Reviews (5)

Decent basic toning
This is the 4th Leslie Sansone tape I've bought. Together with the '2-mile walk', it makes a decent 1 hour workout. This tape has some of the same participants of '2-mile walk' and, like that video, has the participants working at different levels. This tape is more no-nonsense than her other tapes in that she doesn't interact at all with the participants.

There are good exercises for thighs, hips, arms, and abs, but little for shoulders, calves, and back. Form is stressed throughout the video, but bad form is used for some of the ab exercises. The participants sometimes show appallingly bad form, which may be confusing to a beginner.

The warm-up is inadequate and the stretching is almost nonexistent in this video, so be prepared to do these on your own.

Excellent all-around toning video!
I use this video in conjunction with Leslie's 1 mile walk and they work well together. The video is challenging and is no-nonsense in its approach -- Leslie gets to work quickly without hype or fanfare. I also like the fact that some of the class have lost and are continuing to lose weight. In order words, they are real people not perfect looking models, which I found encouraging. In the beginning of the tape, some of them share their weight loss success stories. All in all, I give this tape five stars!

Great for a beginner; Firm Off Weight is better
I got this video, and was dissapointed. The music was good, but Leslie only does one set of reps in this video. Firm Off Weight she does 2, so if you are more of an intermediate fitness level, don't bother with this one.

I did like how she has one exerciser using an exertube, instead of the weights. I used mine with this workout, and felt it more that way. I wish I would have gotten this video, when I was a beginner, instead of later since it was too easy for me.

Firm Up Fast
IT'S GREAT! I have "wasted" money on other exercise videos and am SO GLAD I found Leslie! The exercises are interesting and she actually knows how to count (haha). The girls that are on the video with her are average run-of-the-mill girls so you don't feel like you'll never be "like them". I have the In Home Walking video of hers and alternate with the Firm up Fast. I just ordered four more Leslie tapes. I'll never waste money on another so called Exercise Queen again. Leslie, Leslie, Leslie, she's great!

She makes exercise fun. No more "CAN'T KEEP UP OR FOLLOW" dance stuff. Let's Walk With Leslie!

great toning tape
I have used many toning tapes that move too fast or are just too hard to do. In Leslie's usual way, this tape does it all and is easy for anyone to do. She does exercises that tone your arms, abs, chest, legs, you name it and you get it in this tape. It uses slow moves (which are proved to be most effective), all within 30 minutes. I am totally satisfied with this tape and can guarantee that I will use it at least three times a week (as she suggested). GREAT TAPE ... Read more

Description

They’ll sweat like never before as TAEBO 2 motivates and guides followers through the ultimate total body workout.Explode to the next level of physical performance sales. ... Read more

Product Description

Getting ready for a special event, a Spring wedding or that school reunion? Let the Minna Emergency Workout be your guide to the quickest and safest way to lose weight and tone your body in just 6 weeks. ... Read more

Reviews (61)

Wonderful workout!
I was looking for something to get me excited about working out. (I fell into a slump of no working out after abdominal surgery). This was just what I needed. I find myself doing the tape sometimes twice a day b/c the cardio is almost like mini dance routines. Very Fun!

Minna is fun to watch and easy to understand. I don't feel like I am trying to "keep up" with her. If I do miss a step the workout is easy enough to jump right back in. I really like the toning part of the tape b/c I have never been into lifting weights, but I noticed results(especially upper body strength) after about 2 weeks of doing this tape, that was motivation enough for me.

All the combinations flow really well with the music and help to keep me in step. It took about 2 weeks to get the tape down to where I was always in step, but it was fun learning. I will definatly buy another one of Minna's tapes.

This Video
I bought this video Emergency Workout because I had purchased Minna's previous video - Fat Eliminator and loved it! I think that I need to keep trying this workout to get all the steps down correctly. She is a great motivator and she lets you know the steps before she starts the sequence. The first section "Cardio" is full of dance steps.A little tricky at first but worth it! She encourages you to "let go and have fun". The latin music makes the time fly by. The second part "Toning" is strength training and toning combined. To get the maximum benefits I recommend doing both parts of the tape for the full hour to get the full burn! Minna is great and not the typical "cheerleader" instructor! I'm sure after a few weeks of completing this program daily I will see results.

A Great Investment
Minna's Emergency Workout is aimed at people who have an event they would like to look good for and claims that you will see results in 6 weeks. This tape can be used by anybody. The tape is divided into two workouts: a 30 minute cardio workout and a 30 minute toning workout. The cardio section is great fun. Minna combines traditional aerobics moves (like grapevines, V-steps, and jumping jacks) with dancier moves (like salsa lunges, mambos, and cha chas). This helps those of us with two left feet feel like we're dancing while not overwhelming us. Minna's cuing is excellent and she is upbeat without being overly perky. Her two assistants look like their having fun, and I definitely have fun and sweat when doing the workout.

The toning workout uses multi-muscle moves to target common problem areas: abs, legs, butt, and arms (for example combing front lateral raises with stationary lunges). One of Minna's strongest points is that she explains the moves and proper posture. She also cues very well and prepares you for changes.

Included with the video is a 6 week intensive care diet planner which has a sample workout schedule, fit tips, menus, success tips, and nutrition tips.

Minna's program is very sensible. It covers cardiovascular fitness, weight training, and good nutrition which are essential for creating a healthier, confident you. I've only started the program but I feel that it is a program I can stick to and that will help me get the results I want.

