & I feel like she's actually talking to ME & really wants me to learn tap!Very motivating & FUN! By the time you're done with the tape, you've learned 3 impressive tap dance routines! You can't go wrong w/this one!

Easy & Excellent!
I've only seen 1/2 of this tape and it's great. I used to pay $14 a week for lessons and didn't have this much fun. You can go at your own pace and rewind until you have the routine down. It's very good exercise too! I highly recommend it and like everyone else, wish that there was a more recent version to go along with it. ... Read more

Product Description

Join 7-time World Martial Arts Champion Billy blanks in this Brand new Tae Bo Workout recorded live! in Los Angeles. Explode into your workout with an energized group of Tae Bo Heroes who have taken control of their lives to reach their fitness goals - just like you can. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Tai Chi video
This is a great video for anyone new to tai chi. Multiple angles are used to take into account that you are doing the movements from home. The instruction is clear and there's a great warmup segment that describes the correct way to do the exercises. I would recommend it to anyone.

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

THE EMPOWERING WORKOUT- TAI CHI
This is an excellent workout video,focusing on healing Tai Chi movements. Very good for back pain. The video is also quite visual, with nature videos playing in the background of the instructors. Well worth the money. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

Jane, Jane, What are you thinking??
If you are into serious workout, Jane Fonda is the person to start with, however, not this one! When she was forced to compete with the likes of Kathy Smith, Denise Austin, her tapes were losing their quality. At this time, everyone was making a video, actors, models, singers, old timers, ditch diggers, politicians, and you name it came out with an exercise video. Therefore, she had to compete for the almighty dollar.

This LEAN ROUTINE 60-minute videotape is comprised of her old friends from her "Lower Body Solution" which had these same goofy constantly changing dance steps. According to Jane, her biggest change is doing this on the rooftop, the night city lights in the background, hence the Broadway feel. What's is with the CHER outfit? The tape is supposed to offer us a new look, new music, and this innovative dance/exercise choreography.

DIFFICULT TO DO - Even though the exercise is considered low impact, it is very difficult to follow the steps because steps and movements like these create confusion and confusion leads one to NOT want to continue it. You would have to practice this and watch and do it faithfully a hundred times, and by then you may just be about SICK of it. The music is jazzy and not too fast, but I usually tune out the music and use my own compilations. This LOW IMPACT tape is supposed to be three fitness levels, 20 min, 40, and 60 minutes of aerobic dance steps. The segment is for beginners through advanced. ......MzRizz.

dance, dance, dance
Wow! This is my favorite video of Jane's. However, if you are don't like to dance, don't buy this one.
The first time I viewed the video, I was going to just watch it and actually try it the next time, but I just had to get up off the couch and fumble my way through. The next time I tried it, it was much easier. They repeat the steps enough times so that it is fairly easy to catch on.
The video takes place on the rooftop of her studio, outside. The others with her are mostly dressed in dance wear, not your typical workout wear, which gives you an idea of the atmosphere.
What is really nice about this video is that you can do 20 minutes, 40 minutes or the whole tape is 60 minutes.
By the end of the 40 minutes or especially 60 minutes I am dripping with sweat, but don't feel especially exhausted.
Overall, it is a very fun tape that I will use frequently.

THE BEST TAPE EVER
I LOVE this workout tape. I am not a huge fan of cardio AT ALL but this tape i can do 3 times a week thru the whole 60 minutes and im never bored.

Yes it is dancey and will require some coordination which is something to think about if you have 2 left feet. I took dance class for 10 years so thats probly why it seemed to come so easy to me.

I love Jane and her 2 co instructors are GREAT. They really keep me motivated.
If you are like me and dont really like cardio, try this tape. It doesnt feel like work though your heartrate will get up there. It can be low or hi impact depedning on how much u wanna move. Great tape.

