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Denise Austin leads a30-minute workout to lift, tighten, and tone buns. Although it is titled "yoga," it's really a series of varied buttock and thigh exercises--some yoga, some not--that use body weight and balance. If you're an Austin fan seeking a good gluteal workout, you'll like adding this to your collection, but if you're really looking for yoga, Yoga Buns falls short. Austin demonstrates the poses well enough, but her constant, cheerleading patter ("Make it work for the cheeks, for the buns, tight tushies!" and "Think of a tree, beautiful tree, hold it up!" for example) runs counter to the meditative aspect of yoga. Austin gives good alignment instructions, but never includes breathing and never connects with the serenity or spirituality of yoga. Recommended if you're looking for a half hour targeting the buns and you like Denise Austin. --Joan Price ... Read more

Reviews (5)

It works!
I absolutely love this video. It really works. You feel results the first time you do it and the second time you actually see the results! This is not a traditional yoga video- however some traditional yoga poses are done. I think my favorite part about this video is that not only the glutes get a thorough uplifting workout-but almost every exercise in this tape works the abs as well! Not to mention stretches you out completely. I can't say enough good things about it.

nice workout
This is a fun workout, the only complaint I have with it is Denise's over use of the words related to buns. I don't know if this was an angle to use to market it, but it gets too much emphasis in her instruction. That aside, it is a fun workout and really gets you working. If you don't like Denise, avoid it. I like her so I don't mind her peppiness.

Results
I bought this DVD two weeks ago and have been doing it almost everyday. Denise recommends that you do it three times a week, but it is so invigorating, that I want to do it everyday. It is really effective and you feel like you've done something after you're finished. I noticed results after only two workouts! I highly recommend this DVD.

Non-traditional yoga
I have been practising yoga for 3 years now. I like the deep breathing and calming meditative effect that this type of exercise provides. I purchased this tape thinking that it would be along the same lines as other yoga tapes I have, but with more emphasis on the lower body. I was sadly dissappointed. The routine is fast paced with little emphasis on breathing, so much so that I would hesitate to put the word 'yoga' in the title. About half way through the tape I turned it off and resumed my yoga workout with my old tapes.

Great tape
I may be biased because I like yoga moves but I really don't like all the meditating and new age spiritual ways that is can be presented. This tape doesn't do that. Yoga is really just saying that the workout involves some yoga moves. It totally can help your fannie area but it is up to the viewer to tighten and use that area. If you are able to concentrate your efforts I think it is a worthwhile tape. Thanks! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fast moving Pilates-based exercises
Overall, I enjoy Liz Gillies approach to some of the Pilates mat-based exercises. While in general I prefer the classic sequence done in the classic manner, sometimes it's nice to change things up a bit.

While mostly Pilates-based, Ms. Gillies also makes use of her dance background, particularly in the Buns section. A few lunges and cat-based positions are used here (some of that may actually be from yoga), but she does include some variations on the Leg Circles and Pelvic Lifts.

The Legs/Thighs section includes some variations on the Pilates Side Kicks and some ballet floor barre (e.g., developpe and passe). This is a fast moving section- so much so that even Gillies' form seemed to suffer a little bit. However, you can definitely feel it working.

The Arms section is Gillies' variation on the Standing Sculpting Series from the Pilates syllabus. She includes some variation on more traditional weight-lifting and does some of the work while balancing on the balls of the feet. I like that approach- it definitely forces you to concentrate on your powerhouse while working your arms.

The Abs section includes variants on the Hundred, the Roll Up and the Pilates Abdominal Series. This section more than any other on the tape was targeted towards those new to Pilates- she does a lot of non-traditional "setups" and then modifies many of the exercises. Still challenging, but not necessarily what you get from a more classic Pilates workout.

The Total Body section is my favorite. This section includes a lot of work for the upper body- planks, side planks, etc.- so much so that you could alternate it with the Arms section.

This is a nice addition to your Pilates collection, especially for those interested in "Target Toning", but you may want to supplement with some more classical Pilates from Ana Caban or Jennifer Kries.