Favorite Cardio Workout
This has to be one of my new favorite cardio workouts. The DVD is divided into a cardio workout and a toning workout (which I haven't tried yet). I wanted a cardio workout that would be fun and a little different. There are some salsa moves, mumbas, etc. that are really fun without being too difficult. Even my husband jumped up and started doing the workout with me and thought it was fun although he did say he was glad the guys at work couldn't see him!

I found the moves pretty easy to follow yet I worked up a good sweat. It doesn't even matter if you're doing all the moves correctly as long as you're moving and having a good time. I love Minna in the fact that she's cute but not so bubbly she drives you crazy. I would highly recommend this video.

My favorite!
This is by far my favorite exercise video I've tried thus far. The first 30 minutes is a cardio segment that is actually fun to do and is over before you know it. Minna is one of the few aerobics instructors who is actually pleasant to watch and follow and doesn't even annoy me in the early morning workouts. The second 30 minutes are a great toning exercise and putting the two together makes for a workout you can be proud of. Highly recommend it! ... Read more

Reviews (69)

I love this tape!
My youngest child is 2 months old, and I've been working hard at getting back in shape for about the last 6 weeks. I'd been doing TaeBo and one of Kathy's older videos (Fat Burning Workout), and was getting bored and wanting to try something a little more challenging. I got my wish with this tape! It is seperated into 2 waves of aerobics plus weights, and each wave is divided into 3 zones of intensity plus a recovery zone. The first few times I did this video, I had to take a break in zone 3(highest intensity) - those side lunges are wicked! But today was the fourth time I've done the video and I was able to do the entire routine. I like that it is seperated into two sections like her Timesaver videos, good for days when I'm crunched for time. Some of the moves are a bit tricky to pick up though; I got a bit frustrated with it, and finally advanced the video in slow motion to see how she was doing one step that involves straddling the step and turning your back to the TV. But once I got it down it was a lot of fun! The only other problem that I had with it is some of the camera angles; the camera is always slowly moving around the set and slowly zooming in and out which does keep it interesting, but there are one or two points where Kathy is starting to demonstrate a new step and her feet are not in the frame; also, it says on the box that a step is optional, but the one member of her crew who is not using a step is rarely in the frame so the slight modifications necessary could be a little tougher to do until you have the workout down. These things are not really a problem once you have done the tape a couple times, but that's the only thing that kept me from giving it 5 stars. A great workout!

Fun and Fast Workout
I just purchased this workout tape having only purchased one other before (Kathy Smith's Power Step Workout) and I love it. I have been using one step video for about 4 months and this new one is a lot faster, but once you get the hang of it the faster pace is more enjoyable. The outdoor landscape is a fresh new look and the workout is both versatile and fun to do. You control how intense your workout is and can choose between the first wave, the second wave, or both. While I still use my old tape this new one has become my favorite. It just seems to be less mundane and with more movement than the last. I feel like I am getting a better workout.

All over the place...
I used to be a huge fan of step. However my body rejected it after I had my son. This particur tape has a lower rating than I usually give Kathy Smith. She still has the same upbeat attitude that I love. I do think that this tape have difficult choreography. It is definitely for someone who is an advanced stepper. The scenery in this video is beautiful and the atmosphere is serene. Don't get caught up in the background, stay focused because Kathy has you all over the place.

Very good, challenging workout
This was a fairly challenging workout. She does move fairly quickly through the steps, but I didn't find it hard to follow. However, I do have Kathy Smith's Power Step workout, and many of the moves are taken from there. The Power Step workout moves more slowly, so if you learn that one first, this one is pretty easy to follow.

I didn't really like the weight lifting segments. They aren't long enough to actually build any muscle mass or tone, and they cause your heart rate to drop right in the middle of the workout. The aerobic part is great, though.

Don't run before you can walk!
Like other reviewers, I have several of Kathy's exercise videos, and enjoy them all. I personally find them pretty easy to complete, enabling me to work on form and increasing the intensity if I feel up to it.

However, I boldly popped this tape in one day and found myself reduced to absolute beginner level! It certainly brought me down a peg or two, until I took the time to review the moves thoroughly before attempting the workout again.

The warm-up itself is fairly vigorous. It's quicker physically than Kathy's others. Then comes the first "wave". You start off fairly slowly and build through 3 zones. By the third you really feel it, but then you're treated to a recovery stage which feels wonderful. Weights follow, then the next wave, again with 3 levels of increasing intensity, and a recovery. The routine ends with a few more weights, abs, a cooldown and finally a stretch.

The choreography is certainly more complex than Kathy's other videos and is doesn't help when you're trying to learn moves which involve you turning away from your TV set. Still, perservere and you'll find you can do it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The beginning of Tai Chi for Arthritis introduces the arthritic senior-citizen members of Paul Lam's Australian tai chi class, who share their stories of increased range of motion and resulting enjoyment of life thanks to the positive effects of exercise. Lam, a Sydney physician and international tai chi champion, personally vouches for the ancient practice, which reversed the debilitating effects of his own arthritis. Then the class follows an hour-long program of warm-ups, stretches, and 12 movements that increase muscle tone and joint movement for the arthritic. These consist of six basic movements, six more advanced movements, and a separate demonstration by Lam without verbal instruction for those ready for a more fluid daily practice. Lam also introduces a set of qigong exercises for arthritis, explaining that the Chinese believe that the sluggish flow of Qi--the Chinese word for energy--is a major cause of arthritis. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (2)

To many people
The introduction they could have done with out and Dr. Lam has people to help show the movements. Way to much distraction when there are that many people in a video. I didn't learn a thing from it.