LOVE it...10 stars, fun dance aerobics!
I have used Jane Fonda's step-aerobic and abdominal video for at least 10 years, and I don't know what made me take so long to try her other workouts. Finally I used Favorite Fat Burners from the library which includes routines for Lean Routine. I bought Lean Routine and think it fantastic: a funky, dancey workout that keeps you motivated, plus it is so much fun you are finished before you know it. LOVE the silly MTV fashions -- so many workouts take themselves too seriously and this is colorful and different. MY ONLY COMPLAINT: SEXY, hunky dancer "Michael" is replaced after the first 20 minutes by some twit who doesn't cut the mustard!! Maybe they can edit her out when and if a DVD is made and bring Michael back!!!!! HOORAY!

SUPER workout!
After many years of Lean Routine workouts, my tape finally completely failed and I need to purchase a new one.

This is a great interval workout. Yes, some of the moves are complicated at first, but stick with it. (Believe me, if I can learn them, anyone can.) Once you learn the routine, the workout really becomes fun and you can work out at your own intensity level. The instruction is excellent for low, medium, and high impact!

Their outfits are bit cheesy, but if you can get past that, you're going to love it. The Lean Routine needs to be available on DVD! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

What a fun way to get into shape
This tape is very entertaining, with a lot of fun and easy moves. I recommend it to all beginners.

Low Impact Aerobics
I just bought this tape three weeks ago and have been "doing it" 3 days a week. I have lost 3 pounds by just increasing my aerobic activity, plus Jane Fonda's steps are fun! The music is great (I'm 48½ years old). If you don't mind the over-enthusiastic entourage of people working-out with her, plus a little comedic-refief in the form of a lost young man, you'll really enjoy this workout. I look forward to dancing with Jane, and plan to increase my workouts to 5 days a week.

Great low impact workout
This is an effective low impact workout for all fitness levels. It can be done with or without wrist weights. It really works the entire body. ... Read more

Description

In this follow-up to Lift Weights to Lose Weight, Kathy Smith’s taken the best of weight training and added a twist!This time saving workout combines the core strengthening principles of Pilates with balance principles of Yoga for a total body strength-training workout. You’ll notice a big difference—not just in how you look, but in how you move, stand, and especially, how you feel! ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Fairly good with some technical problems
I have loved Kathy Smith workout tapes/discs for years. I'm glad she did this type of a workout but I have a few issues with it: 1) The lower body section relies too heavily on squats which can lead to an imbalance in muscle development, 2) the abdominal section is not that great, 3) the stretching sections are pretty fast, 4) sometimes I wished for a better view of proper positioning or technique.

Technically, there are a couple of problems with the DVD: 1) The main menu is incomplete. Hello! What's the problem here???? 2) Free stability ball workout? I don't think so. At least not on my disk and apparently not on some of the other reviewers' copies either. These kinds of mistakes are foolish in this day and age.

I did think that the upper body work out was unique and challenging. I also think that it is fairly easy to scale this workout to your fitness level. She's no nonsense, not annoying, and they keep the silly production stuff to a minimum.

I LOOOOOOOOVE this workout!
I am new to exercise, having dropped just over 50 pounds in the last year...and I've always hated exercise...until just recently. (Now I work out 5-6 days a week, and I crave it!) I started with the DVD from the weight loss program I was on, and did that for about 2 months until boredom set in. Then I discovered Kathy Smith! Lift Weight to Lose Weight is the 5th Kathy Smith video I've purchased, and is already my favorite. I love the programmable feature--one of my other DVD's was supposed to have that, and it didn't work. I love the squat section, the glute section (OH MY WORD! The glute section!), the standing upper body section (she nearly kills me on the triceps part every time); I haven't tried the stability ball workout yet, so I don't really feel qualified to comment on that. I don't know about anyone else, but when I finish this workout, I feel fantastic! I know it's making a difference...I was sore, GOOD sore for at least two days, the first few times I did the routines. I'm so glad I purchased this one--it was money well spent.