New to pilates
I have done some beginner yoga previously, but this is my first attempt at pilates. The first time I did the workout, I found it difficult because it seemed like they went a little fast. I had to rewind and pause in order to achieve all the poses. Also, you need to be very careful when starting out because this really works your ENTIRE body and if your upper body and back aren't very strong, you might struggle. They do have modifications on the exercises, but they weren't always helpful. The second time I did it was a little easier and after just one session I could tell that I had strengthened my upper body and back more, which made the poses easier. I think persistence and patience is the name of the game here!! These girls make it look so easy, but you can tell they've had lots of practice. The other cool thing is that even if you're doing the other target workouts (bun, thigh, arm, total), you're still targeting your abs (powerhouse) at the same time. My abs feel so tight! I really feel like I'm getting a good workout. And it's quick!!

New to Pilates
I"m new to Pilates and I found this very user-friendly. I've been working out for years with the traditional aerobic and strength training, with Kathy Smith being my favorite. I decided to try this because of the 10 minutes that it takes to do a work-out (2 children under 3) I love the ab work-out! After doing it for a 3 week period I actually saw my abs in there under the flab. I quit early on the arms but am determined to try again. Also, there's a few butt cracks in the video. I found this funny and made me wonder 'did they watch this before they put it out on dvd?'
All and all I'll continue to do this work-out. It won't be collecting dust and that's what is most important.

better than i expected!
I bought this instead of mtv's piltates workout because it also had a 10 minute arm workout. I usually do all four (butt, belly, thighs and arms) and sometimes the total body workout if I have extra time. It has only been three weeks of doing the video every other day and my arms are looking better than ever! Also, the abs workout is one of the best I've ever tried. The best thing about the video is that it is not very difficult. The excercises vary a lot and there aren't many repetitions, so you don't have time to get bored, or feel like you want to quit.

Targeted Pilates
I am a committed video exerciser - after a long day at work, I'm just too tired to drive to the gym, but I can manage to put on some sweatpants and turn on the TV. Pilates is the "latest" exercise fad (actually been around awhile, but enjoying a resurgence in popularity.) I've tried a number of Pilates videos with varying results. This is one I will keep and use! There are FIVE different sections - one for abs, one for buns, one for arms (using weights), one for legs (lunges here!) and one for the total body. Each section is 10 minutes long (or 10 minutes short, depending on your perspective), making it easy to squeeze in a quick workout with so many other demands on your time. Each section targets a specific "problem" area (backs of arms, saddle bag thighs, etc.) which lets you focus on your own "areas of concern." At about 5-minute point, when I just want to drop dead on the map (hey, I'm working HARD!), a little on-screen clock pops up to let tell me there are "only" five minutes to go, then four, etc. - knowing I have just "XX minutes left" helps keep me motivated. This is one tape you will always be able to fit into your busy schedule. BTW, I usually do the four "target" sections at one time; I leave the "total body" section for times when I really DO have only 10 minutes to spare! ... Read more

Description

Belly dance is perfect for sculpting buns & thighs since so many moves are driven by the glute, thigh, and hip muscles.

If you are familiar with bellydance, these exercise sessions will help you improve or polish your technique by encouraging a consistent focus on incorporating glute contraction in your hipwork. Glute work added to hip isolations and combined moves helps increase your hips' range of motion and make accents sharp and expressive.

If you are new to bellydance, learn and practice belly dance steps during this workout, then follow Neon as she demonstrates a choreographed 2-min. dance! The dance can be accessed separately for review before leaving for a dance club or party. Personal trainer Andy Troy, CSCS offers exercise safety tips throughout the program.

Each of the three 15-min. exercise/dance sessions includes: 3-min. warmup; 9-min. exercise session; 2-min. dance sequence (2-3 reps of each move/combination from the exercise session arranged into an attractive choreography); 1-min. cooldown.

* Onscreen graphics offer visual tips to the use of glutes and thigh muscles in bellydance.

* During the 2-min. dance sequences, graphics of the move trajectories serve as visual cues;

* A progress bar shows the number of reps for each move, plus marks the rep you are currently performing.

