Description

Just wait till you see the results from this exceptional stability ball workout. You’ll tighten your butt, slim your legs, and flatten your tummy in less than 25 minutes. • Start with deep conditioning for your abdominals and back – the ball contours to your spine so you’ll get a better workout than you ever thought possible. • Scultp your legs so they get lean and strong, and shape your butt for a lifted, more rounded look. • Get a relaxing full-body stretch that includes yoga poses adapted for the ball. You’ll look forward to these stretches because they feel so good. • BLT is an incredible way to shape up and get limber with moves that are simple, fun, and easy on the joints. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Fun Workout!
I just bought this DVD and first used it today. The workout is pretty simple and easy to follow along with. Just make sure that the stability ball you buy is big! I made the mistake of assuming that it would not really matter what size ball I got, and the cover of the DVD did not specify. But It was very hard to do some of the steps with a small ball-almost impossible. Also I did not really like the butt and legs section of the workout, some of the moves were too complicated and I was doing them all wrong so I didnt feel anything in my legs. The Abs part was great though! I think I will just do the warm up and abs part of this video over and over and skip the rest.

Great for bad backs
I recently bought this video to use with my stability ball and am very happy with it. Normally, the exercise videos annoy me (don't forget to breathe....) but this one doesn't. It is very specific, which is great so that I don't accidentally hurt myself. It is also really good for bad backs...the exercises are tough but don't put stress on your back at all. I would highly recommend this video. The only thing that I wish was different about it is the length. I would rather have a longer workout than just 20 minutes.

Very Easy
I am in shape and have extensive experience w/ fitness...This is an easy routine on the ball. You can feel some results if you work it hard, otherwise, good to do if your sick.

Happy w/ my investment
I was lucky enough to go into Costco and buy a kit that had "BLT" and "Strong and Streamline" DVD's that included the body ball, the green genies and a workout matt for just over 20 bucks. Heck I was hoping to just find the ball at that price.

I also bought the book "PowerSculpt: The Women's Body Sculpting & Weight Training Workout Using the Exercise Ball" and I have gotten more use out of the ball with that book. I highly recommend that book.

With BLT I can do the stretch in the morning before I get on my Nordik Track Elliptical for 20-30 minutes and then either do an ab or just the stretch.

For me the lower opening squats are fun and burn, but I don't know if I walk away feeling like I got a good workout. It is more of a mini workout and a great way to get ur body moving arround before you sit in your car and then at work. The abs I feel in my upper abdominals only. I need the DVD in the morning to keep me on schedule... or I would never leave for work.

It is NOT an aerobic workout. Nor is it a serious workout.

All said, I love my body ball and I have just ordered another DVD "Quick Fix - Stability Ball Workout" and "Pilates on the Ball" in an effort to find the perfect body ball workout. I wish the author of "PowerSculpt: The Women's Body Sculpting & Weight Training Workout Using the Exercise Ball" would put out a video w/ the workouts. I have been into Pilates for over a year now and I am looking forward to my exercise ball to take me to new levels.

B.L.T. = boring, low energy, tiresome
I regret buying this. The workout is 25 minutes long, and doesn't come close to breaking a sweat. (The abs and legs routines are about 10 minutes each, followed by 5 minutes of stretching.) I'm reintroducing myself to exercise and thought this would be a fun way to start, but it's not, especially since i feel like i'm not accomplishing anything. (I suspect intermediate and advanced exercisers will feel even worse.)

Karen Voight is a better trainer than most. She doesn't suffer from hyper-perkiness that can irritate exercisers. However, her counts often feel "off" to me, which is either a result of bad editing or bad musical selections. All in all, this isn't worth the money I spent on it. Find yourself a better, longer and more challenging DVD - this is coming from a couch potato, which should tell you a lot. ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Pretty good basic stuff
If you're looking for a how to belly dance this is not the DVD for you. If you expect these women to tell you how many "aerobic certifications" and "how many repititons" then this is not for you. That being said, if you've been to aerobic classes, you should remember proper body positioning so you don't hurt yourself. This is a basic assortment of issolated belly dance movements arranged in a traditional "aerobic class" style with the goal of getting you to move. The fact that it's belly dance makes it fun and does serve as a distraction from the muscles screaming "I can't move this way!" I particularly enjoyed the arm segment because it worked the muscles I need to sustain these moves in my dance (snake arms being the bain of my exsistance). As I continue to work with this DVD, my arms are grudgingly cooperating and I have found that my abs are starting to get with the program too. I also liked the hips segment for the same reasons.
I gave this 4 stars because the voice over track was off a little in my copy. Could be my DVD player but I loaned it to a friend who had the same problem. Also the instuctions weren't always accurate with the moves.