Great Workout!
I have no time to workout as a stay at home mom of two kids - 27 and 9 months old. I bought this DVD to try to get a little weight training in and in only 20 minutes I get a great workout! I love it! If I can find 20 minutes to do it anyone can. The DVD is easy to follow and Kathy is not annoying at all. I was able to find the bonus routines quite easily, you need to go to the next screen(there is a little arrow on the bottom). I like that I can do a 10 min. segment on arms and a 10 mins segment on legs and I'm done, or I can do all arms or all legs. Either way it is only 20 mins!

Finding Incomplete Menu
A couple of reviews noted that there was no stability ball workout and an incomplete menu. I had the same issue and then finally figured it out. What appears to be the main menu is actually just the first of 2 main menus. To get to the second you need to select the triangle at the bottom. This takes you to the second menu and allows you to access the stability ball workout ( which is fun).

Muscles Have Love/Hate Relationship with this DVD
Kathy Smith is one of my favorites. I like that this video challenges my muscles to the point where I can feel them the next day. If you don't enjoy the next day "good" hurt, you can use lighter weights or no weights at all.

In spite of the fact that the DVD cover boasts of a non existent 20-minute stability ball workout, I highly recommend this workout DVD. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Perhaps you're turned off of video exercises because the dance routines are too complicated. Maybe the moves are too difficult, the music too loud, the tone too "rah rah." Or maybe you're just not as supple as the kids in the videos; a high-impact workout can be deadly to bad knees. The antidote to the The Grind and Crunch aerobics is Leslie Sansone's 2 Mile Walk. This is the perfect beginner's workout for all ages and all sizes. She calls her program Walkaerobics, and while there's more low-impact aerobics than walking, her style is clear, simple, and easy to follow. The idea is that you can walk two miles in the comfort of your own home. The steps are basic--side steps, forward steps, gentle arm movements. If the grapevine is too difficult for you, Leslie encourages you to just do two side steps. If you haven't the space to walk forward four steps, she lets you know you can do it in place. Every quarter mile, the "Fit-O-Meter" flashes on the bottom of the screen, telling you how long you've walked, how far you've gone, and your speed (assuming, of course, you're keeping up with the beat of the low-key music). This provides a clear way to provide goals for yourself--as Leslie says, walk a quarter mile, walk one mile, walk whatever you're comfortable with and then fast forward to the cool down. While the testimonials at the beginning of the tape are extraneous, the workout itself is a terrific introduction to exercise, and easy enough that it just may give you the motivation to break a sweat. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (86)

Leslie's Best Exercise Video
I like several of Leslie Sansone's walking workout videos, but this is her best. From best to worst, here's how I rank the five I own:

2-MILE WALK -- her best video. Good pace, lots of variety. Not too hard for a beginner. It has a mileage gauge, which helps keep me going. (1996)

MIRACLE MILE -- a 1-mile walking workout in 15 minutes, plus a cool down and stretches. Great for those days when I haven't much time but I want to get some quick exercise in. Also good on days of cramps, if tired, etc. (1996)

WEIGHT LOSS WALK -- has 3 20-minute segments of 1 mile, 1.5 miles, and 1.5 miles. Excellent for variety. Handy for those days when I want a different distance. Segments can be done alone or combined for a wide variety of distances -- up to 4 miles. A mix of familiar and different movements. Some of the exercises are a little goofy but it's good variety. Don't like the silent gaps between songs. (1993)

Not recommended:
PLUS 40 WORKOUT -- A 2-mile workout, not nearly as good as "2-MileWalk". Has silent gaps between songs. (1989)

WALK & FIRM -- Leslie with hand weights doing safe and simple exercises. Unfortunately, I really can't get into it, and I've never finished the video. (1998)

Leslie's videos are hard enough but not too hard for people just getting back into exercise. When I use them daily (especially mornings) I find I'm much less hungry all day. I've lost 9 pounds in 3 weeks. I try to exercise daily but usually do so 4-6 times a week. I feel better, sleep better, and have better posture.