* Anatomy of belly dance movement -- comments by personal trainer Andy Troy CSCS

* Safety tips throughout the program by Andy Troy ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great sequel to her "Abs" video
I got both Neon's DVDs from her fitness series, "Abs" and "Buns and Thighs", I've reviewed "Abs" ("Bellydance for Body Shaping: Abs") and everything I said about that DVD applies here. Neon has an excellent understanding of bellydance isolations technique and so her fitness videos use isolations very creatively and ingeniously to result in a lot of toning work in the areas she targets.
I am very impressed with both DVDs, and use them in my workouts. I love it that every single movement in her fitness videos is an actual dance move. I don't like mixing crunches and bellydance undulations.
She serves her fitness routines in 15 minute installments (3 on each DVD) ending each routine in a drum solo choreography. I love her choreographies, and her style, I must admit I am a fan. Neon moves in a way I've never seen anyone move like this, she is fluid to the max like she has no bones, but you can only see that on her performance DVDs. Her fitness routines are beginner intermediate, although a few moves on both DVDs are closer to "intermediate-advanced" like the 3/4 sideways travel.

Good exercise for novices
Over the past couple of days, I've been doing the workouts on Bellydance for Body Shaping: Buns and Thighs.The DVD is broken into three short workouts, each of which focuses on the glutes and thighs.Neon's warmups incorporate squats, lunges, and stretches, and then she teaches a short choreography which could also be used in performance or out clubbing.

Although the movements do indeed work on the advertised muscle groups, if you are already in shape, you will not find the exercises demanding.However, if you are new to exercise or to the isolation work of Middle Eastern dance, you may find these exercises challenging.

Personal trainer Andy Roy offers safety tips during the video so novices will not injure themselves.


Neon makes use of diagrams which show the shape and direction of each of her movements.In most cases, this can clarify thingsto viewers who may otherwise be mystified by unfamiliar movements.However, I noticed at a couple of points that the directional arrows were pointing the wrong way, and that threw me for a loop.It didn't take me long to figure it out, though, so it's not a very big deal.

On the negative side, Neon's costume is a dark red, and her background is black.There are times during the video when it is difficult to see exactly what is going on because she fades into her background.A more brightly-coloured costume would have made her movements easier to see.

Also, considering the video appears to be aimed more toward novices, I think her demonstration of the hamstring stretch would have been better shot from the side.To someone unfamiliar with the stretch, her forward lean might not make much sense.

All in all, I would recommend the video to people on their way to getting in shape, and also to dancers looking for an opportunity to practice their moves.If you're already in great shape, you will want to find something much more demanding.I didn't break a sweat during these workouts, and my heartrate only accelerated slightly. ... Read more

Description

Down at the docks a very enterprising but dangerous element is making life miserable for Sheriff Marga. But she is distracted at the moment by a series of puzzling kidnappings that is plaguing her parish. Could the culprit be the mysterious Queen - the dancehall queen of the docks? Or could it be an even more sinister figure: The Killer Tarantula? Sheriff Marga is in a race against the evildoer as shetries to interview the many suspects before they too disappear. Produced by KEVIN COLLINS, PETER J. EVANKO, HUGH GALLAGHER

Features:
-Region 1
-Full Motion Interactive Menus
-Full versions both American and European Versions
-Behind the Scenes complete with nude intro, Commentary and closing by Linnea Quigley
-Photo Gallery
-Bonus short - Les Psycholettes
-and more! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The Movie That Dares You to Watch It!
This is one of the most unwatchable films that I have ever seen. In fact, it is second only to "The Underground Comedy Movie" for the title of 'Worst Film Ever.' I was recommended this film by Amazon's automatic system probably because of other low budget camp movies I have purchased. The title intrigued me, so I bought it. How much I paid is irrelevant: it was too much at any price.

The 'plot' consists of over the top acting by several scream queens (Linnea Quigley and Michelle Bauer turn in the best performances) involved in a spider web of kidnapping and perversion. If you read the liner notes and promotional copy, you will be led to believe that this is a "crazy and sexy romp filled with outrageous situations and dialogue," which is half true: it is filled with outrageous situations and dialogue, but it is neither sexy, nor a romp. What it mostly consists of is the all too rotund shapes of Lina Romay and Analia Ivars writhing around a spider web for the better part of two hours looking positively vile.

There is nothing appealing about this film. I was led to believe that it would be a light comedic thriller, but that was a large misconception. I will say that there are two devices employed in the film that redeemed to a very tiny degree the remainder of this mess, those being the hilarious spider puppet with the female face and the quirky singing of the ex-boyfriend ensnared in the web, particularly when seen from the spider's viewpoint.

