Amazon.com

Billed as the "future of fitness" and hawked by numerous celebrities, Billy Blanks's Tae-Bo actually deserves much of the hype it's receiving. A mixture of boxing punches and martial arts kicks, Tae-Bo is fun and easy. One of the best elements of this two-tape set is that the first tape (which is 40 minutes long), Tae-Bo: Instructional, lays out the movements you need to successfully complete a workout. Once you've mastered the steps, you won't have to fast-forward through half the tape to get to the workout, nor will your workout be slowed down by the repeated lessons. After you feel comfortable with the movements (and they're really quite easy to follow; nothing too complicated to trip you up), you're ready to move on to Tae-Bo: Basics, a 27-minute workout (5 minutes of warm-up, 18 minutes of Tae-Bo, and 4 minutes of cool-down) that will have your heart pounding and your body sweating. The only downside to this tape is the less-than-exciting music. Blanks, a seven-time World Martial Arts champion, is a superb instructor, providing encouragement and careful instruction (if you don't know by the end of the tape to hold in your stomach, that's no one's fault but your own). Not only is Tae-Bo great exercise for all levels, but the punches and kicks are wonderful for working out stress and aggression. This is the aerobics exercise video for people who are bored by aerobics. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (796)

Terrific workout, but a little outdated...
I must say that I love Billy Blanks and his whole program! I bought these tapes and they sat in the shrinkwrap for a year while I was pregnant and on bed rest. Two months after delivering, I pulled them out and popped them into the VCR...WOW! I have done just about every exercise video out there, Jane Fonda, Susan Powter, Reebok, you name it and I have probably tried it. Taebo is terrific, and these tapes were a good introduction to taebo. I used them for 3 weeks to help me get back into the exercise groove. However, I really feel like they do not fully represent the taebo technique. I learned a lot more about correct form when I purchased the "Live" tapes and then started doing taebo tv through my dish. I wouldn't recommend that you buy these particular tapes, but I give taebo and Billy Blanks 5 stars. I have lost 10 pounds and 4 inches since beginning in February. Billy Blanks inspires me to reach within myself and put all my spirit and focus into my workouts. Please, please, do an instructional video first before trying to do the regular workout. If you pay attention and listen to what Billy says, this will keep you from hurting yourself. I have a bad knee that precludes me from doing step aerobics or Jazzercise, but I have never had any trouble with taebo. I am sold on this workout folks!

Great for a Beginner
I bought my tapes from the TV ad, which include the Instructional, Basic, Advanced and 8-Minute workouts. I was a real couch potato looking for motivation. Billy pulled me right off the couch and onto my feet. It took me months just to get through the basic workout without wheezing. The set offered here are the instructional and basic. They're great for someone like me who exercised rarely or never because the pace allows you to advance your fitness level as you are able. I read some of the other reviews that think the workout isn't long enough or fast paced enough. They would be more satisfied with the Advanced, 57 minute workout. The Advanced video's toned athletes are sweating buckets and sometimes can't keep up! Unfortunately, it does not seem to be avaiable separately yet. However, if you need a slow buildup and a great motivator, Billy is your guy! By the way, I've progressed after four months to the advanced tape and I feel great!

quick
received my order quickly and in great condition. THANKS

Unbelievable
I'm still in shock about my results from this video. Over a period of 4 months I just about killed myself, but came out on top. The amusing thing is that I didn't really lose any weight (I think I traded fat for muscle) but I went from a size 14 to a size 8 (ladies, all of you know how huge that is). These tapes are gratifying and an incredible workout. That 30 minutes of Tae Bo really shows you what you're made of. Billy Blanks is an excellent instructor and, after a little practice, the moves are not at all complicated. I highly recommend this tape.

Something Different
I wanted a different way to do cardio instead of the standard aerobics. This video is not alot of jumping around but using other methods to get your heart rate up like kicking your legs and punching which really works up a sweat! Personally, I don't like alot of jumping in my exercise which is why it works for me and will probably work for you! ... Read more

Reviews (78)

Hard, but fun
I hadn't realized how out of shape I was until I followed along with this video. At first, there were many exercises I simply couldn't complete, but I made sure to keep moving, and stick with it till the end. The 52 minutes go by quickly.

The best part about this video is that the exercises are easy to figure out. I normally hate aerobics, but the aerobic warm up here is simple and gets the heart pumping right away.

Greg Smithey is friendly and encouraging. I like the ordinary-looking people behind him who are able to keep up without grimacing in pain; that gave me hope for myself. You WILL feel the burn while doing these exercises, but just keep trying and do the best YOU can. They will eventually get easier, and you'll like the results.

It really works
Buns of steel by Greg Smithey is just wonderful. I have worked out my whole life at home trying every video that came out starting with Jane Fonda videos and nothing gave me the results this tape did. While working with the video, Greg gives funny and encouraging comments that really put a smile on my face and made me want to keep going. It is really hard when you first start out if you are not in shape, but just do a little bit of each exercise and add more each time you do it and you will get where you want to be. It is my absolute favorite! It starts out with a short arobic workout to warm up your muscles that also works on your arms. It then you go into the entire leg and [back] workout. You will feel it in every muscle. Greg is very thorough. It finishes with a stomach and cool down stretch. It is just perfect and very enjoyable due to Greg's humor. Just try it, you will love it!

Excellent total body workout- you WILL get results!
This is a really old video, but the only thing I feel is lacking is that it is not available on DVD. Hopefully it will be sometime- I have tried other videos but this one is simply the best. First of all, this is a tough workout. You will be sore until you get used to it! The beginning aerobic workout gets your heart rate up and is over before you know it- then you are lying on the floor working outer thighs, inner thighs, buns, and then a short abs segment.

It's hard to do the entire tape at first. Do what you can and each time you use the tape you will be able to do a few more repetitions. Be sure to listen to the instructor and use proper form. I jog and use this tape along with Denise Austin's Super Stomach and have seen REALLY great results (both tapes are old!). I firmed up, lost my extra pounds, and got rid of cellulite. I had to work at it and it wasn't easy, but I did this tape 3-4 times a week consistently and obtained a smaller firmer [posterior] and firm, lean thighs. I highly recommend this tape! I never get bored with it and have owned it for about 10 years now.