A really fun workout!
I've been working out for about 6 months now and lost a total of 35 lbs through diet and exercise. I've tried many different workouts - Richard Simmons, Tae Bo, Mari Winsor Pilates - and this is one of the funnest workouts yet! For a beginner this would be a great video to try because it's fun and goes by quick. I've found that videos like Tae Bo, while great, get boring after a while. This is a great way to mix it up a little bit! I have been using this and The Method Afro-Brazilian dance and really enjoy it! The voice over doesn't bother me - I can see how it might be difficult to talk while doing these moves. Neena and Veena's wonderful physiques make me want to do even better - and now I've developed an interest in Bellydance! Don't worry if you're more heavy set - it's still fun and no one's going to be watching! And - the only way to get those beautiful belly dancing bodies is to exercise - you gotta start somewhere! Try this video!

Really enjoy this one
My biggest problem was trying to find a work out that I liked. This is one of them. I do it everyday and I feel real good about myself. For a person that has not worked out in long time this is a good one to get toned. It is not really for cardio. So if you want something more fast paced you might want to check out different routine, but for toning it is pretty good and fun!

best workout tape I've tried
My aerobics videos experiences are by no means diverse, but after just a week this is already my favorite DVD, and has actually gotten me to stick to a routine of working out first thing in the morning because it's so enjoyable.

Gone are the obnoxious perky shrieks and whoops like I hear from Kathy Smith and crew; the voiceover doesn't bother me, and the music is soothing, not cheesy and thudding. The relaxed tone almost leads me to believe I'm not even doing much work--which I assure you is NOT the case. The first couple of rounds of these two workouts made me sore, sore, sore, in some places I didn't even realise I was sore until I did the exercises again. There are very few segments of the workouts that I truly "dread" (all who have done the leg lift in Arms & Abs will know exactly what I mean) but I've seen remarkable improvement in my muscle tone and flexibility in just a few weeks. I'm not as clumsy as I used to be, and just in day-to-day activities find myself with better posture and muscle usage.

And no, these workouts will not teach you HOW to bellydance, but the moves are nice and I'm confident that when I start taking actual bellydancing classes this fall I will not have nearly as much trouble with either moves or endurance. Some of the moves took me several exercise sessions to figure out, but they've all been worth it. I feel great and can't wait to try more routines with Neena and Veena, who are beautiful and talented.

FIVE STARS
Very good workout. First time my tummy & my thighs where burning the next day.
On the DVD there are several preformances by the twins at the end. Different style by both of the twins. I htink there are about 4 or 5 dances.
Its worth it to me just for the preformance footage.
AWESOME workout & not overly strenious. You will be sweating by the end. ... Read more

Description

Eliminating Back Pain is a program addressing all aspects of back pain including weak core musculature, tight muscles contributing to pain, strengthening exercises, beginning exercise tips, posture and daily activities that may be contributing to your pain.

Neutral Spine

Finding your neutral spine is fundamental in establishing proper spinal mechanics for a pain-free back. In addition to neutral spine Eliminating Back Pain also teaches you proper head and shoulder positioning to relieve stress from the spine.

Spine Stabilization & Strengthening

Eliminating Back Pain instructs you how to find and activate deep core muscles which stabilize the spine. It also covers how to begin a strengthening or aerobic program minimizing stress to the spine or discs.

Stretching

Eliminating Back Pain also teaches you about muscles that typically cause pain and how to stretch them.Many of these muscle groups attach to the spine or pelvis and, when tight or in spasm, can alter biomechanics or cause pain.

Injury Prevention

Often our backs are exacerbated by activities we do every day.Eliminating Back Pain educates you about common daily activities that may be contributing to your pain such as gardening, lifting, sitting or sleeping habits, vacuuming etc.

Eliminating Back Pain is a comprehensive program using easy to follow instructions.Our DVD menu breaks down topics into chapters as well as individual exercises so you don’t have to watch the entire program each time to see the exercises you want to review. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

really does the job!
This video really addressed my back pain.I took it
to my personal trainer and she loved it too and gave
it to her chiropractor The exercises are simple, I
understood exactly how to do them, and my back feels
wonderful!

My husband swears by it - with all his traveling,
these exercises really help him deal with both stress
and lumpy hotel beds!

Check it out - it's well worth it!
... Read more

Reviews (21)

fun cardio
This workout is one of the most fun tapes I have done in a while. I have other Firm tapes and I keep going back to this one.

Allie is one of my favorite Firm instructors. Others made some comments about the tattoos. I had to look hard to see those supposedly distracting tattoos --they are very small tasteful ones that encircle her wrist and ankle. The way some people were going on I expected to see her tattooed from head to toe. And yes, she is not bone thin, but she is in excellent shape and looks very healthy with normal curves. I don't understand what the fuss is about there with some reviewers. If anyone is doing a video workout thinking they will attain the specific body contours of whoever is leading said workout, they are sadly mistaken.

Back to the workout --it provides a great mix of cardio moves, squats, and some basic kickboxing moves. It is not the most strenuous cardio workout out there but it definitely gets the energy going and is interesting enough to be repeated on subsequent days.