Good excecise but not easy to follow
This is my first Tai Chi video so I have nothing to compare with. Overall, I liked the excercies and I liked how he broke every move into multiple segments to make sure the viewers get it. But his explaination of each move is not very clear and sometimes lacks details. For example, he should point out when a movement requires shifting weight or bending knees. These details are ommitted from time to time. He also needs to incorporate more breathing instructions into the movements. I was able to follow it, but my mom (whom I bought the DVD for) was confused by the instructions. ... Read more

Description

"Total fitness is easy as 1-2-3 with this captivating and easy-to-use DVD.Choose between energizing low-impact cardio, highly effective weight training routines, and yoga moves that focus on flexibility, balance and core strength.You'll have just what you need to get leaner, stronger and more flexible." ... Read more

Reviews (8)

How can you miss this great workout
This is one of the most challenging workout DVD I own. It comprises of 2 workouts namely Strong and Smooth Moves and Streamline Fitness.

For Strong and Smooth Moves workout, Karen starts us with a 9 minutes warmup before getting us into a vigorous 25 minutes low impact cardio. I must say that this 25 minutes is a real challenge initially. However after doing it a few times, the cardio session became fun and easy. After each vigorous 25 minutes, I always feels energized and lighter in my body weight.

Karen then moves on to strength training. I used a 5Ibs dumbbell and at the end of a few workouts, my biceps muscles became obvious. Even my friends spotted it and see the difference in my body shape.

Follow by is some tummy workouts and more strength training on the floor.

The workout ends with a 5 minutes stretching that will really relaxs you.

Streamline Fitness is a body sculpting workout. Great if you are trying to firm up your body especially your tummy and lower body. It started with some light warm up and follows by sculpting of upper body, lower body, tummy and back. Karen uses a 3Ibs genie ball but since I do not own one, I substitute with a 5 pounds dumbbell and it works just as fine for me.

I love the option where I could mix and match my own workout. Cardio is a must for me and thus there are days I would mix cardio with the sculpting sessions instead of strength training. Some days, I do only cardio and stretch while other days, I concentrate soley on Streamline fitness.

This is really a great workout DVD not to be missed. Go for it.

How good is this??
I expect this isn't higher up the charts as everyone is rushing off to buy *Ultimate Circuit*. But this is terrific, it really is, and doesn't use any cumbersome equipment like a Swiss Ball (do people really have room for those at home?). It does use a weighted balance stick and ball weights, but shows you how to subsitute a chair and handweights - which I, and I imagine very many users of this tape, do without any problems whatsoever. My favourite thing about this DVD is that you can mix and match segments from the two workouts; for example, my preferred combo is the cardio warmup followed by the short (but unusual and interesting) cardio burst, then the half hour strength, then the short sculpt and then the stretch, which adds up to just over an hour, whereas my pal likes to do the longer low impact cardio followed by the yoga segment. Something for everyone. And Karen has the best body ever; it is so good I am beyond envy. Buy, buy, buy.

A great Workout DVD you must own
I own quite a few workout DVD from different fitness instructors but the ones that keeps me motivated, fit and slim are the ones from Karen Voight. After working out using her DVD, Strong & Streamline for 3 months, 3-4 times a week, I dropped 2 dress sizes. It really amazing. Her workout targets every part of your body and for this DVD, Karen's workout on legs and butt is really effective. Great for those of you who need to shed off some fats around these areas of your body. For those who yearns to have flat tummy, this is also the DVD you should not give it a miss.

This one's a winner!
This was the first Karen Voight DVD I'd purchased and I have become a huge fan. Karen is an excellent instructor and very inspiring - if for nothing else than her own personal fitness and sculpting. Her approach is encouraging and motivating without the self-absorption I've been turned off by in other DVD instructors. While I admit that the "Strong and Smooth Moves" portion is challenging at first, it doesn't take long to catch onto her routine and it has had the added effect of improving my coordination. With a little persistence and practice, it is a good workout. My favourite portion of the DVD, however, has become the "Streamline Fitness" workout - a routine I really look forward to. I started without any weights at all (using body resistance) while traveling and continually in hotel rooms and yet still saw results. At home, I use weights and the new sculpting I see of my body energizes me to keep with the routine almost daily. I have worked out a lot in my life, but never have I attained the streamlined sculpting that Karen's workout has brought me to. At 41 I look better in a bikini than I did at 20! Abs...arms...legs...bum...if you stay with this, you will see results, too. Perhaps that is why I haven't gotten tired of this DVD...that, as well as the good pacing and Karen Voight's matter-of-fact, get-down-to-business, yet patient and empathetic style. This is my #1 choice for my workout routine and I know I look better now than friends who go routinely to the gym - and in less time. The "Streamline Fitness" chapter begins with a 7-minute warm-up then moves into arms, legs and buttocks with weights. If you are pressed for time, you can stop here after 30 minutes and do the 30-minute abs and yoga stretches later in your day or continue on with the abs - a most excellent routine that produces real definition. This is followed by a good yoga cool down (although still challenging). A real winner all the way around!