Don't let its cheesiness fool you- this is a very effective and fun tape. If you really want to get in shape, you can, and I will just repeat that I had very good results from couch potato to fit, using Buns of Steel, Denise Austin's Super Stomach, and walking/jogging. I do Buns of Steel 3-4 times a week, walk daily, jog a mile daily, and Super Stomachs daily. I have many other fitness videos but this is my favorite, easiest to maintain, and most-results-getting routine!

Buns of Concrete
I purchased this video a from Amazon and I Love it!! It is a tad bit old, but the results are what really count. You really feel a burn when you do these exercises and its very low impact.

I recommend this VHS for people who are pear-shaped like me and need to really tone the lower half of your body.

THE BEST
I've joined all the clubs and tried all tapes. I have gone down to a size 6 from a size 10 since starting this tape (and cutting down carbs) about four weeks ago. He's goofy, but knows what he's doing and targets those hard to target areas perfectly. I'm very happy and I highly recommend this tape! ... Read more

Reviews (120)

Unbelieveable, amazing results!
First of all, I hate exercise....can't stick to anything and be consistent! About 10 years ago, my Mom introduced me to Callanetics. I remembered getting amazing results from it, and decided to try it yet again. These exercises are quite difficult at first, but the results are incredible and the key word is FAST! You SEE the results much quicker than any exercise or weightlifting. In 5 sessions, my stomach was much flatter, thighs tighter, and I could see muscles in my upper arms that I never knew were there. My husband even commented on how great I looked, and I felt that way too! I began Callanetics to get in shape for a wedding in Las Vegas...I see the pictures of myself and can't believe it's me! My body is so much fitter and tighter than it's ever been. I no longer need the tape as I have basically memorized it, but use it now and then. I highly recommend this for smaller framed people (I'm 5 ft). It lengthens your muscles and tones without making you bulky. It also makes us appear taller and leaner. The accompanying book is a great way to review the whole program and the before and after pictures are amazing....a must-see for beginners, if those pictures don't get you motivated, nothing will! I love Callan and thank her so much for Callanetics, an exercise I can stick with for life!

Began @ 14
My mom first turned me on to this video when I was 14. I read the box cover to her and exclaimed "10 years younger in 10 hours, I'll look 4". But seriously I've found that after high school I worked and went to school full time so there was no time for exercising. Three years later I looked at my backside in the mirror and gasped. It had to go. I couldn't fit into my winter jeans or summer shorts. My womanly hips had appeared and I had donuts and pastry dimples. Remembering this wonderful video I have begun a workout schedule of biking and outdoor climbing once a week with Callanetics 3 times a week and already after three weeks I can see such a difference that I know I'm only hours away from my goal.
I've heard people say it's too hard and that they don't see results. 1)They need to keep trying. It takes a while to understand what it means to "round" or relax certain muscles to get the best stretch. 2)People that jerk or get frustrated have to understand that they are being too impatient and should do fewer reps and the less difficult version to build up to the point were they don't jerk. Thank you Callan Pinckney for this video. By the way there is no substitute for this workout. I've tried others and none have worked as quickly for me.

Don't be fooled by the dated look of this great workout!
Your first impression of this video will probably be that it looks out-of-date: the set, clothes, and even instructor Callan herself all scream 1980s. If you can get past that, however, you will find that this tape still offers a great workout for today's exercisers. Callan's method can be compared to traditional ballet barre work, Pilates, Lotte Berk, and even yoga, and in fact it borrows a little from each of these areas. The focus is on very small movements--often just 1-2 inches--combined with a high number of repetitions--sometimes up to 100.

Callan begins the workout with standing stretches, with the first one looking a little like yoga's sun salutations. Also included in this section area side stretches and an arm stretch that you will definitely feel in your triceps for days afterward. Next, Callan moves to the floor for several exercises for the "stomach"--what's now more commonly referred to as abs work. These exercises are very similar to Pilates, with the first and last in particular being almost exactly like "The Hundred," a traditional first Pilates exercise. Unlike in Pilates, however, Callan instructs her students NOT to pull in their stomachs, which goes against the emphasis in Pilates to keep a firm midsection. These exercises are also quite strenuous on the neck, but at the end of the tape, there is a note that the hands can be kept behind the head if needed to support the neck.

Following this, it's back to standing exercises using a ballet barre. A sturdy, high-backed chair can be substituted here (which is what I used), but Callan also shows how even a low piece of furniture would work. This series includes stretches for the legs and hips and then further standing work for the thighs and buttocks. Following this, Callan returns to the floor, and (still using the bar), does several additional moves for the hips and buttocks. The workout ends with several forward-bend type stretches as well as a few more strenuous moves for the pelvis.

Callan is a supportive teacher who is constantly instructing you to only do what you can without pushing your body too much. She gently corrects her students on the proper form while also offering motivating comments about their progress. This classic program offers a nice change from today's exercise videos; at the end of the workout, you will likely feel long, lithe, and very proud of yourself.

The Only One that REALLY works!
There are many reviews already on the details of what this tape is all about, so I won't repeat what they've already said, BUT what IS worth repeating is how amazing these exercises really are! Yes, they can be difficult at first,(especially those pelvic rotations!) but they do become easier after the first few times and best of all, they really work. You will actually see a difference in your figure after the first few hours. I have gone from a tight size 14 to a loose/baggy size 12 in just 9 weeks. Best of all,I feel much better, my posture is better and I have less tension in my neck and shoulders. (I sit at a desk/computer a good part of my day).
If there is one thing I wish there were more emphasis on it would be the stomach exercises. I would like to have had more of them, but I have been using this tape on and off since it first came out in the 80's and I can tell you from experience that if you learn how to do the moves correctly and don't force yourself to do more than your body is able to do, you WILL have a very strong, lean, tight body. I look forward to having mine back again and I feel that I'm well on my way.
This tape is absolutely worth the time and money that you will spend and best of all, IT REALLY WORKS!