The title is great, the cinematography is generally quite good (though the transfer to DVD isn't great), and there are a lot of extras, most notably the inclusion of the European version of the film (which I couldn't bear to sit through after watching the US version), and the relatively entertaining, and certainly good humored commentary and additional footage hosted by Linnea Quigley, who claimed that she really enjoyed working on this film. The short film "Les Psycholettes" is also included, and is as unwatchable, if not more so, than the feature. If you absolutely must see a Jess Franco movie, save yourself the pain of seeing this one. If you are a diehard Franco fan, go ahead and give it a whirl; you are definitely more likely to enjoy it than anyone else, but the odds are still against it.

Flawed, but not entirely so!
I paid full price for this video, not the $9.99 Amazon is asking, so I think those of you purchasing this DVD are getting a much better bargain that I did. Basically this is a story about a lesbian spider woman who preys mostly on other women. Some of it is surprisingly erotic and very creative. A lot of the humor is lame, and I wasn't impressed with the overall production quality. Still, it's got its good moments, and you really can't go wrong for a mere ten bucks! It's campy, but if you like campy-erotic then this one's well worth it!

Wow! Franco is one crazy director
If you are tired of the same old same old, take a look at director Jess Franco's Mari-Cookie and the Killer Tarantula! I had tried some of Franco's movies from the 1970s (the ones with Christopher Lee as Dracula and Klaus Kinski as Jack the Ripper) but this is nothing like that. This is one psychedelic trip to a new world of wry comedy and unbounded imagination. Michelle Bauer is more beautiful now than she ever was -- even better than she was in Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers -- and Linnea Quigley is exquisite. Lina Romay proves that she is best acting talent that Eurotrash has exported in the last 35 years. This simply has to be seen to be believed. This is not for the weak-hearted though. There's a lot of nudity and some creepy spiders but what's wrong with seeing a lot of beautiful women in a very funny film?

Bold and crazy, but very weak.
Let's start this off by stating that I am NOT a big Jess Franco fan. So, while I did hate this movie, I suspect that the big fan base that Franco has will love this film.

Mari-Cookie is good in how simply outrageous it is. There is no attempt to mimic Hollywood. There is no attempt to present this film as anything but crazed low-budget entertainment. It IS low-budget. It IS crazed. But the filmmaking is so lacking in competency and artistry, the end result is anything but entertaining. So, despite the insanity - which I admire - this film falls way short. It was difficult to sit through.

DVD - the transfer is okay; not bad, not great. The extras are more entertaining than the actual movie, but not nearly good enough to justify buying this disc. And the menu pages of this DVD are about the most annoying motion menus I've ever been forced to endure.

Jess Franco fans, you may love this DVD. To the rest of the world: AVOID!!

Wow! Psychedelia for a new century! Great Franco/Bauer Team
I am a late-comer to the world of Jess Franco. I had only heard bad things about his films. When I came to the United States I was suprised to find out that he was still making films. I though he stopped in the 1980's. But I find his new production company is still making them fast and furiously. "Mari Cookie" is very funny and sexy and it has wonderful music by lots of cool Spanish bands. "Mari Cookie" must be like a 90 minute trip on LSD with the rock music blaring in the background. I hope that Franco works more with Michelle Bauer because she is an exciting find. Many people probably think that Franco and Bauer are relics from the '80s but both are still vibrant and Michelle is more beautiful and talented than ever! I highly recommend this sarcastic sexy comedy! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Steps a bit hard to follow, aggravating equipment
NOTE: This series revolves around the use of their 2 pieces of equipment. You might feel sort of left out seeing them use theirs if you don't have them. However, I think you could get by using a mop or broom handle in place of the sculpting stick and an ordinary exercise step that you already have. I didn't think the fanny lifter and stick were quite worth their high costs either.

I found that grabbing and putting "out of the way" the sculpting stick as well as dis-assembling it and re-assembling it annoyed me. I was also greatly annoyed with having to move the fanny lifter and then retrieve it as well as taking it apart using half and re-assembling it. This may not sound demanding, but it really irritated me. The exercises were not synchonized for convenience. In other words, why couldn't they have me take apart the stick at the end so that I wouldn't have to put it together again?! Or why couldn't they do all the exercises/ moves that required a certain part of the fanny lifter together so that it wouldn't need to be almost constantly moved, retrieved and re-assembled?!