A good way to exercise
I bought this video, the "40 plus Walk Aerobics Video" and "Firm Up Fast" as a starter course. I found the "2 Mile Walk" and "Firm Up Fast" to be a good pair, for the following reasons. Leslie Sansone is a very engaging person with just the right amount of encouragement to keep me going. In the 2-mile walk, she does a better job of anticipating changes in steps and motion than in 40+, so it's easy to follow. The people in the studio with her are well synchronized, in contrast to the 40+ workout, where the disorganized bouncing and odd facial expressions (details! details!) are enough to throw me off stride. Leslie starts her count on the left foot in the two-mile walk and right foot in 40+, incidentally. As an over-weight, over-60 beginner, I can easily work up a sweat in the lunges, which occur in the first 3/4 mile and are too fast-paced for comfort, but it never gets any harder than that. I haven't noticed any weight loss after the first four weeks, but I haven't been paying much attention to dieting, either. I have noticed my pants fitting looser, however. The testimonials from happy walkers at the start of the video are annoying after the first time, but one can fast forward past them. Firm Up Fast gives easy exercises that still raise a sweat. Bottom line: I'm still motivated to use these two to exercise, and that's the main purpose.

Quick, Easy, and Painless
This is one of the BEST exercise videos I've used. It's easy on the joints but works out the whole body with a friendly group. Leslie is motivating but not loud; just offers easy encouragement. The 30 minutes goes by quickly!

Easy and Effective
This is my favorite excercise video. I've been using the VHS tape version for years, and now I have it on DVD! Naturally, the DVD version is much more convenient to use as I can go directly to the portion I need without fast forwarding or rewinding the tape when I'm done.

For a klutz like me, Leslie Sansone has been a God send. Even when I've been at my heaviest, this video was possible to do. And yet even though it is easy with no complicated dance steps, it certainly works! No matter what my level of fitness is, this video gets my heart pumping!

Leslie is upbeat, positive, and encouraging. When she smiles directly at the camera and says "Good!" I feel she is talking to me! The exercisers who join her on the video are regular people, not all of whom are at the peak of perfection, which makes me feel right at home. Finally, the exercises take very little room, so I can do the video in a spare bedroom or in the living room.

I've never gotten tired of this video, but just to expand my exercise horizons, I've also ordered several more Leslie Sansone DVDs.

Great Exercise Video
Best way to loose weight and stay in shape. Very easy to follow, and no exercise equipment really needed. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Billy Blanks is as charming and as enthusiastic as ever as he leads the exercise class in Crunch: Tae Boxing. This video is actually two workouts in one: The first class, Kickology, covers many of the basics of Tae Boxing, the jabs and kicks that make up the routines. The second class, Tae Boxing Jams, or as Billy refers to it on the tape, Tae-Bo Jams, puts all the movements together for a fast-paced martial-arts-style workout. For those who have already mastered Billy's Tae-Bo: Workout, this class doesn't introduce anything new, and in fact, the beginning class covering the basics may be frustrating for someone who wants to jump into the routines. But the second class is higher intensity and will satisfy those familiar with the Tae-Bo methodology. There's more of an emphasis on the movements as self-defense, which is one of the weaker elements of the class--using these kicks and punches as self-defense seems as if it would be incredibly difficult (and perhaps dangerous) for the novice Tae-Boxer to try. But as an alternative form of exercise--when you're tired of aerobics classes and frustrated by weight training--Crunch: Tae Boxing is a wonderful way to relieve stress, vent aggression (those punches and kicks are fun), and get your body in shape. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (105)

Why's Everyone So Down On This Video?????
I agree the tape was obviously done before Billy Blanks developed his Tae Bo technique, and there are some "moments" that are obviously not professiional. However, there is a warm-up and a cool-down inspite of what other reviews here have said, and it is possible to shape up using this video. I have lost 8 pounds and an inch and a half doing this. I find it a quick and easy way to include a work-out into my busy schedule. I do not consider myself co-ordinated at all, but had no trouble following the moves. Since I have had some leg injuries, I find it helpful to follow Billy's slower moves, yet the more intense moves are there for those who want them, as well. Who says you have to sweat to shape up? And if I want more sweat, I work-out harder. For ten dollars, and a quick work-out I think it's a good deal. I recomend it to my inexperienced YMCA members where I am receptionist, and have bought copies for our aerobics instructors, who basically have the same opinion of the video as I do.