Not her best, but very good anyway
I think she is the best at form, athleticism, and weight training. I always get something from her and she is always doing new moves that are TOUGH! ... Read more

Description

If you’re ready to begin feeling more relaxed and energized, Lilias! Yoga 101 Workout For Beginners is the right place to start.Lilias Folan, acclaimed yoga expert and popular star of her own PBS-TV series, is your personal instructor for this beginner program. Lilias! Yoga Workout for Beginners will enhance your breathing capacity and help you reduce stress and muscle tension no matter what your age, current level of fitness, or knowledge of yoga.Join Lilias and her easy-to-follow program to start your day with energy and enthusiasm and to end your day feeling renewed and free from built-up tension.Experience the wonderful benefits of lasting health & vitality with yoga.Yoga welcomes you at any age of fitness level.Yoga will help you feel great!Let Lilias Folan be your guide to its timeless joys.She will show you new ways to increase energy, fitness and relaxation.As America’s favorite yoga expert, and star of her PBS-TV series, Lilias has introduced thousands of people to the wonderful benefits of Yoga.Whether you are just starting with Yoga or wish to experience more of its benefits, this is the perfect video for you.This new video package combines four of Lilias’ best PBS programs to provide anyone with a solid foundation in Yoga.Program One demonstrates easy ways to begin Yoga and teaches viewers warm up stretching, breathing and relaxation exercises needed to get started.Program Two introduces props to maximize the benefits of various Yoga moves.Combined with additional exercises this program will show you to enhance relaxation while still increasing your fitness level.Program Three shows how to balance strength with flexibility and improve energy with stretches and moves for every part of the body.Finally, Program Four focuses on using Yoga techniques to generate inner happiness and well being along with improved strength and energy. Designed to stretch, gently strengthen and relax the entire body, Yoga is a proven method to achieve lasting health and soften the aging process.This specially priced series will give you a complete introduction to Yoga and help you feel fabulous after one session.Let Lilias’ inviting personality motivate you to discover what it is like to look and feel your best! ... Read more

Description

Let David Carradine guide you through beginning and basic Chi Kung and Tai Chi exercises that remove tension, stress and pent-up emotions from the mind, while also increasing your flow of energy.You will also gently tone, stretch and oxygenate the muscles of the body while feeling thoroughly relaxed, rejuvenated and energized. This program includes awe-inspiring nature footage with the beautiful music of John Serrie and was choreographed by Doctor of Chi Kung, Arnold E. Tayam.Tai Chi has proven to be one of the most powerful, yet gentle ways to rejuvenate the body and maintain and restore health.The Chinese believe that one’s health and vitality is directly influenced by the flow of one’s internal energy.This flow of energy can be easily enhanced by combining smooth and circular body movements with mental relaxation and focus.This is the essence of Tai Chi and this program is devoted to the simplicity of this essence.Chi Kung literally means "energy skill" and was created 5000 years ago in ancient China as a way to find inner peace, harmony, strength and health.The Chinese believe that the mind, body, emotions, and the spirit are all components of energy or "chi".This chi affects not only our physical health but our mental and spiritual well being.In essence, inner harmony and mental focus are not just achieved by understanding, but also through efficient, simple and gentle exercises. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

5 STAR ! ! ! !
I am reviewing this DVD for a second time after using it regularly for 2 months. This is my favorite of the three Tai Chi DVD's currently available by David Carradine. You get two full 1-hour practices on this DVD; it is well worth the money. The menu's are excellent, you can start in any part of the practice that you like. There are several people in the class, including David Carradine at the front of the class, but Arnold Tayam is the instructor. The backdrop is superimposed nature footage, which is a beautiful addition to the class instruction.

The first practice is called Chi Kung workout and concentrates on working with your internal, chi energies. The second is the Tai Chi beginner's workout. Each practice starts out with a brief introduction, then a warm-up/stretching to get you ready for the practice. With the Tai Chi workout you start by learning and repeating each individual stance, then you move on to a slow method of connecting these individual stances. At the end you learn to flow everything together. I started out by just working on the individual stances and once I learned those, I moved on to the next practices. The Chi Kung workout is terrific. I've really learned to feel that magnetic, chi energy in this practice. After this practice I feel so centered and balanced. It is very gentle on your body, but will help to make you feel strong internally. I follow the movements as a mirror image, which is backwards from how it is directed, but works well for me.

Additionally, you can workout to music without the narration and you also get a few songs off David Carradines' CD ... Read more

Reviews (54)

Great cardio with hand weights; hokey sets and outfits
You will burn calories while simultaneously toning your arm and leg muscles, but don't buy this 60-minute video if you are bothered by dated sets (1990) or gross thong outfits. The shifting back and forth from black outfits to colorful ones, the changing camera angles, and the silly turquoise sheet waving around in the back to look like water can get pretty annoying after a while. But if you ignore those problems and focus on the workout, you will work up a good sweat, lose weight, and tone up the muscles of your upper and lower body with this fast-moving, dancy video. I do like Kathy Smith's "Functionally Fit Peak Fat Burning Workout," "Step Workout," "Power Step Workout," and "Peak Fat Burning Breakthrough" better -- her tapes keep getting better as she gets older. If you want a shorter (half-hour) tape that combines cardio with hand weights, "Crunch - Cardio/Sculpt" is excellent.