Awesome!
This is for any level because she suggests you go at your own pace. You'll be sore a day or two after. I just bought this tape and love it already. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Billy Blanks called this workout Advanced, he wasn't fooling around. This 57-minute workout will have your heart racing, your pulse pounding, and your sweat glands working overtime. The familiar moves from Tae-Bo Instructional and Basic are here, but Blanks has put a little razzmatazz on them, adding slightly more complicated combinations that should be fairly easy to master if you've completed the first two tapes. The new moves--which combine Tae-Bo's patented mix of boxing punches and martial arts kicks--make this video much more exciting, but they also considerably raise the bar on the difficulty factor. In addition to the short warm-up, the cool down, and the 30 minutes of Tae-Bo, Advanced Tae-Bo also includes 18 minutes of muscle-crunching floor work. You know you're in trouble when even the guys in the tape have trouble keeping up. As Blanks says, your "butt should be on fire," and if you need to, "go ahead and scream a little." But, as always, Blanks is a supportive coach, reminding you to go at your own pace (stop for water if necessary), yet encouraging you to push yourself as much as you can. The music is still cheesy, and some of the camera work somewhat confusing (the overhead angle makes the body positioning in the floor work hard to follow). However, this is a terrific workout when you're ready to take Tae-Bo to the next level; just make sure you have truly mastered the first two tapes before attempting Advanced. A 20-minute sneak preview of Tae-Bo Live is included with this video. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (117)

Good exercise tape, especially for your lower body
I mainly run outside for my workouts, but Tae Bo is great for rainy days when I can't leave the house, or days when I'm lacking motivation to exercise and I think to myself, "I'll just pop this tape in for a little while and do it as long as I feel like." I always end up doing the entire tape! The time goes by so fast during this workout. Billy Blanks doesn't spend too long on any one exercise, so you don't get bored, but you definitely are breathing hard and "feeling the burn." It is especially toning for your legs. Often, after a run, I just fast forward to the latter part of the tape to do the leg toning exercises to round out my workout. I will go through them once, rewind, then do another set. My butt is looking rounder and firmer these days. I recommend this tape for a good sweat and for great tone.

Fantastic workout!
After my few months of watching the tv ads for Billy Blanks Tae-Bo videos, my husband ordered them for me for a Christmas present. I was ever so thrilled and after going the steps of instructional, basics and then advanced I was hooked. I started to see the big difference in myself. I was losing weight, toning and most of all feeling better about myself. Through Billy Blanks I have finally been able to acheive what I had tried for many years - to gain self discipline, I have never been able to stick to any one exercise regimen for very long. I have the machines and many other videos but I think it's the way Billy Blanks gets me going throughout this advanced video that is what I needed. Oh, I do yell at you Billy when I get down on those floor exercises. But I do push myself to get through them and the results are here to stay. The 8 minute workout is a super "quickie" when my morning is rushed. Thank You!

A workout for martial artists
As a martial artist for 5 years, I have high recommendations for this video. The key is to adjust it to your own capabilities. Some of the moves are VERY high impact (for example, the jumping front kick) and will wreck your knees or ankles if you do them repeatedly. In addition, some of the moves are so fast they don't allow you to focus on the muscles you're working out. As long as you take this video at your own pace, it's great!

For self-defense, though, this video isn't worth much. If you're looking for martial arts skills, sign up for a martial arts class. If you like Tae Bo, you'll LOVE martial arts, and you'll learn self defense techniques to boot!

Good workout, but really annoying problems
Overall, I'd say this is a good workout. The cardio is intense and you really get the chance to tone your muscles. It's a fast way to work out your entire body. However... the sets are really uneven and proper form is often sacrificed for speed. Billy goes off on "inspirational" tangents while you're left doing multiple extra sets. I've been doing this tape five days a week for the last six months and have actually seen a noticeable difference in the toning on one side of my body! That's how off kilter the sets are. Also, there are several moves where he takes you into "double-time" where you are asked to do the move so quickly, any hope for maintaining proper form flies out the window. Even the people on the tape have poor form during these sets. I usually maintain "single-time." I keep better form, get the same results, and minimize the risk of injury. Even with these problems, I still like Tae Bo and I'm still doing the workout (I've just switched sides so I can even out my muscle tone)! I wouldn't recommend buying this Advanced Workout but maybe the "Live" version is better... I don't know, but it might be worth a try. Hopefully they've worked through some of the kinks.

Advanced is an Awesome workout!
This workout is awesome! After the cardio part, which is about 30 minutes, I had an average heart rate of 181!! After the floor exercises (about 25 minutes) my heart rate had an average of 161!! Anyway, this makes me sweat even more than I do when I run and seems to hit all areas of my body--instead of the same areas when I run. Anyway, you won't be disappointed! ... Read more

Reviews (42)

Great beginner/intermediate workout!
The 8-Minute Abs video is a great way to get started with a home ab-workout. Instructor Jaime Brenkus is excellent with motivation and cue-ing. The 8 minute length of the workout fits into almost everyone's schedule. As you get in better shape, you can just do it twice for a 16-minute workout!

Got some spare time?
I am an "advanced beginner" in aerobics who has been exercising regularly for the past year-and-a-half. Until recently, I have used a daily workout shown to me by a friend who is much more experienced. The routine had excellent results for my back, legs, and rearend, but I have had a frustrating time with my stomach. I am not at all overweight, but my stomach has had too much dimension. About three months ago I decided to try a new routine for the sake of my belly and purchased the 8 minute workout because there has always been so much talk about it. The exercises in the video are challenging enough and Jaime Brenkus does wonderfully in keeping each exercise to the point without preaching. I still have some way to go with my abs, but they are becoming more and more defined. I am also surprised by how well the exercises have added muscle to the rest of my body, particularly the arms and chest. I am feeling a lot more confident now and recommend it to anyone who can spare about ten minutes of their day.

Great workout video!
I bought this video about a year ago along with the 8minute buns video. 16 minutes a day was all it took to get my body into shap. I could actually feel it working the first day after using this video. My tummy ached, my buttocks ached but a few days went by and it soon went away. Why did it ache? Because my muscles were actually being strengthed, techniques in this video works! If you haven't exercised in a long time, look out because this video gives your body a workout. For under 20 bucks and under 20 minutes a day, this workout is so much cheaper than joining a gym! Get a friend or your partner to work out with you, it's fun :) I really recommend this video pack if you want to get you're serious about getting your bod in shape for the summer. I'm a happy camper.. 8 minute abs and 8 minute buns worked for me! :)

Get That 6-Pack Back
After reading through the comments for this video, I have to agree that this is the best ab workout I have found. I played sports throughout high school and college, but now that I've graduated, I find myself going to the gym less often. This video has helped put me back on my fitness schedule and I use it as motivation to get back into the gym. The video does go by fast and I'm already beginning to see the definition in my stomach come back again. If you're looking for a quick, effective program for your stomach, I couldn't recommend anything else.