A little advanced, but effective
This workout utilizes the Fanny Lifter and the Sculpting Stick, but I would recommend using neither for the first couple of times through the workout to get the moves down, it is still rather effective without the step. There is some complicated choreography for the first time user, but Allie does a good job breaking it down. There are 6 mini routines, each one does an 8, 4, then 2 set breakdown of the moves. Because the workout is divided into segments, it is easy to pause, catch your breath, drink some water, and then start back up. The instructor has great cueing, and once I got a hold of The Firm's vocabulary I had no trouble keeping up. The segments have a kickboxing routine, sculpting, cardio, and a few use the fanny lifter for scuplting. There is a longer ab routine that is sure to have you sweating the first couple of times through. I just wish that they had held the stretches for a longer amount of time.
All in all, I like it, and would buy it again.

Loved this one!
I just started back doing my Firm tapes/DVD 2 weeks ago and thought I would try this one in the set that I just bought first because I love Allie!! I consider myself a beginner/inter but love a challenge and by the time I was done with this video I was sweating and had a great time.. There are so many different moves, styles and fast pace exercises in it that I didn't get bored and will definately be keeping this one in my routine..

I noticed Allie's new tattos right away but they were not distracting at all and as for her look I thought she looked great and very fit.. She is an excellent instructor and makes all the workouts fun with her wonderful energy!!

Great for Light Training Days
I use this on my light training days. It's a great break between other Step routines; I dig the combination of weights and cardio!

The main reason I'm writing, is due to some of the past comments that have been written, in regards to Allie. I cannot believe how snobby some of these reviews have been...from comments about her weight, to her tatoos, its just pitful how self-absorbed and trite some of these reviewers are.

Shame on you! Exercise is for everyone!! Even if you have tatoos, piercings, black, white, fat, thin...Exercise is not just for the skinny and so-called "perfect" people.

If you're new to Max Cardio Burn, do not allow these judgemental reviewers to cloud your vision. This is a great video for light training days, the steps are easy to follow, and, you don't need the sculpting stick (I just use my weights and step!) to perform the exercises.

great workout
I thought that this workout was great. It really had me sweating and I am in my ideal weight. Allie is my favorite instructor and who cares about the tattoos and her figure. This is a great cardio workout. Time goes buy fast. And even though the ab section is short it is challenging. I would definately recommend this to friends. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Who'd have thought it?
That stretching could tone you up so much, even improving definition?? I love Miranda, she is barking (in a good way) and her workouts are excellent. I'm a chronic back pain sufferer, so I use her Back Pain Relief DVD (amazingly fine) and like it so much I bought this as well, which has two 30-minute workouts that the brave could do back-to-back for a REALLY hard hour. Not that I'm that brave... It has something in common with isometric programmes like Lotte Berk's and the Bar Method but I find it even better, and I do feel that stretching is helping my back issues as well. Really terrific, great value and good fun. Oh, and because Miranda isn't some kid, I do feel this programme is encouraging for all. ... Read more

Product Description

You don't have to spend hours in the gym to get a leaner, trimmer, stronger you. In fact, you don't have to leave your living room. With Walk Away the Pounds for Abs, you can get a great workout that challenges every muscle in your body, firms those hard-to-tone places, burns fat and works your abs-- all at the same time! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Where there's a will , there' a way
I got the WATP for ABS 1 & 2 Mile DVD to add variety to my daily WATP sessions , which I have religiously done for the last 3 weeks . This is truly the first exercise routine I have ever stuck to for so long as WATP is so simple for an uncoordinated person like me & can be done at my convenience which is normally 9.30 p.m!! Also WATP is not as strenuous as kickboxing type aerobics which leave me feeling very sore the next day . The only catch with this WATP for Abs is the special "resistance belt" which is not available in Australia and is quite flimsy anyway according to other amazon reviewers .I tried using weights instead but it's not the same . So I made up my own "resistance belt" for US $15 out of (1) Men's wide leather belt (2) Metal key ring holder with a wide loop specially for attaching to belts (3) 2 X Oval key ring holder clips similar to mountain climbing clips (4) A fitness resistance tube expander of medium strength 135cm long with handles . After fastening the key ring holder to back of belt with wire to make it stay in the middle of my back when done up , I attached the 2 X Oval key ring holder clips to this central key ring holder . Then I knot the resistance tube on to each of the Oval key ring holder clips without cutting the tube into half . This leather belt with metal fittings & proper resistance tubes is so strong that only Arnie could break it .Since it works like Leslie's original "resistance belt" , it really gives my Abs & arms one hell of a workout - I was slightly sore after the WATP for Abs 2 mile walk . I highly recommend this DVD so long as you have some form of resistance belt as it really works different parts of your body to the usual WATP program . ... Read more

Description

The Trainer’s Edge Video Series was designed to bring the benefits of one-on-one training with the masters of the fitness industry into anyone’s home. These talented and experienced trainers work with celebrity clients, professional sports athletes and other trainers to guide them to achieve weight loss, a tone body and overall optimal fitness. They are the trend setters and the source of what is new and innovative in fitness today. Michael Olajide designed this 40 minute program to work your body’s core, the abs and back. The core is the center of your body’s strength and by strengthening the core muscles you strengthen and tone the entire body. The program was developed through Michael’s years of boxing training and uses twisting, punching, jumping and floor work with the body’s natural resistance to achieve maximum results. Former Middleweight boxer Michael Olajide was a highly respected championship boxer whose fights were televised internationally.In 1991, Michael retired from the ring and created truly innovative and endlessly challenging fitness programs which he teaches worldwide. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