What I REALLY and chiefly hated about this workout were the dancy aerobic segments. If one has almost "two left feet" and is not gifted at learning moves easily (like a cheerleader/dancer), this will be hard to follow (esp. Jen's Total Sculpt with Abs, but all Firm BSS2 were somewhat). I PREFER for the new moves or next moves to be explained to me BEFOREHAND not in the middle of the current move. If I have to completely stop and rewind or slow down to figure out the moves.., my hearbeat, of course, slows which is NOT good in the midst of any workout like this. I hate to have to stop moving because they added in a move I wasn't expecting.

I guess I am spoiled from TaeBo and Winsor Pilates: where all new movements are explained/ demonstrated adequately before the reps begin. Some people may not have such trouble as I did catching on to the moves.

As for the positives, these "felt" effective both during and the next day. Never got to actually see as I'm returning mine. These were difficult yet doable and lenghty. Music was fair.

Overall, I just didn't think this is a workout I'd look forward to. It is quite important for me to not be annoyed and rather to have some fun while working out which is why this whole series ultimately gets the thumbs down from me. If you "catch on" easily and don't mind the equipment "hassles," you probably could make this work. Still, heed my warnings.

Shorter sculpting sets with room to grow
I did this workout the day after Maximum Cardio Burn. This workout also has the same "fun factor"- Jennifer Carmen is enthusiastic, cues well, and is very encouraging. The music is very fast-paced, and that motivated me through some of the tougher sets.

As I mentioned in my review of MCB, I don't have the Sculpting Stick, and here I also didn't feel like I needed it. I found some of the moves that it was used for ineffective. I was able to sub weights for just about everything, including the pushups on the stick- I just don't understand how that wouldn't compress people's wrists. It certainly wouldn't do any harm on the combination chest press and pullover, but as you progress you're going to need heavier weights anyway. The "lat pulldown" it was used for did nothing for me, even using weights that were heavier than the stick. I don't believe that exercise is useful unless it's attached to a pulley- you don't work your lats here, you work your shoulders. I was disappointed when I emerged at the end of the workout and didn't feel like my back had worked at all. Next time I'll sub some heavy lat rows.

So why the four stars? Because the rest of the workout is great, and as with almost all of the Firm workouts, everything can be made harder with the use of heavier weights. Jenn thoroughly works over the biceps, triceps, thighs (inner and outer), glutes, hamstrings and abs in this workout. Also, I like the variation they're using on the leg presses in this workout. Instead of using two heavy weights, you use one very heavy weight and then hold a dowel in your other hand. I really did feel like I was getting deeper into the targeted muscle groups for the leg presses as well as the squats, lunges and plies.

The aerobic sets are short here, and they're intended to be used more for recovery from your heavy weights than to significantly elevate your heart rate. Pick up Maximum Cardio Burn to cross train with for cardio.

Beginners Only.
This video is for those wishing to start the firm tapes and are considered a beginner. I'm an intermediate to advanced and found that this video doesn't challenge my muscles. I didn't even break a sweat, not even when I increased my weights.

Great for beginners though. Not to tough.

Love this workout!
I bought this DVD as part of the original FIRM Body Sculpting System 2 with the Sculpting Stick. This one with Jen is really fun. The music is so awesome! The weight work is fun and challenging and the stick offers a lot of variety to the work. It targets every muscle of the body with fun and effective moves that beat boredom! Short cardio bursts are added to really burn calories! The ab set was fun, too. Meow!

You warm up with the stick, and then get right into weight work like lunges and dips, all set to some realy awesome music. Short breaks of cardio keep the blood pounding, some on the box and some off. The ab work uses the stick in unique ways that will challenge your core and your stability.

Of the three new FIRMS, this one is my favorite. The music score is the best. There is also a set of dips on the box that will REALLY firm your fanny!