Low quality video, but high quality exercise!
I love 8 minute abs. It works, okay?

A reviewer here complains "It just seems like this video was poorly made with amateur video equipment". Yeah. It isn't in THX or Dolby Digital either, so I guess the exercises suck. I need a sharp picture and surround sound to exercise my abs!

He/She continues, "I have used the tape about 15 times and it is already showing signs of wear (i.e. ripples in the tape, as if the tracking were off)". After fifteen times I was more impressed by the ripples subtly appearing on my abdomen than the ones on the tape! There's nothing that burns like sitting up in a crunch to adjust the tracking on my VCR. :)

Honestly, after using this for a small amount of time, what happens to the tape after repeated use is moot. Speaking for myself, I have the routine memorized and can do it without even bothering with the tape anymore. Can anyone else memorize an 8 minute routine after enough use, or is it just me?

Another dude says "I really didn't notice any improvement in my ab department after a month and a half of use." How much blubber covers your abs? Do you diet well? Do you do other exercises or is "8 Minute Abs" the beginning and end of your workout? Anyone thinking this or ANY routine without a proper diet or fat burning routine (cardio) is going to miraculously make you look like the guy on the cover of the video is nuts.

In conclusion, I have found 8 minute abs to be a quick, but powerful routine to apply to my overall workout and a high protein, low carb diet. The results are unquestionable and though the producer didn't spend a lot of money making the video, you don't have to spend a lot to buy it, so what's the problem? This is a very worthy routine for anyone who is serious about developing their abs, but smart enough to realize that it is not going to be the single reason for the results it helps you achieve. You won't find any tape here that will. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Billed as the "future of fitness" and hawked by numerous celebrities, Billy Blanks's Tae-Bo actually deserves much of the hype it's receiving. A mixture of boxing punches and martial arts kicks, Tae-Bo is fun and easy. One of the best elements of this four-tape set is that the first tape (which is 40 minutes long), Tae-Bo: Instructional, lays out the movements you need to successfully complete a workout. Once you've mastered the steps, you won't have to fast-forward through half the tape to get to the workout, nor will your workout be slowed down by the repeated lessons. After you feel comfortable with the movements (and they're really quite easy to follow; nothing too complicated to trip you up), you're ready to move on to Tae-Bo: Basics, a 27-minute workout (5 minutes of warm-up, 18 minutes of Tae-Bo, and 4 minutes of cool-down) that will have your heart pounding and your body sweating. Next comes Advanced, a 57-minute workout that will have your heart racing, pulse pounding, and sweat glands working overtime. There's razzmatazz on the moves, with slightly more complicated combinations that should be fairly easy to master if you've completed the first two tapes. This video seriously raises the bar on the difficulty factor.

In addition to the short warm-up, the cool-down, and the 30 minutes of Tae-Bo, Advanced Tae-Bo also includes 18 minutes of muscle-crunching floor work. You know you're in trouble when even the guys in the tape have trouble keeping up. Make sure you have truly mastered the first two tapes before attempting this one. The 8-Minute Workout is a highly compacted workout (actually 14 minutes long when you include warm-up and cool-down) for those days when you're too short on time for Basic or Advanced. While the 8-minute idea is compelling, it's not an adequate substitute for the longer workouts. Blanks, a seven-time World Martial Arts champion, is a superb instructor, providing encouragement and careful instruction (if you don't know by the end of the tape to hold in your stomach, that's no one's fault but your own). The only downside to these tapes is the less-than-exciting music. Not only is Tae-Bo great exercise for all levels, but the punches and kicks are wonderful for working out stress and aggression. This is the aerobics exercise video for people who are bored by aerobics. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (182)

Literally
Living in New England, my running routine has somewhat gone down the tubes due to the frigid weather. Plus my class schedule has so many 8-5 days in it that I don't have time to hit the gym. SO, I decided just after Thanksgiving to start doing a workout tape regime that would kill less time and still keep me in shape.

My first tape...Callanetics. Great sculpting workout, but no cardio. The immediate first thought...Tae Bo. I have a lot of friends who sang the praises of Billy Blanks, but I had yet to see myself what cardio kickboxing was all about. I bought the DVD version (1) because it was actually cheaper than the tapes and (2) had all the tapes rolled up into one slim package that would probably last longer anyway.

I did what the instructions told me and did the introductory workout first. This teaches you the basics of the moves he likes to incorporate into the routines. Although I feel that he could have explained some of the positions better (i.e., when you do the roundhouse kicks, turn the foot you're standing on OUT...it will help twist your hips down so you can lift your leg as high as possible while working out your gluteal muscles...he doesn't emphasize this, just tells you to keep your hand on your hip and kick to the side), you find out his workout is relatively simple in technique. However, he warns you that he CAN and WILL make it more PHYSICALLY difficult as you progress.

I then advanced to the basics workout. Being an avid runner and gym rat, I found this to be a pretty decent workout. Built up a respectable sweat and felt empowered...just pictured kicking ex-boyfriends in the face. :) Plus, I surprised myself with how fierce I can feel...really lets out stress and remains fun.

The advanced workout...whoa. Not for the faint of heart. 45 minutes of cardio with many many many fast sequences of kicks and jabs that will make you feel like a puppet being yanked in eight different directions...it's great. :) Then, the floor work...you probably have never done so many doggy-lifts in your life! Killer! :) I highly recommend this DVD!