All right
I bought this DVD thinking this was finally the workout I needed to get rid of my potbelly. I have tried ALL THE AB workout DVD's. Although I thought it was somewhat effective, it is not the best. Swiss Ball ABs is a much better DVD with very difficult exercises... that will give you killer abs. I don't believe I could get killer abs doing this DVD. The cardio part of this video will raise your heart rate, and I thought it was actually better than the floor work routine. You need a body bar and such for this part (but you can definitely just do without it--it's just for stability). ALso, I didn't have a jump rope but you only use it for like a minute or so. Ankle weights are optional on one of the ab exercises. Overall, not a bad purchase.

excellent invigorating workout
I have used so many different ab workout tapes but i have never felt the way i do with this tape. Michael does an amazing job working your abs and also including cardio in it as well--hes a great teacher, pleasure to workout with as some trainers are so annoying to listen to but hes fantastic and i also love the fact that he incorporates all the same moves as boxers do when training so you know you are getting an amazing workout--i used it so far 3 times and i already feel like my abs are feeling more toned if thats at all possible that quickly, but im sure keeping it up your abs will tone up in no time! I look forward to working out now!

Thanks for responding Michael
I have all of your workouts and love them all. I have to be honest. I think this one is your best. I think it was mainly due to the standing ab work and the music. Good music is really important to me. It keeps me pumped to continue a particularly tough workout. I'd love to see you come out with a circuit routine that has intervals of boxing, jumprope, and standing ab exercises. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.

Thank you, everyone
i would like to thank all of you for the gracious review of the Killer Abs and Back workout. I found myself reading them intently becuase there is nothing like listening to honest critique to better your product for the people who purchase it! I created it with the intent of it being a energetic and challenging workout and i am honored with everyone's knowledgable reviews. 2 things I would like to answer, The audio was laid down in post production which is why the queing is a little off and sometimes rhythimically things dont line up... I am sorry for that... #2, in 1992 I created Aerobox in NYC, recieved positive national/international review on major media outlets like goodmorning america, usa today and in 1994 did the Aerobox workout video with Kathy Smith... which featured punching patterns (punching across, hooks, uppercuts, etc) and jump rope. In 1996 or so, Tae-bo came out (more power to them) and their punching/kicking routines. reviewer Skaitey writes that my patterns were similar to tae bo's when in reality, it is the opposite... no hard feelings, i just wanted to set the record straight, I guess I am a little sensetive to that, but I do want to put out high quality/original programming for you all. Smile... If ya'll like the trainer's edge, wait till you experience what we have on the way... Thanx again everyone, peace and love, Michael

great workout very similar to tae bo
I won't deny, this is a great workout, great abs sections and aerobics/jumping sections.
What I like about this workout is that it mixes tae bo type moves (such as twists and knee lifts) with some pilates moves, which makes the abs sections even tougher! and it is what I usually do: tae bo and pilates!
Overall a great workout for the abs!!
I would also encourage people to check out the Tae Bo "ultimate abs" video and the mtv pilates dvd. Both amazing abs workouts!! ... Read more

Description

Unlike other workouts that just tone muscle, Pilates is a unique physical discipline that actually changes the way you use your body.On these discs, Kathy willl show you how to use Pilates exercises to develop a lean, strong body and the tall, graceful bearing of a dancer while building core strength for sports and daily activity. (Includes: Pilates for Abs and Pilates for the Lower Body.) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Best for Beginners
The problem with reviews for exercise videos is that they are predicated on the health & fitness level of the writer. That being said, I'm a fit 40 year old male runner with little prior pilates training. To me, Ulitmate Pilates seems best suited for beginners but I think advanced beginners & intermediates would quickly tire from Kathy's constant instruction. I guess I like my pilates to be a little more meditative SO I CAN concentrate on my form & breathing. The other issue I have with Kathy's sessions is that they don't flow very well from one move to the next. In addition, there are some redundant moves between the 2 dvds. Using proper form, I didn't feel either workout was that difficult or taxing. I got a much better workout from Ana Caban's Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout. Pilates Workout for Dummies is a much better intro IMHO.

ultimate pilates
Excellent pilates workout! Kathy is a great teacher and you will guarantee get a good workout!

Great Workout
I was a little leary of buying Kathy Smith's pilates due to the fact that most of her videos contain a lot of aerobics, jumping and bouncing. I was pleasantly surprised though with her knowledge of pilates. I feel that the combination of these two DVDs will help you to re-shape your body. If done properly, you will absolutely feel your muscles working.

Pilates Workouts For Abs and Lower Body
This DVD set is a combination of the Pilates for Abs and Pilates for Lower Body workouts. The two workouts are packaged together in this set.

Kathy Smith's Pilates for Abs workout is a challenging workout for the abdominals. This DVD is great for both beginning and more advanced work outs.
The Pilates philosophy is all about perfect repetitions every time, so you're not going to be doing sit-ups for the entire workout. The movements are isometric and difficult if you maintain correct postures. This workout focuses on the shoulders, ribs, abs, and engaging your hamstrings.