Kitka ... Read more

Video Description

This six-week series of easy exercises is a progressive program designed to eliminate or reduce back pain and prevent future problems. Learn the two causes of most back pain, six tests to find your real problem areas, seven tips on pain prevention, and ways to reduce stress and tension. Based on the work of Dr. Hans Kraus and the YMCA's exercise program, "The Y's Way to a Healthy Back". Includes illustrated back exercise booklet. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
This is a great learning tool for people with back problems. I have herniated discs in both my neck and lower back from an accident. I had difficulty walking and moving my neck. After 11 months of specialists trying different things from drugs, P.T. to steriod injections, I picked up this tape...I had just started seeing a neurologist, who reviewed the exercises and approved them...suggesting I start SLOWLY and also suggesting that I enroll in a water aerobics class. I can now do things I used to do, that I couldn't even think about doing after the accident. Note: it is very important that you do the exercises in the order given on the tape...I found that it was a progressive type exercise/strengthening program; and, if I did it in a different order, I did seem to hurt more afterwards. I can't say enough about how much I appreciate this (along with H2O aerobics) which helped me deal with my injuries. Also note: it won't give you instant relief...I did the program along with H2O aerobics for 2 years...before I could get back to a somewhat "normal lifestyle" I did see improvement little by little throughout that time...but, there is NO "quick fix". When you have a back injury, it's up to you to strengthen the muscles to support the spine and discs. It's not a cure....but, doing the exercises does help strengthen the muscles around the discs which provides some pain relief and gives you more mobility. This tape also includes a section about how to do everyday tasks differently, to prevent "flare ups." HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

Video Not for Everyone
I bought this video after rupturing a disc in my lower back. I was unable to do any of the exercises, as they caused me further discomfort. I would not recommend this video to anyone who has moderate to severe back pain because the exercises are too advanced for a person in this condition. However, if you are almost recovered from a back problem, or are only experiencing mild back pain, this video will teach you exercises to help improve your muscle strength. It also offers some very simplistic "how-to's" for daily activities such as bending, loading the dishwasher, etc., in a way that will not reinjure your back. These tips are really common sense ideas that will not greatly benefit anyone who is already living with back pain. Finally, I was disappointed by the video quality--it looks as if it were filmed by a low-end home video camera.

Virtual immediate relief from lower back pain .
I had lower back surgery 5 years ago (herniated disc) with ensuing stiffness and recent shooting pain. In two sessions following Dr. Lamberti's excercise routine my back feels better than it has in years. The shooting pain is gone as is most of the stiffness. I also endorse the section of the video identifying the everyday movements that create back problems and how to avoid them. I strongly recommend this video to back pain sufferers. ... Read more

Description

Transform your body and your mind with this innovative and highly effective approach to getting and staying in great shape. A fusion of the ultimate mind/body practice of yoga and ball work, this practice will give you the flexibility and strength that result from yoga and the core stabilizing and balancing qualities that result from working with the stability ball. For beginners as well as seasoned fitness practitioners, this program is designed to get and keep you working at the level that is appropriate for you. Instructor Leisa Hart takes special care to provide modifications along with detailed instruction to make this program safe, fun and challenging for every body. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

doing ab crunches has never been easier
my wife bought this tape and loves it...she already had a big ball, and this is by far te best beginners ball workout for the abs. Hart is great looking and toned up, and she inspires my wife to work smarter, not just harder. This is the perefect ab ball workout.

really effective, great beginners abs tape
you have to start some where, and Leisa Hart's an incredible instructor. This ball workout is so good, it gives a great variation for the abdominal region, you will love this video. I sure did!

simple to follow, great instruction
when it comes to doing ab crunches or any type of ab work, expecially when using my stability ball, i find alot of the videos to be to hard or too difficult to follow....not true with this video, Leisa Hart is a fine instructor who is very simple to follow, she is easy to listen to and gives great tips to watch for safety...my abs are getting into the defined range after just 3 weeks...when my husband see's my get out of the shower and towel up, he is amazed that he is seeing results from my doing exercise videos....and all of the videos I use now are Leisa Hart's videos...I love all of her stuff, and definitely recommend this one as well.

Disappointed
I teach a stability ball group fitness class and I bought this DVD to add some new ab exercises to my class. I was really disappointed. The exercises aren't effective and some didn't even target my abs! For a great total body workout try Quick Fix Stability Ball Workout.

interesting moves, very good instruction
the variety presented by the instructor was very good in this beginner level abs ball workout...i have many ball tapes, and several of them do the same moves over and over with different music, i thought that the moves here were refreshing, they weren't yog alike or strict pilates, but a combination of traditional toning moves with a flare of soem other principles...overall, this is a very good tape and well worth it to try ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Best exercise dvd I have found!!
this is one of the best exercise dvd's i have ever used. i actually look forward to exercising during the week while my child naps.

all the toning segments make me feel like i'm getting kicked into shape. i do both levels of fitness each day on the abs, buns, and thighs. the 10 minute segments are great for anyone who can't find time to exercise, or who have limited time because of small children.