Taebo will get you going!
I have been doing power yoga, jump roping, running, power walking, some martial arts (at studios) and a little weight lifting and I couldn't even get toned. I was still getting slightly depressed and I felt my motivation go down. BUT then I luckily found Taebo. Billy Blanks is this incredible motivator that really gets you going. Before I got to an advanced level I started to see stomach muscle tone and overall lean muscle tone--it's really amazing. Yes, you should spend an extra 15 min of stretching prior and after each workout, but if Billy Blanks were to have included a stretch out in the videos than it would have been boring. Yes, the music [is bad]. However, you can get over those petty concerns if you take your fitness goals seriously. Don't whine, get off your seat and just do it! I'm now doing Taebo 5X a week and cardio 1X a week--despite the fact that I have recently recieved radiation treatment for Grave's disease (and will require a life time of meds). You can transcend any emotional pain in your life by your pure determinism!

They could have picked better music!!!
I love TaeBo, but it's a little difficult to get pumped up to elevator hiphop! Please! Overall, the workout is awesome. I saw results in 2 weeks, and it makes me feel strong, sexy, and empowered (I just picture kicking and punching my ex-husband in the face when I need that extra boost! LOL). This is worth the money. Maybe when you get the moves down, you could crank up some real music to kick-butt to!

ordered and e-bay cancel
I order this DVd for $20 two days later E-bay cancel my order an
said they had no more. Now I look on e-bay they have the same
taebo DVD at a higher cost???Is this a rip off or what?

Yes, It Really Works
I have had to work to control my weight since puberty. I have been working out since I was 16 yrs. old and of all the things I have tried, I have never gotten into shape as fast as I did with Tae-Bo. About a month and a half after I began the workout, people were asking me what I was doing. I was so pleased with the results! And not only do you lose weight quick, but you feel so much better! Strong and energized. I thought what I payed was pretty inexpensive after seeing what it did for me. ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Love it! Love it! Love it!
I have always been self-conscious of my abs, always wanting them to be more defined, tighter, looking better. I have an AbsWork machine and a Body Blade and have been using those for 3+ years now. I would procrastinate doing those workouts, so I decided to give this video a try (mainly for the price), and I love it! It is quick, to the point and YOU FEEL IT BURN! The eight minutes go by quick and after two weeks my husband and I both notice a difference. I try to work out at least five times a week and it does not matter how much I use this video, I feel the burn! I recommend this to anyone who wants fast results and a great routine at that! Jaime is great at keeping you motivated and reminding you of the correct way to do the exercises. The bonus Arms are a plus and I use the soup cans! Better than going to the gym! My daughter (3 years old) even likes to do the workouts with me!

nice surprise
I am not a workout tape junky but decided to give this one a try due to it's minimal time requirement. I am a new mom and free time is hard to come by. I did the tape for the first time today and I plan on keeping it in the VCR so that all I have to do is press play whenever I get a few minutes. I found the on screen 8 minute count down helpful and I like that they let you go at your own pace. You don't need any equipment although it is optional for the arms, they actually use soup cans! The instructor is lowkey and positive and there aren't a bunch of sweaty models posing for the camera. I definately felt the burn in my abs but next time I think I will use the soup cans for the arms. I am actually looking forward to doing this tomorrow!

AB-solutely fabulous!
This is an oldie but a goodie!

The "8 Minute" series is a good compliment to a healthy, active lifestyle. 16 minutes a day, at a minimum of 5 days a week, and you will see and feel results in your abs and arms. If you want to maximize your results, combine the workout with a balanced diet and cardio exercise. Keep With It!

Both the Ab and Arm workouts are targeted, with small movements. Easy to do in any small room! After a couple of weeks the moves become so repetitive that it is easy to do the ab workout even without the video. Great when I travel!

Do not expect dramatic weight loss with this video. However, you will feel stronger and build lean muscle. Can't beat that for 16 minutes a day!!

Oh Baby!
This is one of those Change-Your-Life videos...
Right up there with the best of them like
"New Sex Now" guide to life's ultimate pleasure
and the CD "Voice Lessons To Go"

Don't be afraid to love your life even more!

The best ab workout ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been doing the ab workout for 3 months and the results are amazing. My abs have never been so hard and so defined. For all of you who previously wrote that you do not see results, you are obviously doing something wrong! Maybe you need to lose some weight first, you can't expect to exercise and not diet and then see results. Trust me, this ab workout DOES work. ... Read more

Product Description

Welcome to CRUNCH Fitness! Combine an ancient discipline with an ancient problem and what do you get? A current solution? Try yoga. To burn fat, you must burn calories, and in this program, you can! With Fat Burning Yoga you can tone and re-shape your entire body, increase energy levels, feel lean and limber, and it can help you maintain healthy weight levels. ... Read more

Reviews (84)

Energizing Yoga Workout
I loved this tape! I thought the instructor was motivating and a real person. Fit without being too intimidating. She explains all the moves really well and reminds you to breathe in sequence, which I found very helpful. I didn't think yoga could be "fat burning" but I was sweating and energized at the end of the workout. Plus I was sore in all the right places the next day. I really like the Crunch series of tapes because most of them are 30 - 45 minutes which is alot easier for me to squeeze in to my day. This tape will become part of my regular schedule. I highly recommend it for beginners and intermediates. It probably wouldn't be suitable for advanced yoga enthusiasts.

Great Workout
I just got this tape yesterday and decided to try it this morning. I hadn't completely bought into the "fat burning" part of it because I didn't really believe I'd even work up a sweat during the workout. It was fantastic and I was definitely sweating by the end. The instructor is very likeable and the routine she guides you through is easy to follow yet demanding. She also included a 6 minute yoga abs bonus at the end and a short stretch and period for relaxation. I highly recommend it!

Good Exercies
I must say that when I first seen the video without doing the exercises I didn't appreciate it. The poses are basic yoga: downward facing dog, plank pose, cobra and simple back bends for floor series. For standing series: triangle pose, warrior poses and modification of side stretch poses.

The beauty of this tape and Power yoga in general is that the flow of movement along with proper breathing helps to create energy and burn fat. I never though I would sweat that much from such simple poses.

The instructor is helpful and calming; she reminds you constantly to breathe, which is quite important because usually you tend to focus on perfecting the pose and neglecting your breath.

Note that you need to practice with the tape for two to three times before you can do it smoothly and without looking into the video.