Kathy has Leah working out with her, and Leah demonstrates more advanced versions of the movements when you are ready to move up to that level. This feature will keep you using this DVD over time.

While the workout only runs 20 minutes, I find it a great complement to an existing routine of cardio and light weights. I combine this workout with a 30-minute cardio segment for a well-rounded day.

The Pilates for Lower Body workout runs a little longer. It has a 6-minute warmup and a 25 minute workout. It is just as challenging as the Pilates for Abs workout.

This is a great combination of workouts! A must-have for Pilates enthusiasts! ... Read more

Description

Now on DVD!The Exercise video series that started it all!Getthe body you always wanted with a workouts targeting your most important zones.This DVD combines two great programs in one!Target Toning Buns of Steel and Target Toning Abs of Steel. Reshape, retighten and firm your buns, hips, thighs and abs. ... Read more

Description

The extraordinary benefits of Yoga are being enjoyed by an ever increasing number of people. No one is better at teaching Yoga than Lilias, and now she shares her renowned knowledge in the Complete Yoga Fitness For Beginners series.These wonderful programs will provide benefits for all areas of personal fitness, from firming and shaping the entire body to building cardio strength to advanced relaxation techniques.This is the perfect way to use yoga to help tone and firm your whole body and achieve total fitness.Learning Yoga is easy with Lilias and the Complete Yoga Fitness For Beginners series can be enjoyed by beginner and advanced users alike.

Special Features:

- Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
- Guided Yoga CD
- Serenity Now Video
- Interactive Full Motion Menus
- Chapter Selections
- Photo Gallery ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Ready, set, go buy this one!
Lilias Folans "Flowing Postures" series is what I encourage beginners and the yoga curious to begin with. No matter how "in shape" we may look and feel without good posture we are out of shape. The posture supports our entire body. The first video has gentle movements to tone and build strength in the upper arms w ithout building large muscles. Strong toned long lean muscles is the message here.
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"serenity now" features slow, rhythmical breathing with relaxing postures that will help you to unwind and quiet that inner chatter. Come on you know you think too much . This will help you get centered while in the background beautiful, soothing music is playing.

As you gain strength and balance move on to the last video a wonderful cardio workout. Lilias is my favorite instructor . I first discovered her in the seventies on PBS. I think if not mistaken. She had a show either really late at night or really early in the morning. Which can be one and the same I suppose.

yoga homework
I've been attending a yoga class once a week for awhile. Before I received this set, I was stiff at the beginning of each class. I couldn't remember all the positions or the order in which they should proceed. With this set and another Lilias 2 box set, I can practice 6 days a week and attend my class on the 7th day, fully prepared and flexible. Lilias is the WOMAN. I practiced with her in the 70s on a PBS station and feel that I've reunited with an old friend. I can only hope that I've aged as gracefully as this gentle woman. I love these tapes and hope you will also.

It's made a difference in my life!
I never thought I'd be able to do yoga because of an old back injury. Most yoga videos have too much twisting and strain for beginners or the skittish folks like me. But Lilias Folan's yoga series is wonderful. The four tapes give me enough variety so I never get tired of these routines, and they have made a real difference in how good I look and feel. They're designed so I can make them more challenging as my conditioning improves. My wife, who is in good shape, also enjoys these tapes. It's truly Yoga for everyone! Lilias has a warm, non-intimidating manner, and unlike some of the popular yoga videos, it doesn't waste time on fancy settings and show-offy postures. Highly recommended!

Stress reduction you'll want to stick with
After being sedentary for a couple of years (grad school combined with a full-time job will do that to you), I decided it was time to exercise again. I tried a few tapes but Lilias's were the ones that really hooked me. I love the variety of the tapes -- I do all four over the course of a week and feel that I'm getting a good all-over workout. I always feel completely de-stressed after doing the tapes, and I'm quite a high-strung person. If I have any complaints, it's that "Serenity Now" is perhaps the least relaxing of the four. I'd been hoping for something a bit more meditative.