This video is great for Tae-bo novices/Not sures
Want to try taebo, but not ready to make the heavy financial investment until you are sure? The Crunch video will work for you. Blanks patiently teaches the basics, and gives the BEGINNER (kickology) and the WORKOUT (Tae-Bo Jams) on ONE tape. For the low price, you can not go wrong. And if you outgrow it, move up to the advanced taebo tapes. I am into fitness in a major way, but I do not shell out a lot of cash until I KNOW I will like it. People are too harsh. This lets you try it in an affordable way. Get exposed to Billy Blanks without going broke!!!

yeah, its that bad
if you like tae bo because it really works you out, don't get this video...obnoxious pauses, bad music, and it hardly explains the moves or allows you to work up a sweat...i think billy was trying to get some fast cash.

Not like his others
I LOVE Crunch videos. I have also enjoyed Tae Bo and Boxing videos before because they are a great workout. I hated this one. It was slow moving in the begining and very unbalanced. Once you got to the second part, the people behind him were on auto-pilot without any cuing from Billy. After five minutes of standing there and trying to figure out what was going on, I shut it off and did one of my Crunch videos that would guarantee a good workout. I was glad I rented this from the library instead of wasting money on a disappointing video.

If you can count 1 to 8, you can do this video easily.
5'4 165
I first used this tape, and after being lazy(Got tired just getting up in the morning and taking a shower) for a long period of time I could only do the first workout. It was very easy to follow. Billy does a move 3 times slow enough for anyone to be able to follow, and then he does it quickly for 8 reps.
Almost a week later I was attemping to do both together for a total of 45 minute workout.
Well, 4 weeks later I do the whole video 2 times a day. It has become very easy although I do sweat alot. I can not wait for the other videos to come in.
I have also lost over 12 inches that is measuring one side of my body, and 8 pounds. I drink tons of water and have started eating things such as spinach, which a little while ago I would have not done. To top everything else even to top that I also quick smoking and have not gained a pound, I dropped my heart rate from high 80's to high 60's. I am on my way to a healthier life. Sure it is hard, but it is the hard things in life that make you better, stronger and happier, take the easy road and your not using yourself to your full potential, and before too long it will be even harder for you to get off your butt. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Difficult, but works
Without the warmup, it lasts about 40 minutes, and has three types of workout 1. Standing with a chair for balance, 2. Sitting, and 3. Lying down with heels on chair. There are lots of reps and the exercises are really hard, but if done with diligence and concentration can really produce results ie definition. One of the other reviewers mention it strains the knees, but I've had no problem with this (you have to really focus on putting weight on heels, not toes, so that knees don't go over the toeline). Also, I'd recommend doing this video AFTER doing abs work, so that the stomach is already taut and will support the body better while doing these exercises. I most definately recommend this video - its really effective. If you can get over the fact that its 40 minutes long and pretty difficult you'll really find that your legs feel firmer and more toned.

not too sure...
This Video is ok, but I wouldn't use it more than twice a week.Most of the excercises strain the knees if you aren't careful.It left me sore for a few days after, and I've been doing step aerobics and running for 7 years. ... Read more