I would recommend this tape for beginners and even for intermediate yoga students. I have been practicing Hatha Yoga for a year and half and find this tape helpful. I would've however liked it if it was a bit more challenging.

yoga for busy people
-Do buy this tape if:
A)You are pressed for time-the workout is 30-35 minutes or so long
B) You are looking for just a hint of a challenge(only really tough part is lunges)
C)You dont mind an instructor who does alot of explaining/talking and such
D)You are a newbie
DONT buy this tape if
A)You are looking for a serious 'isometric" type routine (I.e.Brian Kests Power Yoga from 1995 tapes)
B)You are REALLY looking to sweat hard
C)You are looking for really challenging poses (i.e. crow,one arm balance,dancing shiva,etc..)

Great Yoga Video
This is an excellent workout for people who don't have 60-90 minutes that many slow-movement exercise programs require. It's 45 minutes of relatively-simple poses. Ivanhoe does a great job of reminding the viewer of the most important aspect of yoga - the breathing. this would be a great program for beginners who are looking to ease into a routine. As an intermediate yoga practioner, I do this tape 4-6 times a week! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Interval workouts incorporate a variety of activities that are powerful and short in duration. These intervals create an anaerobic workout that forces the body to adjust to variations of intensity and motion. Interval training has the real potential to burn fat and build strength. The Firm: Body Sculpting Basics utilizes these same aerobic and anaerobic components to create a 60-minute workout that promotes strength and stamina. Instructor Susan Harris presents simple dance-style aerobic combinations and weightlifting techniques that are sure to make you break a sweat. This video is somewhat dated (lots of '80s-style leg warmers and traditional dance aerobic movements), but the content is so stellar that it would more appropriately be coined as a fitness classic. Pliés, squats, and split-leg lunges work the major muscles of the lower body, while lateral raises, curls, and push-ups concentrate on the upper body. Light weights (5 to 8 pounds) are used throughout this workout, and a set of ankle weights may be helpful if you are looking for a challenge. Cueing comes quickly and Harris does not give much information on form or body alignment. Therefore, beginners should watch the informational portion of this video (the segment immediately before the workout) in order to train as confidently and safely as possible. This is a brilliantly designed program that merges weight training and cardio in an effective and approachable (not to mention quick) package. --Olivia Voigts ... Read more

Reviews (114)

My Favorite Workout
I have many workout tapes, from the old Jane Fonda classics to Kathy Smith and Denise Austin, and even other tapes by The Firm, and this tape is definitely the best. It's fantastic in terms of a challenging workout with simplicity of movements and "positive"--without being annoying-- music. The instructor, Susan Harris, is also gorgeous and extremely motivating, without being cutesy. The music and people also motivate me. The first time I did it, I thought I would just die trying (the people in the video are very fit and at first I thought they were truly aliens from another planet), but I've become stronger and stronger, and I'm happy to report that I noticed visible results within 5 workouts (although at this time, I've worked out to the tape at least 12 times and have no desire to even try something new). It's also a very flexible routine for beginners as well as advanced, because you can vary the amount of weight to suit your needs. I will probably use this tape for the rest of my life, I love it that much. Also, I have 6 other tapes by The Firm that I hardly ever use, because this one gives such a thorough workout for the entire body without much "mush" time-- you stay quite active for the entire 60 minutes. I'm always drenched with sweat by the time I finish it. This is the Alpha and Omega of all workouts, and I'm a critic, too!

The Firm: Total Body- Body Sculpting Basics
Not only is this the first in the Firm series, it is also the best of The Firm series. I have always relied on this particular tape to get me back into shape quickly. I've actually seen results in 3 sessions; your friends will notice the results on you in 10 sessions. Even if you have less than 30 minutes, you can do the aerobic portion with weights(the first half of the video)in less than 30 minutes and still achieve an effective full body workout. I have actually used this video to get quickly into shape to run marathons and to attend reunions. After reading other reviews, I am compelled to say that I am disturbed by those that have focused negatively on the '80's music and styles. If you are serious about an outstanding workout, superficial factors like music and leotard colors should not matter. These classic early videos are the foundation of todays Firm series. The problem: this video is no longer available (out of stock) and not available in DVD format. If you are lucky enough to acquire this original Firm video, the gold standard of all exercise videos, treasure it for years to come, I know I will.

Can't say enough
The great thing about the old Firm tapes and the new FitPrime workouts is that you can ALWAYS make them more challenging. Even after you memorize the entire workout forwards and backwards, there is always the possibility of adding more weights to make it tough. This particular workout includes an exhausting thirty minute floor routine that primarily works every muscle in your legs. I saw results in less than ten workouts. Some beginners may not like the layout at first, but remember do not use weights! Just do the exercises to get familiar and work your way up. The new Firm tapes pale in comparison, so do yourself a favor and go back to the beginning, you and your body will be thankful.

Incredible Body Sculpting Workout
If there is one tape you use to get in shape this one should be it. I am not an exercise nut, but I can not begin to tell you how much this tape has helped my overall figure. If you do it you will see results. It takes time to build up to the entire tape so don't get immediately discouraged. This workout is truly fantastic!

This workout is NO JOKE
It works everything, the old school way, by blood, sweat and tears!!! I give it 4 stars because some of her technique and form is incorrect. But overall, it is an effective workout from top to bottom. If you want to purchase this video and all of the other older Firm videos go to www.collagevideo.com. Many of the older videos are also on DVD from colleagevideo, including this one. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Great Workout!
I have been cardio-kickboxing for years, so when I recently decided to buy some DVDs and weights for working out at home, I was eager to try out the much-hyped Tae Bo workout. I thought the Basics workouts would be too easy, and I do add a little more bounce to my workout than is in the tapes (when I have the energy, that is). I was wrong. With a solid effort, these "basic" workouts can kick your [behind! It is also good to have workouts divided into 25 minute (and one 8 minute) segments, if you don't have time for an hour's worth of exercise or if you want to reverse order for variety. Blanks has good form and uses all the basic stretches, punches, and kicks that my instructors over the years have used. He explains each move for those who are unfamiliar, and he starts slowly with each new move. (If this is too slow for me, I simply double-time it.) I also like Blanks' supportive, "let's have fun doing this" attitude and friendly encouragement. I am looking forward to getting the advanced DVDs for more combinations and greater variety of moves.