Excellent Workout!
I decided to buy this video after reading the favorable reviews on it here. I must say the positive reviews were accurate. This is a good calorie burner that's quite fun to do. I like how parts of the routine are done using weights (though you can still do them without weights if you so choose). On this video Kathy Smith changes scenery (and clothing) from time to time within the same routine (a cool editing effect). This helps keep you from getting bored watching the same setting throughout the whole routine. This is labeled as an intermediate-level routine, but it isn't that tough to follow. Still, if you are just starting out with exercise, you may want to use her "March to Fitness" tape first to build yourself up to this one.

By the way, don't let an unfavorable review which characterizes this tape as merely a compiling of clips from old tapes scare you away from this one. That characterization is simply not true. This is a totally unique tape, and one that I'm glad I now have in my fitness collection.

Sweat into the 90s
I hesitated when I bought this dvd, because it did not get very good ratings. However, I LOVE IT!!!! I am a huge Kathy Smith fan and I would have to say it is one of my favorites. Before this dvd, I would do her cardio kickboxing 4 times a week. I think that this dvd is as good of a work out as her cardio kickboxing, which is saying a lot. I agree with the other reviewers that it is very out dated, but I think that makes it fun and it's still a hard work out. If you like Kathy Smith and were wondering what happened to go ol' aerobics; this is the dvd for you.

I've seen better from Kathy
Kathy Smith usually does outstanding videos, but this one is not. The warm-up was good, besides the fact that there was some editing glitches. The next section focused on upper body and you will need some weights to do this (3-5lb). This section was also OK. However, the four aerobic sections made me sweat but I thought were difficult to follow. The moves and arms were not easy to do and everything seemed disjointed. The moves just didn't flow together. These routines were a little outdated.
The leg sections were adequate, not the best I've seen from Kathy. You would be better off buying some other of her DVD's, although this will make you sweat.

Buy something else
I have just received this DVD and have not been able to keep it on my DVD player. I have fast forwarded trying to see if it gets any better but am quite disappointed. The music, the set, the moves even, are much too cheesy and annoying. I give it one star because cueing from Kathy is great, as usual, and the division into sections is also practical. That is, if you keep it playing long enough without being annoyed by the rest of it. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Intermediate Speed, Classic Exercises
"Common don't quit!" ~Gay Gasper

Gay Gasper is an internationally known fitness presenter who loves exercise and has been teaching for over 19 years. She has appeared in 27 fitness workouts and has a high-energy style. Each movement has a purpose and she doesn't waste anytime between exercises. This is why I'm going to say this might be intermediate. If you have been exercising for a few months, and are familiar with the use of dumbbells then you might be ready for this workout.

Some favorite features:

15-minute Workouts for Abs, Arms, Buns and Thighs
The countdown clock - motivation to keep going to the last minute

Aerobic sections between the weight lifting - This makes the workout feel like an interval training style workout. If you do all the exercises one after the other.

Challenging modifications for advanced users - you can add weights at some point.
Icons - Jargon alert, Myth Buster, Tips, Beware and Remember Icon.

If you are looking for a nice challenge, you can do all the 15-minute workouts and make your way through all 26 toning and shaping exercises. If you want to take exercise breaks throughout the day or just want to spend 15 minutes each day - that is also an option.

The tips were interesting and Gay gives advice like using a sponge mop for balance.

The music is highly motivating, the set is uncluttered and Gay's personality and voice are pleasant and inspirational. She also uses humor throughout the exercises. Her professional attitude towards exercise makes you feel confident and you can really trust her advice.

What will you need?

A space large enough to do lunges
Two sets of weights.

You could use 3-5 lb weights or even start with smaller weights and in a few weeks you will notice you are ready to move onto heavier weights. 3lb weights sounded right to me, but they say you can use two eight-pound dumbbells. It is better to work slowly into using weights and see gradual results. I started with one-pound weights and in about 30 weeks I was up to using 3-5lb weights. I no longer believe that faster is better. If it takes you 30 weeks to get to a point where you are really proud of yourself and you are keeping with an exercise program, then that beats a quick fix any day.

15-Minute Workouts for Dummies might even become a staple in your exercise video collection. I loved it and will keep doing this workout because it is highly motivational and the exercises are very effective. You are increasing muscle that eventually helps you to burn more calories each day. If I am ever having trouble feeling motivated to exercise, I just put this video in the VCR and within minutes I'm in the mood to burn some calories.

~TheRebeccaReview.com

P.S. You might also enjoy Basic Yoga for Dummies with Sara Ivanhoe. She is also an instructor in Candlelight Yoga which
is one of my absolute favorite evening treats before bed. I feel soooo relaxed after Candlelight Yoga. It is also especially beautiful with all the candles.

Absolutely NOT for the beginner
Dummies. The series is supposed to be for people who have no experience and want to be brought up to speed. Well, unless your an athlete and a dancer, forget about being able to follow along with these. I bought a TamiLee Title, and it is just awesome, but I am sending this back. The exercises are done at an incredible break-neck speed, and the camera angles vary constantly so it's impossible to see what she is doing. The video IS entertaining I admit, it's funny to watch someone working out so fast, but for someone who wants a serious beginners workout video, go get a TamiLee video. Because of the speed of the presenter, she has placed speed over accuracy. I just stood there ready to throw something at the TV. If you're a regular Gym bunny and are used to the super-fast dance style moves, you'll love it. If your a newbie who wants something to get them motivated, this is not for you.