Description

Did you know that the muscles of the face are attached directly to the skin that covers them? This means when facial muscles sag, the skin attached to them sags, too. Therefore, by improving facial muscle tone, you can literally lift years off your face... without cosmetics or plastic surgery! Face Aerobics is a natural facelift program with fast and easy exercises that will help you say "Goodbye" to drooping eyelids, sagging cheeks and jowls, and eliminate under eye bags and double chins! Facial muscles of all ages can build strength for a youthful, firm face. Since the muscles of the face are small, they change shape quickly- meaning dramatic results in as little as two weeks! See the reviews by media- LA Times, Shape Magazine, Susan Powter. No infomercial hype- just a capitivated media! ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Very happy with visible results
I also have purchased other facial exercise videos in the past and none have given results like Face Aerobics. I found it simple to do, and very easy to follow Judith's examples. I was feeling a bit down on my birthday last year as the years were beginning to show on my face. I have now reversed the clock with this program. It is not going to make you look 20 but it will make you look the very best for your age. By the way, a surgical face lift WILL NOT make you look 20 either. You will look unaturally stretched and different. Your skin and/or facial muscles will be damaged, and in 6 to 8 yrs you'll need another lift. With natual gentle Face Aerobics you'll simply be maintaining your results for the rest of your life. So, what would you rather do? Spend $20.00 for a safe, healthy, natural face lift or $15,000.00 for surgery with temporary results and risks?

GIVES VISIBLE RESULTS
I also have purchased other facial exercise videos in the past and none have given results like Face Aerobics. I found it simple to do, and very easy to follow Judith's examples. I was feeling a bit down on my birthday last year as the years were beginning to show on my face. I have now reversed the clock with this program. It is not going to make you look 20 but it will make you look the very best for your age. By the way, a surgical face lift WILL NOT make you look 20 either. You will look unaturally stretched and different. Your skin and/or facial muscles will be damaged, and in 6 to 8 yrs you'll need another lift. With natual gentle Face Aerobics you'll simply be maintaining your results for the rest of your life. So, what would you rather do? Spend $20.00 for a safe, healthy, natural face lift or $15,000.00 for surgery with temporary results and risks?

It really works! Thank you Miss Olivia!
I have to admit, when I saw Judith Olivia demonstrate the facelift exercises on Good Morning America, I was a bit skeptical at first. Because of health reasons, cosmetic surgery is not an option for me. So, I decided to give it a try. The results came quickly. Even my husband noticed the difference. With just a little bit of working out my facial muscles, my cheeks and jawline are lifted and my double chin is gone. Face Aerobics may seem like it's too good to be true, but it really does work.

Positive results!
I have been doing Face Aerobics for 2 years and it is a part of my daily routine. I can't begin to tell you the incredible difference it's made in my life. I feel terrific... even when I look in the mirror. My face is tight and tone. I do the eye and cheek exercises every other day since those areas are the first to show aging. I get comments all the time on how great I look. In fact, most people guess my age to be 10-15 years younger than I am. (I'm age 61) Many friends think I've had a facelift, but I keep telling them it's all Face Aerobics.

Money well spent! Thank you!
I have to admit, when I saw Judith Olivia demonstrate the facelift exercises on Good Morning America, I was a bit skeptical at first. Because of health reasons, cosmetic surgery is not an option for me. So, I decided to give it a try. The results came quickly. Even my husband noticed the difference. With just a little bit of working out my facial muscles, my cheeks and jawline are lifted and my double chin is gone. Face Aerobics may seem like it's too good to be true, but it really does work. ... Read more

Reviews (45)

This tape gives you a GREAT workout!
Hip Hop Aerobics is a wonderful workout video. Despite what others may have said, this video DOES make you sweat. It's about 30 mins long, not including the warm up and cool down. And after this, you get a 7 minute ab workout. I must warn you though, this is for people who love to dance. The routine is challenging, I must admit.And you have to have a lot of passion , strengh, and endurance to get it down. There are lots of dancers and two very good instructors that you can follow. You can use the moves in dance clubs, the music is great, but you may have to rewind and pause to get the steps down. This is a very challenging routine, but you will burn lots of calories and tone up while having fun and learning to dance. This is a must buy, along with Fat Burning Grooves.

Energizing and Fun
I bought this video about a year ago and I have been using it ever since. It is not the type of video that makes you sweat a whole lot, but once you get the moves down, you WILL get a good workout. The moves are fun and you can even use them in the clubs. Linda Nader and Eric Neis do a wonderful job at leading you through the moves and encouraging you throughout the video. This video is also very good at giving your muscles a good stretch.