as for the cardio, i found it to be effective. it actually is about 25 minutes long. the moves are easy to follow as long as you are trying. she does give instructions on what's going on.

as far as someone saying they wished denise would say "this is what we're going to do", and then do it, that's what kathy smith videos are for. the cardio workout was easy for me to follow! i would recommend to those who are starting up an exercise program after a year or more without, to sit through the cardio workout and watch the moves before doing it. that way, you'll know what to expect.

denise gives me the motivation and encouragement to stick with the program that i can't give myself. i stick with the program since i feel accountable to denise and myself if i miss a day of exercise. consistency is what gives results.

all you need are a mat or large rug(or carpeted area), a chair, a pillow, and a towel.

Great For People With Not Much Time
If you're looking for a video that doesn't take a lot of time, then this is one that you should add to your collection. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or have been doing this stuff for years, there are two levels to suit both challenges. 10 minutes is spent on abs, buns & thighs. You can choose to do all of them or one of them when you get a spare 10 minutes. The exercises are great and you can feel the burn in all your muscles. If you do this video 3-5 times a week and eat a healthy diet, you'll easily lose inches and tighten up those "loose" areas.

Targeted Toning Segments With Cardio
Denise Austin's Tone and Tighten DVD features a cardio workout, followed by targeted toning segments, ending with a Mind-Body cooldown. The cooldown segments features stretches reminscent of Tai-Chi practices.

The Cardio routine is set on the coastline of Hawaii, overlooking the blue waters of the island. The moves to the cardio segment are reminiscent of some of Denise's older workouts: grapevine, cha-cha, and knee lifts. If you are an experienced home exerciser, there will be no surprises here. If you are new to working out at home, be sure to watch this segment through once to learn the steps.

The targeted toning sections include: abs, buns, and thighs. Each toning segment has a beginning and an advanced workout, so you can keep using this DVD as you increase your fitness level. The toning segments use in-home items such as chairs and a towel, so there is no additional exercise equipment needed. Bear in mind, however, that just because you are working an area of the body does not mean that you will necessarily lose fat from that area. Toning exercises have to be combined with cardio workouts and a low-calorie diet to see results. Just doing these toning exercises is not the whole picture to toning those "problem" areas.

While this is not a new workout, it is an effectively packaged one. The segments are easy to access on the DVD, and they build intensity, so you don't stop using it once your fitness level increases. This is a great workout for a beginner, or an intermediate level workout. However, it is not a complete fitness routine all on one disc. It is a good complement to an existing routine that includes stretching, strenth training, and cardio workouts.

not that bad!!!
i liked it a lot-but i also have to say that i skipped that aerobic workout completely. i've been to several aerobics classes before but it still was really hard to catch up on what she was doing. so i prefer to work out on the elliptical trainer or something like that and then do her exercises. i think the exercises are great and i really feel something happening in those wobbly abs :-)
now, if you want a exercise video to do some aerobic workout at home-no, don't buy it. if you just want the exercises-go for it.
she's really going to motivate you!!!

Likable, but a little confusing at first
Denise Austin hit the spot tone and tighten dvd is a good dvd, the cardio option is 20 minutes long, which is ok, but I would like something a little longer. It starts out easy(by easy I mean easy to follow) but then she gets into this grapevine, crossover, jump thing that I just can't pick up, maybe that is just me though. Thankfully that step is more towards the end. The exercises for the legs, butt and abs are really good though. My muscles burned, but didn't hurt after the workout was over.
The cardio could be better, I wanted a harder longer sweat, but the target exercises although few, were excellent. The best part is she offers a basic and intermediat for each target exercise. My advise is to do the basic first. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Denise Austin's Hit the Spot: Tone and Tighten combines several workouts from the Hit the Spot series to create a complete body workout in one DVD. This format is convenient because it hosts 20 minutes of low-impact aerobics plus six workouts that train the abs, buns, and thighs. These workouts are called chapters and are trained in 10-minute sessions. Intermediate and beginning programs are presented for each of the three body parts. That means workouts for the abs, buns, and thighs that will accommodate a variety of fitness levels and personal goals. As improved strength and stamina are gained, participants can advance from the easier to the more difficult sets. Austin utilizes simple movements and isometric exercises that are designed to increase lean muscle. While the workout is underway, some great training and weight loss suggestions are given. The information continues with an Ask Denise forum, health tips, and recipe chapters. This genuinely informative and effective program offers a safe regimen that will suit a wide spectrum of levels. Although good cues are given, extra attention should be given to body alignment and proper form when executing deep lunges and some of the more advanced abdominal work. If used with repetition, this one-stop workout can increase muscle tone and cardiovascular fitness. --Olivia Voigts ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Best exercise dvd I have found!!
this is one of the best exercise dvd's i have ever used. i actually look forward to exercising during the week while my child naps.