Yoga For Everyone
Why is this video set so wonderful? 1. There are four tapes. One concentrates on the mind, the other two on specific parts of your body and the final on cardiovascular fitness. We all know if your mind isn't into it, sometimes you just can't push yourself to workout. It's true a run or vigorous workout does wonders for releasing stress, but you must get yourself to the workout! How many times do you decide to just sit and vegetate rather than make it to the gym or go for that run? With the "Serenity Now" video, you can calm your mind and also give your body a gentle workout that may precede the more intense three videos in the series. The "Legs and Buns" video and the "Arms and Abs" video both concentrate on specific muscle groups and parts of the body. They contain intense yet peaceful, flowing postures that really work muscles you don't even know you had! The "Cardio Challenge" video is much the same and concetrates on a series of repetitive postures, beginning slowly and quickening the pace so you're performing flowing exact movements that will definitely get that heart rate up and make the brow sweat a bit. The key here is that they're intense but they don't involve a lot of jumping around. You can obtain just as good a workout through the peacefulness and serenity of yoga than if you were to take an aerobics step class with loud pounding music and twenty or thirty others jumping around you. 2. Lilias is not concerned with fancy footwear or body baring leotards. She is a beautiful woman and not your average every day gym rat in your local workout meat market. She has a very calm presence and one that's soothing and encouraging as well. She speaks in a pleasant, calm voice and warns you of problems you might encounter while going through the combinations of poses. Her demeanor belies the tremendous strength, agility and ability with which she performs the yoga poses. It's clear she's been doing this for years and years. In fact, when I was younger, I would watch her series on PBS as she had a yoga workout program on there for quite some time. 3. You don't need 1000 square feet of shining hardwood floors to use these videos. In fact, the exercises are completed barefoot and in comfortable clothes that allow movement, not restrict it. The postures are completed in a small space so you don't have to move that coffee table! 4. You don't need yoga mats or a block although you may find these things nice to have as you advance in your practice. Lilias suggests using pillows or a belt in place of the former and these work just as well. 5. The videos appeal to a wide range of people. I am a housewife and freelance writer. I am not athletic but manage to stay fit with my daily routine and by eating sensibly. My husband, on the other hand, is an army officer who runs quite a bit. I would say he's in prime physical condition. We started doing the videos together and not only do they appeal to the both of us and they're something we can do together at the end of a long day, they get his heart rate up as well, and they're much less taxing on the joints compared to running three or so miles a day as he's done. 6. The videos are short but provide the necessary daily workout time period. Each video is around 35 minutes in length so you're not saying, "I have no time to do an hour video." Just 35 minutes works wonders. They're such fun and I feel so good after doing one, I often do another and sometimes another. 7. They really do work! I'm not going to fib here. I don't enjoy exercise unless it has to do with swimming. I've never subscribed to high (or low for that matter!) impact aerobics, gym memberships or jogging. I've tried a few other workout videos but they were either too long or involved too much jumping around or were just plain boring. The day after I completed one of Lilias' videos, I could tell a difference in my body, and just this morning, after doing the "Cardio Challenge" with my husband last night, he awoke to pleasantly sore and taut muscles- a sure sign it's working! And, look how long yoga has been around. In my time in Nepal a couple summers ago, I never saw an out of shape yogi! 8. The pleasant background music, lovely postures with beautiful names AND a different "cool down" for each of the videos adds to the appeal of this series. Above all, if you find you need something different in your life in the way of exercise, and you're looking for a way to simplify your life (time to go to the gym...money for a membership or classes) and bring more peacefulness and serenity to your presence and being, these videos are definitely for you. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pilates focuses on strengthening the core or midsection, so a Pilates-based abdominal workout is a natural. The first of the three 10-minute sessions led by instructor Keli Roberts utilizes many of the classic Pilates moves: curls, leg circles, the 100, criss-crosses, a teaser sequence, and swan dive. The second set combines some traditional mid-section exercises with Pilates resulting in a mix of sit-ups, the can can, leg stretches, scissors, and rollups. Stabilization is the goal of the final and most difficult series, starting with rolldowns from a standing position, pushups, and rollups back up again. Other exercises use the plank and side positions and require both skill and balance. Fortunately, one of Roberts's assistants demonstrates modifications. With so many variations crammed into each short set, beginners may benefit from watching the exercises first and making liberal use of the pause button as they learn. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great option for working your abs and entire midsection
Quick Fix Pilates Abs is an excellent exercise video for targeting not only your abdominal area, but also your entire midsection, or "core." The tape consists of three 10-minute ab programs which become progressively more difficult. Instructor Keli Roberts jumps right into the workout, offering good form pointers but not much detailed instruction. Therefore, prior familiarity with Pilates is a must for this workout, especially given that there are several challenging, intermediate/advanced level Pilates moves included (some modifications are shown).

Program 1 contains a classic Pilates matwork sequence, although the exercises are not performed in the traditional order. Keli alternates more accessible, beginner's level Pilates moves such as leg circles and the hundred with more challenging moves such as the shoulder bridge, the rollover, and modified teasers. In Program 2, there is a greater focus on obliques, beginning with the can-can and then moving through most of the exercises in the Pilates "stomach series," including single and double leg stretch, scissors, and criss-cross. This program also includes moves to work your back such as swimming and back extensions. The third program is the toughest by far, and it includes some quite challenging moves. This section begins with two sets of push-up and then continues with plank work both from a push-up position and from an elbows down position. This is also the only section which includes exercises from the Pilates side kicks series; these exercises really work not only your abdominals, but also your outer thigh/hip area.

It's important to note that there are no warmups/cool-downs included in this workout: each program is a full 10 minutes of intense toning work. This would be a very good video for anyone who enjoys Pilates and wants to some very different, concentrated Pilates routines.