Outstanding
This is absolutely the best workout video I've ever owned. Broken into 15-minute chunks that fit the little cracks in my daily schedule, these workouts are fun and rewarding.

My favorite is the abs workout. I also own the Ab Workouts For Dummies video, and I figured this segment of the 15 minute tape would just duplicate the other video. I was thrilled to see that it was a new ab workout. Sure, every ab workout is going to have a few variations on crunches, there's no getting around that. But there were several new exercises included, and the presentation was completely different.

I've been recommending this video to just about everybody I know. If you want a great workout that's fun and fits your schedule, give this one a shot.

As good as it gets for a hard core couch potato like me
I am the queen of unused workout equipment and DVDs. I've spent hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars on equipment that I used once or twice, if ever, however I really liked this DVD. I found it to be really easy to follow, but I felt the burn. The workouts were the perfect length for me. Just when I was thinking about giving up Gay Gasper would remind me that it's supposed to be hard and that's the only way to get a gorgeous, lean body. Frequent acknowledgement of what I was going through made me feel a lot better about it. After the first time I tried the thighs workout, my legs hurt for days, but I found a certain amount of satisfaction in my soreness. The next time I tried it it was already slighty easier, but Gay Gasper offers lots of suggestion on how to make the workouts more or less challenging. While my legs recovered I worked my arms, abs, etc. The exercises were really simple, basically just squats, lunges, crunches , curls and a few others, I probably could have figured it out w/o the DVD but I prefer having someone on the screen to follow. I know some people say the host, Gay Gasper, is annoyingly cheery, but I liked her. This would probably be too easy for someone already exercising, but if you're a workout "dummie" like me, this might be just the thing to get you started.

Short Toning Workouts
This series of 15 minute workouts is good for toning. There is a section each for thighs, arms using hand weights, glutes which is mostly exercises on the floor, and abs. Each session has a good warm up (better than most quick toning workouts) that lasts for about five minutes and actually increases my heart rate. The exercises are simple and easy to execute. There are modifications to make them easier as well as harder though they usually just involve either using a chair or adding weights respectively. The exercises are quite repetitive and do get a little boring, but they are effective.

I found the little tips that come up on the screen using the icons like in a "for dummies" books somewhat annoying. Then information was mostly obvious or at least things that I had heard before many times, and sometimes it comes up when I was doing exercises on the floor and had no real way to read it anyway. I'm sure that part of the DVD will get annoying quickly, and once I learn the moves I'll listen to my own soundtrack. All in all, these workouts (two or so at a time) make a great addition to my cardio routine. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

stress relief?
This tape does not relieve stress in my opinion. The practice is fast paced and people with previous injuries may re-injure themselves as I did. I was interested in a tape for stress relief, relaxation,and strength to recover from many injuries. I did not find it in this video. I did not feel relaxed or destressed. In fact, I was anxious because the flow was too fast for me and I could not keep up with the instructor. I was pausing the tape frequently to go into poses correctly,and no modifications were instructed. I used the props and did the exercises incorrectly.Definately not a beginners tape. I actually found more instruction and modification in a yoga book. I have developed my own practice with fantastic results.

Good content but packaging was a bit misleading
The actual yoga practice on this DVD is beneficial but entirely too brief, in my opinion. the actual practice is only 20 minutes. The cover notes say there is a total of 1 hour and 5 minutes of content. The rest is an interview with Susan Deason and a "how to" section for using yoga props. This is a very mild practice and using the props is very easy and really doesn't require any extra help. I couldn't care less about an interview with Susan Deason.

The "special edition" DVD I bought was also supposed to include a 60 minute pilates workout with three 45 minute variations. If those on on this DVD, they didn't include a selection button on the DVD menu. A bit disappointing.

It Really Works!
I usually do not have the attention span for or any interest in yoga, but this DVD really does work. I recently went through a very stressful period, and doing this DVD really helped calm my nerves. I feel totally relaxed after doing it. I recommend it to anyone who needs help relaxing. It's easy, it's quick, and it works!!!

Wonderful Stress Relief Practice
This yoga practice is perfect to do after you wind down for the day or before heading off to work (I would suggest maybe starting with a few sun salutations to warm up the body before beginning in order to get a good stretch). The cueing is great and even though the practice is only 20 minutes you go through a lot of different poses: Triangle, forward bend, warrior I, downward dog, side stretch. I would reccomend this video to anyone who wants to unwind and relax. ... Read more

Product Description

Kathy Smith's Kickboxing DVD includes customized workouts, multi-angle tutorials, 3 special advanced workout segments, Spanish language or music track only options, special interviews with Kathy, and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (187)

Good workout but extras need work
The warm up and actual workout are excellent, lots of variety and fast-paced. The Buns and Thighs Kicking Drills that follow are good information for the beginner but even if you're not, you can still continue to work your legs. The Kickboxing Stances that follow are good information but so slow paced that I advise doing them only if you want to meditate. The Challenge is exactly that. Very advanced moves. Unless you have done martial arts previously in some form, don't try it until you've done the workout a few times. The Cool down stretch is sorely lacking, definitely not one of Kathy's best. I have many of her videos, so I can compare. The Abs and Back Strengthening section is also sorely lacking. The moves are not hard but they won't do anything for your abs and will just annoy your back. Again definitely not one of Kathy's best. More thought should have gone into it. The Tai-Chi Energizer workout is ok, but only the second half of the twelve minutes is Tai-Chi. The first half is some breathing and stretching that shouldn't be done unless you are very warmed up. I was disapponted in this section. All in all I bought this for the actual workout which is the best part, and this is only my opinion. I would recommend it as its shortcomings are only small and short parts.