Video one is five stars, video two is three stars
Video one begins on the floor with an intense ab routine followed by glutes. After doing the original basic series for 3 months, five times a week, I decided to try something else. I have done this video for three weeks now and it's still very difficult to get through the glutes section. However, I don't feel right if I don't do this ab routine. Other ab routines from other videos just don't give me the same benefits.

Video two focuses more on the legs. One irritating thing is that he keeps saying in what I perceive as the hardest part of the workout that this is just the basic video. It's not very encouraging. I do like how Billy reminds you to focus and you'll get through it.

I have damaged cartilage in my right knee from years of dancing, so I look for videos that are entertaining, mentally stimulating, but provide as little impact as possible. Video two strains my knee, so I have only done it five times and prefer video one, given visible improvements in my abdominals and posture after just three weeks.

Boot Camp
This isn't a work out, it's boot camp. If you aren't in really good shape, or like to be able to move the next day, DO NOT DO THIS. Try Windsor Pilates instead, work your way up to this. Other wise you'll be in serious pain the next day! His counting is terrible and does too many reps on one side and not enough on the other....

Good basic kickboxing workouts
This 2-tape set consists of two basic Tae Bo routines. Basic Workout 1 includes floor work in addition to a standing kickboxing routine. This video begins with instructor Billy Blank's standard 5-minute stretch routine. Following the warmup comes the toning segment: 4 minutes of abs work and then 4 minutes of targeted glutes work performed on hands and knees. Then Billy leads one of his basic kickboxing routines consisting mainly of punches with some knee lifts and kicks thrown in; Billy also emphasizes the abs while in a standing position. The kickboxing segment lasts about 10 minutes, and a final 3 minutes of cool-down stretches complete this 26-minute workout. Basic Workout 2 is entirely a standing kickboxing routine. There is a similar warmup (about 4 minutes) followed by an approximately 18-minute cardio workout. Billy does a few more combinations here, and again, he always reminds you to work your abdominals from a standing position. This workout ends with a Tai Chi type cool-down segment.

As an instructor, Billy Blanks is very likeable and extremely enthusiastic. 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. These tapes would be good for those who like simple kickboxing routines focused mainly on punches and which include some toning in addition to cardio.

Fuerte!!!
Si necesitas bajar de peso y tonificar a la vez este es el DVD que necesitas. Tiene dos secciones de alrededor de 25 minutos y una de 8 minutos por si no tienes mucho tiempo. Es un ejercicio bastante fuerte, por lo cual a los que estamos un poco sobrepeso se nos puede hacer un poco dificil al principio, pero despues te diviertes muchisimo. No le di una puntuacion de 5 solo por que la segunda parte me parece un poco monotona. Pero por lo demás es excelente. EXITO!!! ... 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

Amazon.com

Callan Pinckney's Callanetics--a program of nonimpact, deep-muscle exercises--has been popular for decades. In this workout, AM/PM Callanetics, Pinckney presents two 20-minute workouts designed for busy people: an AM Class and a PM Class. "You'll get energized in the morning, completely relaxed in the evening, and of course a great body 24 hours a day," Pinckney promises. She is assisted by a small group of people of varying ages and flexibility levels. The AM Class presents some fairly traditional stretches and other exercises that use a ballet barre (you may substitute a piece of furniture). Some of these are very difficult toning exercises because they work the small muscles (of the hip and outer thigh, for example), and most of the movements are either isometric or little pulses. Most exercise professionals would say that working large muscles through a fuller range of motion is a better use of your time, but Callanetics has always had its followers who claim dramatic results. The PM Class, which she calls "meditation in motion," is quite similar to the morning workout, with more emphasis on stretching. If you're a Callanetics fan, here's a way to divide your workout into two short, manageable parts. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (20)

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

AS LONG AS IT'S DONE CORRECTLY....
YOU WILL DEFINITELY SEE RAPID RESULTS.
IT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD ALL OVER-BODY AND SOUL.
AND IN RESPONSE TO THE FOLLOWING POST MADE BY "BARBPL":

3 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
very boring - little or no challenge February 20, 2001
It's probably just me - perhaps I should have NOT purchased this tape. I was looking for a video that would really help me "jump-start" my day. I found this to be really boring, the movements quite basic and Callen's personality very cloying. This might be a wonderful relaxation tape, but I do not see the effect I was hoping for.

I'M GLAD TO SEE THAT THIS POST BARELY MADE A DENT IN THE 4.5 STARS THIS VIDEO GOT REVIEWS FOR.
ALL OF CALLAN PINCKNEY'S VIDEOS ARE AMAZING AND YOU GET IMMEDIATE RESULTS. ALL OTHER WORKOUT VIDEOS CURRENTLY ON THE MARKET CANNOT COMPARE!
MY ADVICE TO "BARBPL": TRY IT AGAIN, OR TRY ONE OF HER OTHER VIDEOS. YOU WERE NOT FOLLOWING THE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE "T" IF YOU FELT OR SAW NO RESULTS. UNLESS YOU PREFER TO JUMP AROUND ALOT AND HAVE FAST MUSIC (BUT GET NO RESULTS)THAN THIS WASN'T FOR YOU.

If you are lacking time--
Buy this in addition to the 60 minute tape and alternate--it works. (Or use it to get hooked and then move up to the 60 minute tape.)

a great "starter" tape
This is 2 complete 20 minute workouts, and it's the gentlest of the available Callanetics videos. It makes an excellent introduction to this unique method, and good for people with not much time to spare. Another added benefit (and this is especially true of the PM section), is that it's wonderfully soothing, and if you're feeling anxious or stressed, Callan's soft and gentle voice, guiding you through these slow motions, will help release any tension, and calm the nerves. If you're the type that needs a lot of "bounce and flash" to get you motivated, Callanetics is not for you...this is indeed "meditation in motion"...the exercises can be very difficult if done correctly, but everything is done quietly and in "triple slow motion".

A note to anyone who like me, has weak or problem knees: You may have to modify your movements in the "Pelvic Weave" and "Front Thigh Stretch" in the AM workout, and in the "Pelvic Rotation", "Pelvic Scoop", and again the "Front Thigh Stretch" in the PM portion. Go at your own pace, and you'll find your knees getting stronger quite rapidly. I was amazed to find that I could kneel and sit on my heels after only 3 weeks...it has been decades since my knees had the agility to do this.