Should be called "Pilates Core"
First of all, I really think this workout should be called "Pilates Core" rather than "Pilates Abs", because that is exactly what it is. Don't get me wrong, this is a great workout, and you can get an excellent intermediate ab workout if you just do the last 5 minutes of workout 1 and the first 6 minutes of workout 2. The rest of the DVD seems to focus on core rather than just abs. There are three 10 minute workouts. Workout #1 is called Classical Pilates. This workout begins with some slow crunch type exercises, but then it goes into several minutes of single leg circles and some bridge type exercises. The last 5 minutes offer great exercises for the abs: hundreds with legs bent or out to 45%, criss-crossing leg lowers, and teasers. Workout #2 is called Core Combination. The first 6 minutes contains some more great ab work: crunches (halfway down, all the way up), roll downs, single and double leg stretch, scissors, and slow moving bicycle type exercise. After 6 minutes, you begin to work your back, glutes, and hamstrings with the swimmer. Then you do some cat back arches and some balancing table top exercises where you reach your right arm and left leg straight out and then repeat on the other side. Workout #3 is called Stabilization, and, to me, felt a lot like a core rather than an ab workout. It starts with standing forward bends, then you get into the plank position (here I thought, "Ok, here comes the ab work", but I was wrong because you begin to do pushups!). Then you lay on your stomach, stretch your abs, and do the breaststroke. This is followed by some table top exercises and some excellent core work while on your side. There is also some more plank work where you alternate lifting your legs.
Overall this is a great core workout, but if you want to focus on abs, you will have to work around some of the stuff on this DV

Quick & Effective
I just received this dvd but already i know that i am going to enjoy it. i have been doing pilates for 7 months & some of the exercises in workout 3 i had to modify (more for balance purposes than anything else). the three 10 minute sections go by quickly.

Great workout
I am a personal trainer and I'm thrilled to find a DVD with new and different ab exercises! The exercises are challenging for the intermediate exerciser and modifications are shown to make it easier for the beginner. Another great workout from Keli Roberts.

Good workout
I'm new to pilates and found I actually could do these excercises. (I tried another program and it was way beyond me.) I love the "Quick Fix" series as they allow you to mix up your workout. I recommend this as an addition to your routine. ... Read more

Description

Presented by Dr. Paul Lam, a world leader in the field of Tai Chi for health and improvement, this safe and effective program places special emphasis on strengthening the deep muscles of the spine to alleviate back pain and other chronic disabilities. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Great Workout!!!!!
If you are serious about getting in shape but you don't have a lot of time then I definitely recommend these routines, especially when you include Abs & Arms. Unless you are already in excellent shape you will definitely feel the burn, in a good way. After about a month and a half I definitely notice the difference, I can now complete the leg workout non-stop, and can hold my own during the bun workout. I alternate days of these isolated workouts and some sort of cardio work, so my results are probably going to take longer than those more dedicated to these particular workouts.

Cheesy, but great work out!
Once you look passed the cheesy instructor and the 90s haircuts and pay attention to the excercises... you'll get a wonderful work out!

And it's great for people who have a busy day... just wake up a little early and dedicate 8 minutes of your life everyday to this DVD series and you'll start noticing the change within weeks!

A workout that BURNSSSSS!
This workout REALLY BURNS... Even after 3 weeks use, I pant & sweat as soon as I finish the workout. I dread putting the DVD into the player because I know I'll pause every now and then & consume lots of energy.... Yet, I recommend it and raise two thumbs up for this DVD! Very time convenient!!

Waste of Money...
They spent about 8 minutes and 8 bucks putting together this cheesy video. Production is not as good as some school video projects. There are two very bored people in the back who look like they don't want to be there. The 'person' in the front is a pretty boy in shorts made of tights material. They are extra tight to show off his little package that the camera man zooms in on from time to time. This guy is way to in love with himself. I might like this video if I was GAY.

I gave it a whooping 2 stars... If you could tolerate watching it you will get a good workout.

Love it!
I love these 8-minute workouts! I have both the buns/legs and arms/abs DVD. It's super easy to squeeze in one or two 8 minute sessions in the morning before work plus they really do seem to work. Best of all the people aren't annoying or boring. One thing that's really cool is that there is no counting -- they tally reps by time (eg: 30 seconds doing this, 1 minute doing that, etc.). ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Unique and Effective!
This new DVD from The FIRM is split into three abdominal workouts. And they aren't the same old stuff. The moves get more intense with each workout and feature a blend of some pilates and yoga strengthening. If you're really tired of plain old crunches, try this workout- you won't be sorry. It will challenge you, and the music is quite entertaining- it just "fits" with the moves. You may want to get the Sculpting Stick to use with this one. It's a very good body bar and it's fun to use. It makes the workouts more effective (sometimes you place the stick under your knees or use the "twigs" to intensify crunches).Kitka

The Ab Routines are worth the buy
I already have this DVD as it is included in the Firm's BB2 4-pack. She does a variety of ab exercises in 3 15 minute stints and they work. Especially the planks, which are hard to do alone and including the sculpting stick, but the results are worth it. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good stretches -- annoying video
The stretches are great & really do relieve pain!!! However, she does a long intro that is difficult to skip through once you've already heard it once! And I really wish she didn't talk through the whole video. I wish there was an explanation version...and then a "just go through the routine" version, once you know how it goes.