Fun and motivating
Let's be honest, it's a 90's video, this is the 2000's, some things are going to be outdated. Fun and motivation are not outdated though. The workout is what you make out of it. Once you learn the moves you can make it as intense as you want. Instead of marching it out while the moves are reviewed, you can challenge yourself a little and do your own thing. Try to see how many times you can do the move fast while they break it down. It's all up to you. I always break a sweat, I always hit my target heart rate and I always have fun. This work out got me in shape once before and it will again.

Great Work Out!!
It's fun and the time goes quickly and you keep heart rate up whole video!

A little outdated
This video was made in '95 and the outfits/scenery is a little outdated. The moves are alright, there were some good and some bad... this is a video that I don't do in front of anyone! I didn't really break a sweat until about 1/4 of the way through the video. The steps are easy though, and it's not hard to follow along. The ab workout at the end is good. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Kathy Smith has been around a while in the world of fitness videos, and with good reason. Her calm, authoritative manner, flawless timing, emphasis on proper form, and responsible directions put her entire fitness series a cut above most celebrity workouts. Pregnancy Workout is no exception. Smith and five workout buddies (all of them appearing to be well past the fifth month of pregnancy) demonstrate a good 50-minute prenatal workout, with an ample warmup period, a cardio section that includes sufficient upper-body work, plenty of safe abdominal and pelvic-floor exercises, and an active relaxation period (which some avid aerobicizers may find a bit too long). Smith uses props such as chairs and pillows to allow effective exercise while maintaining an emphasis on safety and comfort.

There's also an excellent section on getting back up to working out postpartum, with a set of simple exercises that can be done within a day or two after delivery (and even a few stretches for the baby, which Smith demonstrates with her adorable infant daughter). Gynecological authorities appear in the video as well to give advice on prenatal exercise and to answer common postnatal questions on such topics as resuming exercise after a C-section and timing exercise around breastfeeding. The baby-block and teddy-bear graphics are a little too cutesy, and those used to working out to high-energy Top 40 hits may find the music extremely bland, but the exercise itself is always the focus, making this one of the best pregnancy workouts available. --Barrie Trinkle ... Read more

Reviews (70)

The Ultimate Birth Preparation Workout
This video is the best childbirth preparation you can do! As an avid workout enthusiast, I wanted a video that I could safely do as my doctor advised no more jumping or step workouts after my 3rd month of pregnancy.

The Kathy Smith Pregnancy video has a low impact aerobic segment followed by a superior toning section; a postnatal mini-workout with exercises for after your baby arrives is also included. As my husband says, giving birth is a major physical event that you must train for! After doing this video religiously 3-4 times a week for the last 6 months of my pregnancy, I had a textbook labor and a wonderful delivery. I even escaped the dreaded low back pain and swollen ankles which I attribute to staying physically active with this video. I was able to utilize a lot of the moves (squats, etc.) during labor and delivered a healthy son without drugs of any kind! Because I recovered from the birth quickly, I was better able to cope with those exhausting first few weeks home with my new son. I highly recommend this video to all my pregnant friends!

It's old, but I still found it helpful in 2003
This workout has been filmed during Kathy's second pregnancy. It includes a warm-up or "energizer" as Kathy calls it, as well as 3 aerobics segments which are fun and easy to follow. There is a separate segment for toning the legs, arms (light weights are optional) and even exercises for the pregnant women's abs. I've used this video workout in my second pregnancy and found it very helpful. It's true, it is quite old and could be dissmised as outdated (although I for one am more interested in what a workout itself has to offer rather than complain about the music or outfits), but I think the exercises and advice on the video are still standing today.Kathy looks great and is inspiring as always. And the workout works! It worked for me, kept me in much better shape with my second pregnancy than with my first (when I was younger and also did other pregnancy video workouts), it helped me understand better how exercise improves our pregnant body and the postpartum tips given by Kathy were appreciated as well.