Strength and flexibility are the 2 major benefits I've received so far in the few weeks I've been doing these exercises, and why I would recommend Callanetics to anyone over 40. These are the 2 things we start to lose with age that make us "old", and contribute to accidents and ill health. I've also noticed some body shape changes, but it's the feeling of well being that I value more than anything...and the ability to stretch like I haven't been able to do in years.
Callan says of this tape that you'll feel energized with the AM, and relaxed with the PM, and have "a great body 24 hours a day". Thank you Callan, for inventing a system that I look forward to doing on a daily basis, and that is making a profound difference in my life.

great video!!!
if you want to wear a smaller size (fast) get this video i have drop 2 size in 19 times of doing this video. ... 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

Amazon.com

Crunch, a New York-based gym, keeps bringing innovative and hip exercisevideos to VCRs across the country. You don't have to be in a metropolitan areato experience cutting-edge fitness trends and formats because Crunch: YogaMama delivers an effective (and chic) pre-natal workout that can be done inthe comfort of your living room. Instructor (and pregnant woman) Sue Elkindleads this 40-minute workout with concise descriptions and a healthy knowledgeof yoga as it relates to pregnancy. The content here provides a workout that isboth safe and efficient, with great attention to participants' individualfitness levels. This session is presented with a backdrop class (consisting ofwomen in various stages of their pregnancies) that demonstrates modified andmore challenging options to each pose. Pregnant participants may find it moreappropriate (and less annoying) to take direction from another pregnant womanrather than an ultra flexible, ultra thin (non-pregnant) instructor. Basicpostures within yoga are taught with intensive focus on breathing, flexibility,and the constant connection between mind/body (and mother/child). Some poses arealtered to accommodate the roundness of the midsection with constant awarenessof spine alignment. Elkind gives special attention to balance as she slowlyincreases the intensity of postures. After a series of basic poses areperformed, Kegels are practiced (which strengthen the pelvic floor), andmeditation closes out the workout. This basic format is friendly for beginners,pre- and post-natal women, or anyone who requires modifications. Thissafety-conscious video offers a simple, straightforward workout with realpotential for increased strength and flexibility. Props needed: a blanket orpillow, a mat, and (especially if you are expecting) a chair. --OliviaVoigts ... Read more

Reviews (50)

a good stretch, an easy workout and some inspiration
I'm currently in my 19th week and have been using this video for about 6 weeks. I alternate this video with Rocki's Prenatal Yoga. This is the one I pick when I'm feeling less motivated and want a good stretch, an easy workout and some inspiration. I feel good afterwards, both in body and attitude. I'm VERY inspired by the different body types and love seeing the bare bellies on so many of the moms-to-be. I prefer Sue's personality and style to Rocki's, but I feel more "worked out" from Rocki's video.
I only wish this workout was available on DVD: I suffer from insomnia as part of my pregnancy symptoms and I have found the 2nd half or so to be exactly what I need (at 2am) to tune out my stress and relax my body. Also, I am a work at home mom with a toddler and sometimes 15 minutes is all the time I can make (the full workout is 45 minutes but I find I can break it into 3 segments when I need to). DVDs make it so easy to skip ahead and there's no need to rewind!

An excellent prenatal yoga practice
Although I wouldn't call this the perfect prenatal yoga practice, it has some distinct strengths over other prenatal yoga videos I've seen. Visibly pregnant Sue Elkind leads a class of about a dozen women of in all stages of pregnancy through a well-chosen series of yoga poses. One woman demonstrates modifications for the less flexible, but most of the women do the program without modification, even in late pregnancy. The instructor talks through each pose, giving special attention to the balance and posture changes of pregnancy and emphasizing the connections between body and mind and mother and baby-to-be. This constant commentary makes the poses easy to follow even when not watching the screen, but may distract from the meditative quality of yoga practice.

Yoga Mama is most appropriate for women with no or limited yoga experience and no exercise constraints. It may also be helpful for intermediate level women in late stages of pregnancy, for tired days, or as the easy part of a rotation of practices. Advanced yoga students, however might find this video frustratingly basic and prefer to develop a personalized yoga practice using books (try Preparing for Birth With Yoga by Janet Balaskas). Women who need greater modification might want to try the Shiva Rea Prenatal Yoga program instead. Props: sticky mat (or carpet), folded blanket, folded towel (for wrist pain), chair (for modifications)

Personal Experience: I used prenatal yoga videos several times a week in addition to prenatal classes in a yoga studio once or twice a week. Although no video can equal a live class, this one captures some of the spirit of practicing yoga in a room full of pregnant women of all shapes and sizes. For home practice, I could choose between Yoga Mama and Shiva Rea's Prenatal Yoga video. Although Shiva Rea's video is longer and has better production values, I plunked this video in the VCR more than twice as often. I preferred the selection of poses in Yoga Mama (though I wish each pose lasted longer) and I preferred following Yoga Mama's visibly pregnant instructor (skinny Shiva Rea demonstrates first trimester poses with no hint of a belly). In addition, I found it much more motivating to see the whole class perform without modifications in contrast to the extreme modifications in Shiva Rea's program (the third trimester woman does most of the poses seated on a chair). To my surprise, I was able to comfortably and safely perform Yoga Mama without modification up until a few days before delivery. Practicing prenatal yoga helped minimize back pain, leg cramps, and other pregnancy discomforts.

My favorite prenatal yoga workout
This is a great tape! I have been doing it for almost my entire pregnancy (I'm in my 8th month) and I love it. It isn't the longest workout (about 40 minutes) and it isn't the most challenging, it is just the most fun and gives you the best feeling. Sue Elkin is awesome and the tape is just great! Get it, you'll love it!

horrible video, poor quality, poor instruction
Crunch is a neat brand, but they missed it with this prego video. The instruction is poor, the set is dull, and the workout is below average.

Relaxing and fun
I really like this video. It gives you a gentle workout, not too difficult, but still worthwhile. The instructor and all the other women in the video are pregant and they give you modifications on all the harder stuff. Overall, if you want a 1/2 hour - 45 minutes of gentle yoga with some stretching and a little strength work, this is a great tape for you. It is my favorite. ... Read more