Solid Stretching - Speedy With Limited Explanations
I have suffered back pain for about 20 years. Based on the other review of this DVD, I purchased it. My comments are that the stretches are good and the DVD appears to deliver what is promised in a no-nonsense style.

Pros:
1) Good variety of stretches
2) The instructor is down to earth, a real person who also suffers back pain and is practical.
3) Only a chair is needed for the stretches

Cons:
1) You have to watch carefully how the instructor does the stretches - she does not explain all the moves.
2) While watching the stretches, to see how they are done, you often have to crane your neck up - the opposite of what the stretch calls for.
3) The switch from one stretch movement to the next is often too quick, but to the credit of the instructor, she reminds you you can pause the DVD.

Overall a good routine, and I must confess, my back does appear better after the stretches.

Please, just buy it
I am a chronic back pain sufferer; I am also a Brit who is a home exerciser and was browsing here looking for American DVDs as I think I own all of the British ones, and I saw this. I sent for it, thinking, yeah, yeah, it'll just be hype. But it works, guys, it really does. It isn't a cure, but works more like an anti-inflammatory; just 30 minutes of this, then you can keep going for hours with your usual tasks. I know it won't work for everybody, but I reckon that for most people it would at least make a significant difference. I am only 38, yet was feeling old and dragged down by my pain, despite the aerobics and toning and Pilates I do on my physio's advice to keep the lower back as strong as possible. I cried when I did this for the first time, as I couldn't believe how much better I felt. And don't tell me you don't have 30 minutes a day: if you really have back pain, how much time do you waste even dragging yourself up in the mornings?? Do this before your normal exercises, or instead if you are not an exerciser and you might well feel it changes your life. I hope so: as I said, it might not be for everyone - though you have nothing to lose by trying if your doctor says it is okay to do so. Good luck! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A good mix of dance and Pilates
Once again, Liz Gillies draws on her extensive dance and Pilates background to deliver an effective, unique workout.

The first section of the DVD is supposed to be based on Physical Mind's new Standing Pilates syllabus. While it is included in the middle, it's more of a cool-down/break from the meat of the workout, which is more ballet-based.

The second segment is the matwork. This is different from most of the other Pilates offerings out there, and on its own is worth the purchase price. This section is based on about ten or twelve traditional reformer exercises (as opposed to the traditional matwork). Included are: Footwork, Coordination, Rowing, Tree, Elephant (think Downward Dog with a rounded back), Side Plank and Twist, Leg Circles (different from the mat version), Pulling the Strap, and a few others I'm forgetting. I was skeptical about this keeping my heartrate up after the standing section, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that I still felt like I was "working" at this point.

The Abs section is very similar to the Abs section on her Target Tone DVD, with an emphasis on the Pilates Abdominal Series. While some of her modifications look more like crunches than Pilates, she does instruct that the emphasis should be pulling up rather than pushing down- so think navel up, then in. If you're familiar with traditional Pilates matwork, this section may not be too challenging, but it might be a nice break from your usual routine.

I wouldn't recommend this as the sole workout to help you lose weight, but it is an interesting and different way to work Pilates into your workout rotation.

great connection to mat!
I have been doing Pilates tapes of all kinds for years now and my body has been staying the same in the middle . I just realized with this tape making such a difference .I was getting too used to the same routine, even with props.
liz Gillies routines have great basic ballet style standing moves first to warm up and raise heart rate once you get used to it ..Youre still using the same pilates technique principals used in the mat.interetsing perspective!!.
This workout can be challenging to your balance at first,and liz could have maybe made clear modifications for that with chair etc.. but you like how it feels more with practice..Ive been doing this tape 3 times a week for 3 weeks now ..I notice such a difference in my thigh definition and abs! I feel that my core is strongerand flattening now for doing mat work. I break a sweat and now heart rate gets up, and my body keeps slimming down !
you definetely need to have focus and concentration with this tape which pilates is known for, I also learned some amazing new insights into my postural form from Liz ..She delivers new and important cues to really get it, as she puts it , an inside scoop! thanx liz , This is one of the few tapes I will repeat over and over

Good variation on "real" Pilates
I've recently starting working out again after 5 years. I hired a personal trainer, who is also a certified pilates instructor. I love what Pilates has done to my body, and I wanted to expand my knowledge and have a better understanding of the method, so I been buying DVD's and books to enhance my practice at home. I wouldn't consider this a "real" Pilates video, is more like a very loosely adapted variation, or a "Pilates inspired" workout. The instructor Liz Gillies has instant charm and does a great job in keeping you motivated.

The first segment of this workout is supposed to be a "cardio- pilates" mix, and altough I did sweat a lot, I did not find it to be that hard (and I am an avid couch potato), neither did my heart rate go up; but it was very fun and invigorating.

I really liked the second segment, the Pilates matwork. Liz really explains the how-to's and keeps reminding you to keep a good "pilates posture". The ab section is amazing!!! You can feel the burn! I did not think the matwork segment was long enough tho. I wish they had cut-down on "cooling" and "stretching" excersises at the end and added more matwork. But overall, this is a good workout for begginers, nothing extrenous or mega-challenging. Most importantly, it is fun, so you will feel motivated to do it! ... Read more