A good alternative
I bought this video after having exhausted using Billy Blanks' Tae Bo Advanced Tape. This one isn't as difficult, but definitely feels safer and is still pretty aerobic. It's definitely a good video to add to anyone's workout rotation and can be used at any level as far as I can tell. Sometimes the camera angles are a little annoying but once you know what they're doing, you get used to it. And Kathy Smith is much more tolerable than other instructors that I've seen. I definitely recommend this video.

Looking for something fun
When I purchased this video I was in search of something to alternate with the advanced Tae Bo video. I purchased a number of others but couldn't seem to find one that matched the intensity of the Tae Bo,but this one really did. This video,beyond being a fast paced high energy workout, is really fun. Like all of Kathy Smith's videos there is a wonderful cool down and stretch following the workout. There is also a section that focuses on improving kicks that I found to be extremely effective in improving lower body strength and muscle tone.

Great Sweating Workout
I have been dancing with traditional type of aerbic dances for long time, it is difficult to keep motivated without something new!! With this new type of workout, you can really step into it and try something new. Besides that, the intensity of the workout is moderate, it is good for both beginner and intermediate exerciser!! You can train your upper body more with arm moves like jabs and upper cut etc. Instruction is clear and choice of music is good too!! Worth to keep it for yourself!!

Do yourself a favor and rent this before you buy it...
I wish I had. If you are more than moderately overweight, I recommend you pass on this tape. Also, you had better have the ability to move very fast. And the music sucks. Having said that, the moves are well explained and shown in 'slow motion', before kicking off into hyper-speed. This tape does gives you a very good workout. Just be sure kickboxing is your thing. I found out, too late, that it wasn't really mine, which is why I give this tape three stars only. I was flailing around like a beached whale half way through the workout. If kickboxing is your bag, baby, and you are fairly fit, go for it. You'll get some decent exercise, and that is the point after all, isn't it? ... Read more

Amazon.com

With the goal to get kids moving, fitness expert Denise Austin leads preteens in a 20-minute total body workout incorporating elements of dance, hip-hop, sports drills, and yoga. It begins with a six-minute warm up of stretches and lunges, followed by seven minutes of cardio-funk, kick-boxing, and traditional aerobics. The program ends with a strengthening segment of push-ups, abdominal exercises, and beginning yoga. Effervescent Austin provides adequate verbal coaching to a dozen kids who perform the moves.This moderately fast-paced program assumes its participants are fairly fit at the onset and in only a few cases offers reduced levels of participation for varying abilities. No equipment is necessary and minimal space is required in this energetic option for general youth fitness. Don’t miss the DVD’s bonus episode, "Family Fit," a 20-minute workout designed for families to do together. It follows the same format as the "Fit Kids" routine, with the addition of a few exercises that require partnering for resistance training. One segment employs a basketball (or similar sized ball) which is the only equipment necessary. "Quality fitness, doing it together," is Austin’s peppy mantra, which results in a corny but clever way to get families off the couch. (Ages 8 and older) --Lynn Gibson ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not too good for kids
Denise Austin needs to stick with making exercise videos for adults. This video isn't kid friendly, and doesn't have a good feel for kids. To be honest, it is very close to most of Denise's exercise videos for adults. What Denise has forgotten, or may have never known, is kids are kids, and they need to be treated accordingly, and that means with exercise videos to.
A good choice for kids is - Kick to Get Fit Jr. -For Kids, this video is done by a qualified kid's fitness professional, not someone who is just throwing adult type movements at kids, and just hoping they can do them.
My kids are NOT at all happy with this program.There are 6 & 10 years old, and they were bored & turned off by this video within the first 5 minutes, mostly because they didn't understand the movements, and then found most of the other movements very hard to do. Once again, the forgotten point - Kids are kids, and they need to be treated accordingly. One last point, in the video Denise mentions that she received information from a variety of different professionals in the field of children's exercise & fitness. This is all good except they all forgot one VERY IMPORTANT DETAIL,-You MUST be able to teach & instruct children at a level they understand. Just because you know something about exercise, it doesn't mean you are able to teach it to children. Knowledge is one thing - Teaching & Instructing is another, and the fact is, some people are just not very good at instructing children. A point that is very clearly displayed within this program.

Fit Kids
My 5-year-old daughter loves this video!She does both workouts on the video.She didn't do much exercise before, but she absolutely loves this.

GREAT EXERCISE DVD FOR KIDS!!
My girls loved it. There are two 20-minute workouts - one for kids and the other for family. Denise uses stretching, dance moves and aerobics. I don't think kids under five could keep up. Denise coaches through the whole workout. My kids can't wait to exercise again tomorrow. Highly recommended.