Terrible, terrible
It is soo outdated. The moves are old. The outfits are even worse. Notably, only Kathy wears a decent outfit, the others are clothed in telly-tubbie style garb. Watch out for the horrible attempt at rap "do the preggo dance" (intended as a comic relief during the workout). Just awful!

It was initially a VHS so it doesnt have the functionality of the dvd.

Be warned.

Retro is Cool!
Who cares that the video is dated? Pilates were hard enough for me when I was not pregnant, so when I was pregnant, the Kathy Smith video was a perfect alternate workout - esp. on those cold winter days when sidewalks were icy and getting over to the pool was a hassle. It's not particularly challenging, but overall I would imagine that a little bit of movement, some muscle work and getting your heart pumping can only be helpful to you and your growing baby. I found it especially safe and appropriate for my final trimester. Plus, it's one of the few non-yoga/pilates pregnancy videos out there!

outdated, not as safe as you need it
I love Kathy Smith, but this DVD should be off the market. i cannot see how a 15 year video is still safe for prego women, so many things have changed with doctors that i do not feel comfortabel doing this retro video. The outfits made me laugh, and the cheesy moves were a hoot, but i didnt buy this for a laugh, so its not worth it to try it again and again, Fitmama is so much better. Sorry, but Kathy is not my prego teacher of choice. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

As good as Pilates workout at the gym!
I have been taking Pilates classes for 6 months at the local gym, I also own a bunch of tapes and books, but I have to admit this DVD is my favorite! Kristin's instructions are very comprehensible, the workout is perfectly coordinated so that you work your whole body in short period of time. Just be ready to provide your own soundtrack, since the original one seems out of place!
I would highly recommend MTV Pilates DVD for for people with all levels of fitness. You might want to check out MTV's 3 DVD pack with Pilates, Yoga and Power Yoga workouts as well.

FABULOUS Ab Workout
I've tried several pilates and yoga dvds and this one stands out. I don't care about the music, but really, it's much better than the music is on the Method dvds. And I think the music as well as the scenery could stand the test of time compared to other workout tapes. There is nothing more frustrating than renting a DVD that is only one year old and having the look and feel of it outdated. I learned many new pilates moves on this dvd and while I do understand what people mean when they say this isn't for beginners - I say, who cares!? One of my biggest complaints about yoga and pilates tapes is that I am so sick of people talking down to their audience. The instructors waste minutes of my time telling me how to do a position that I already know. This dvd starts off fast and gets me excited to workout. I'd rather have a dvd with moves that are unfamiliar to me that I can watch many times and never grow tired of it; rather than a dvd or tape where I get bored because they're all the same as the rest after just one hour of working out. I highly recommend this dvd.

It's not that great..
This was just OK, it wasn't the best. I thought that it went too fast, and the transitions weren't smooth. The music isn't even that great, and you'd think that since this is a MTV production, they'd provide some quality workout music. However, I did like how they had three individuals performing each exercise in different levels: beginner, intermediate, and advance. There are better pilate workout dvds and tapes out there.

4 Stars without the Music
I love the MTV Yoga workouts because the music is especially interesting. I thought the MTV Pilates workout would also feature music to really motivate me into a new level of fitness.

My dissapointment was immediately apparent. The music? What happened to the music? In previous workouts the music is at a higher volume than Kristin McGee's voice and in this workout the music is barely apparent. You also have to endure advertising at the beginning of the workout. I wanted to get right to working out and prefer the advertising to be at the end of the workout so I don't have to watch it each and every time. (Yes, forwarding is an option.)

The setting is the same as MTV Power Yoga: The beautiful mountains of Arizona. The mats are blue with a lavender center. All the colors seem to be either blue, lavender or burnt orange and mustard yellow. This creates a very natural setting against the mountains and slate/stone rooftop type garden.

I love the outdoor setting.

I love the instruction - Kristin's instruction is precise and she leads you through all the main Pilates exercises.

MUSIC: I can't really hear the music unless