all the toning segments make me feel like i'm getting kicked into shape. i do both levels of fitness each day on the abs, buns, and thighs. the 10 minute segments are great for anyone who can't find time to exercise, or who have limited time because of small children.

as for the cardio, i found it to be effective. it actually is about 25 minutes long. the moves are easy to follow as long as you are trying. she does give instructions on what's going on.

as far as someone saying they wished denise would say "this is what we're going to do", and then do it, that's what kathy smith videos are for. the cardio workout was easy for me to follow! i would recommend to those who are starting up an exercise program after a year or more without, to sit through the cardio workout and watch the moves before doing it. that way, you'll know what to expect.

denise gives me the motivation and encouragement to stick with the program that i can't give myself. i stick with the program since i feel accountable to denise and myself if i miss a day of exercise. consistency is what gives results.

all you need are a mat or large rug(or carpeted area), a chair, a pillow, and a towel.

Great For People With Not Much Time
If you're looking for a video that doesn't take a lot of time, then this is one that you should add to your collection. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or have been doing this stuff for years, there are two levels to suit both challenges. 10 minutes is spent on abs, buns & thighs. You can choose to do all of them or one of them when you get a spare 10 minutes. The exercises are great and you can feel the burn in all your muscles. If you do this video 3-5 times a week and eat a healthy diet, you'll easily lose inches and tighten up those "loose" areas.

Targeted Toning Segments With Cardio
Denise Austin's Tone and Tighten DVD features a cardio workout, followed by targeted toning segments, ending with a Mind-Body cooldown. The cooldown segments features stretches reminscent of Tai-Chi practices.

The Cardio routine is set on the coastline of Hawaii, overlooking the blue waters of the island. The moves to the cardio segment are reminiscent of some of Denise's older workouts: grapevine, cha-cha, and knee lifts. If you are an experienced home exerciser, there will be no surprises here. If you are new to working out at home, be sure to watch this segment through once to learn the steps.

The targeted toning sections include: abs, buns, and thighs. Each toning segment has a beginning and an advanced workout, so you can keep using this DVD as you increase your fitness level. The toning segments use in-home items such as chairs and a towel, so there is no additional exercise equipment needed. Bear in mind, however, that just because you are working an area of the body does not mean that you will necessarily lose fat from that area. Toning exercises have to be combined with cardio workouts and a low-calorie diet to see results. Just doing these toning exercises is not the whole picture to toning those "problem" areas.

While this is not a new workout, it is an effectively packaged one. The segments are easy to access on the DVD, and they build intensity, so you don't stop using it once your fitness level increases. This is a great workout for a beginner, or an intermediate level workout. However, it is not a complete fitness routine all on one disc. It is a good complement to an existing routine that includes stretching, strenth training, and cardio workouts.

not that bad!!!
i liked it a lot-but i also have to say that i skipped that aerobic workout completely. i've been to several aerobics classes before but it still was really hard to catch up on what she was doing. so i prefer to work out on the elliptical trainer or something like that and then do her exercises. i think the exercises are great and i really feel something happening in those wobbly abs :-)
now, if you want a exercise video to do some aerobic workout at home-no, don't buy it. if you just want the exercises-go for it.
she's really going to motivate you!!!

Likable, but a little confusing at first
Denise Austin hit the spot tone and tighten dvd is a good dvd, the cardio option is 20 minutes long, which is ok, but I would like something a little longer. It starts out easy(by easy I mean easy to follow) but then she gets into this grapevine, crossover, jump thing that I just can't pick up, maybe that is just me though. Thankfully that step is more towards the end. The exercises for the legs, butt and abs are really good though. My muscles burned, but didn't hurt after the workout was over.
The cardio could be better, I wanted a harder longer sweat, but the target exercises although few, were excellent. The best part is she offers a basic and intermediat for each target exercise. My advise is to do the basic first. ... Read more