Has potential, but would not recommend for beginners
My 5-year-old son begged for this DVD when I bought myself a workout video.Part I is FitKids, which is a kids workout.It is difficult to follow for those not familiar with aerobics.It starts out very fast and doesn't give a lot of instruction on proper technique and form, which I think would be important for a workout video aimed towards kids.The FitFamily section is definitely not aimed at beginners.It is pretty fast paced (from a beginners point of view) and I had a hard time keeping up.My son was bored after about 15min (and I was exhausted!).More exciting music and/or more interaction from the kids in the video would have helped keep his interest. ... Read more

Description

Yoga: Stamina. This inspiring workout will carry you through the day feeling more energized ‹ and give you the reserve power to feel ready for anything in your life that demands steady reserves of strength and energy. Acclaimed instructor Rodney Yee guides you through brisk Vinyasa sequences specifically designed to build your energy reserves. This invigorating workout you can do in less than half an hour includes a warmup featuring fluid, classic Sun Salutations to warm both muscles and mind. Move seamlessly into Rodney Yee¹s distinctive style of Power Yoga in endurance-building sequences that challenge you with a range of motion for your entire body. Conclude with short yet deeply renewing relaxation that leaves you recharged and ready for anything. You¹ll love the way you feel after this great workout as you redisover your body¹s hidden stores of both physical and mental energy. A complete workout filmed on the stunning Maui shore focus breathing and rev up with warming Sun Salutation sequences, boost energy and endurance with stamina-building poses, rebalance body and mind through guided relaxation. ... Read more

Description

The Lilias! AM & PM Yoga Workouts For Seniors finally brings the amazing benefits of yoga to mature adults.Let Lilias teach you the timeless benefits of yoga.Her encouragement and motivating nature will inspire you to use yoga to enhance health, joy and delight in your life.This specially designed program will bring you immediate and lasting benefits:The A.M. YOGA WORKOUT:Liberates Your Natural Energy, Builds Strength and Confidence, Improves Circulation and Range of Motion in Joints, Maintains a Strong Back, Breathing Techniques to Build Energy and Clear the Mind, Prepares you for the Day with Flexibility and Vitality.The P.M. YOGA WORKOUT: Soothes and Strengthens Your Back, Calms Nerves, Uplifts Your Mood, Releases Stress Burrowing in the Jaw, Neck, Shoulders & Back,Dissipates Headaches,Stretches the Entire Body, Maintains Healthy Knees & Joints, Eases You off to Sleep.Let Lilias show you how yoga can unlock your personal energy, teach you to listen to your body and find your inner wisdom.This delightful yoga program is the perfect way to start and end the day.Discover how good you feel with Lilias! AM & PM Yoga Workouts for Seniors ... Read more

Description

Functionally Fit: Peak Fat Burning: Imagine burning fat while sitting at work, picking up the kids from school or fixing dinner.You can!This workout not only burns calories while you exercise, - it also heats up your metabolism to burn more fat for hours afterwards!Just three workouts a week can turn your body into a fut-burning machine! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Good but repetitive
As most of Kathy Smith's workouts, these are very effective but be aware that these 2 DVD's are the exact same as the VHS version of Peak Fat Burning and Lower Body Firming, both of which are great vidoes (I purchased simply to update to the DVD version). The only issue I have with these workouts is similar to what was mentioned in a previous review, the Peak Fat Burning DVD already has a ton of lower body exercises making it hard to rest your lower body muscles if you choose to alternate these videos, which is recommended on the back of the DVD. It would have been great for an upper body work out to be included with the Peak Fat Burning DVD as opposed to a lower body work out. It's just too many lower body workouts.

My favorite workouts
These are by far my favorite workouts and worth owning! They are fun and interesting without being too complicated. I love the intervals in Peak Fat Burning they really make the time fly!

On one of the back sleeves of the DVDs, they suggest doing the Peak Fat Burning 2 to 3 times a week alternating with the Lower Body Firming 2 to 3 times a week. I tried this for about 4 days and found that because I was doing many of the same exercises with the same muscles groups (squats, one-legged sqats) these muscles never got a break.

So, if you're starting out I would recommend starting with the Peak Fat Burning and find a different toning video (e.g. Lower Body Pilates or Lift Weights to Lose Weight) to alternate with. When you have mastered that a bit or want a change switch to a different cardio (e.g. Timesaver Fat Burner or Instant Workout) and use the Lower Body Firming. Hope that helps!

Ultimate Burn & Firm dvd by Kathy Smith
My wife has tried numerous exercise videos and she finds that this is one of the most efficient and versatile.

Fun and Effective!
As already mentioned, this DVD contains Kathy's previous videos; namely: Peak Fat Burning and Lower Body Firming. Peak Fat Burning is an effective interval training workout that combines basic sports/athletic moves with lower body toning. Lower Body Firming promises just that - a time efficient all-standing workout that brings results. It works!

Nice workout change...
I was hesitant to pick up this set because I find Kathy Smith's workouts to not be suited for all fitness levels (specifically, beginners though I consider myself more on the beginner-intermediate level). However, I did and although the workouts are not really suited for beginners (not to mention the modifiers are also kinda advanced) I found that I could keep up at least 98% of the time. I work up a real sweat, and the workouts are done before you know it (which I looooove)!!

Definitely recommended for all the active afecionados; beginners should take a different route (no pun intended). ... Read more

Description

Acclaimed yoga instructor Rodney Yee and his wife, Donna Fone, share their family yoga practice in a genuine yet playful manner from which all ages may benefit. Family Yoga provides parents with a meaningful way to integrate their own yoga practice with precious family time. A great family program for parents seeking connection and balance for their children in a busy world. With Rodney Yee. ... Read more