Reviews (60)

fabulous workout.
Usually when I try to do yoga...the breath cuing is all off...they tell you to breath to counts that NO ONE EVER breathes in and it makes the workout more difficult and not natural.

This video has the best breath cuing I've ever seen. Very precise...and reasonable. The workout itself is fabulous...with interesting variations...a bit of "power yoga" and some medium speed sets.

the music isn't too overbearing for the workout...and blends into the background.

There are some difficult moves and balance poses...which take some time to master if you haven't done yoga long...but there are also things that can be done with ease immediately.

There are three different levels for each pose so you can progress as well.

And my favorite part...it wasn't all "new-agey" and "pseudo-spiritual" The word "Chakra" was not said once. That alone is enough to make the video worth a try.

In addition, it's an incredibly good priced video... If you are into yoga and would prefer NOT to hear some flaky 20 year old nymphette talk about chakra's and astral healing...then this is definitely the workout video for you!

Excellent!
I'm a beginner to yoga, but even I found this DVD fun and easy to follow. Instructor Kristin McGee teaches Vinyasa style, which is a flowing, dance-like style rather than slow poses. Some of the poses were difficult, especially the balancing ones, but they can be easily modified with blocks or a yoga strap. I especially liked the constant breath coaching, since like a lot of people I tend to hold my breath while exercising. The music wasn't that great, in fact I found it distracting, so I liked the "instructor-only" audio track. McGee is a wonderfully no-nonsense coach and doesn't waste time with "feel the energy from the earth/you are one with the universe" statements. This is a great DVD if you are doing yoga for exercise rather than as a spiritual practice. I was sore the next day, but I'm looking forward to doing this one again.

Great yoga workout.
I love love love this DVD! For a while, I had been wanting to try yoga, but wasn't really sure where to start. I saw this, and decided to buy it just because I wouldn't really lose anything. Definitely not a disappointing buy. This gives a pleasant yoga workout using mostly basic moves, and a few more advanced ones. It has nice music going throughout it, which is good considering it's made by MTV, but it also has the feature on the DVD to turn the music off, which is nice. The instructor, Kristin Mcgee, is very personable and she makes sure to explain all the moves well, and also reminds the viewer to keep breathing throughout. This can be used by inexperienced people as well as those who are more advanced. They show how to do the move the regular way, then they have a way to do it for beginners, and then for more advanced. This is a very good idea. I've seen good results from doing this workout regularly, but a nice thing about it is you don't think you're really working out, however, the next day you're sore. If you're interested in trying yoga, and want great music to go along with it, I definitely recommend this.

excellent
highly recommened, i did it for the first time yesterday, and i am way sore today!

Great Workout!
I first got this DVD MONTHS ago and did it once. It was hard, so I didn't pick it up for a long time. I just recently started taking a pilates class and decided to try this DVD again. I have done it the past three days in a row and I LOVE it. It is difficult at first if you've never done yoga before, but if you keep trying to do it it gets easier. I am POSITIVE I will see results from this if I keep it up. Not only does it give muscles you never knew you had a workout, but it's relaxing also. I also like that it has different levels you can move to as you progress on the same DVD. ... Read more

Product Description

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

Reviews (1)

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

Amazon.com

MTV and yoga? The two concepts don’t go together as naturally as, say, Siegfried and Roy. Still, this 40-minute program (plus a brief Pilates-based routine for the abs) has more to offer than the chance to gaze at buff young bodies in leotards. Instructor Kristin McGee (who also appears on MTV Yoga, the channel's 2002 yoga program) continually emphasizes the crucial element of the breath, and the routine includes sun salutations, backbends, balances, twists, and other aspects of a well-rounded practice. But not enough time is allotted for warm-up, and the pace is very brisk; any practice that uses the downward dog pose primarily for resting is not for the faint of heart. That’s fine for the short-attention-span generation spawned by MTV, but not great when it comes to a discipline that cultivates endurance, will, patience, and introspection by way of the depth and deliberateness of the movements. It’s yoga all right, but this is definitely not recommended for the inexperienced. --Sam Graham ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Good workout, but it does have flaws
I agree with a previous viewer in the fact that the warmup is hurried, and the positions aren't held very long, and the corpse pose is not held very long either. However, I would not go so far as to say that this isn't yoga. If you are the type of person who is very much into the spirtual side of yoga, and a slower pace with your yoga, don't bother. Besides did you REALLY expect spirtuality from a MTV ;-)? I have been practising yoga a few years now, and I found the video challenging and fun. There are some ashtanga-like aspects to the flow (kinda like an ashtanga-lite, for those who are not quite ready for the entire Primary Series :-)). Once you get past the hurried sun-salutations, the workout gets better. I particularly liked the balance and seated poses. I especially liked the variation with beginner, intermediate and advanced versions of poses. It gave me either modifications, or a way to deepen the pose. Some of the poses Kristin does can be found in the Primary Series of Ashtanga yoga (i.e. triangle, reverse-triangle, most of the seated stretching series, jumping in and out of poses, etc.). The Pilates at the end of the tape is not bad either, a good way to work on abs after a fairly intense 45 minutes. However, I don't think Windsor and other pilates gurus have much to worry about from Kristin as a pilates instructor. Overall, this a solid yoga tape for a person with experience. The level of the workout does assume you know a certain amount of yoga. I would suggest this tape/dvd to any intermediate/advanced student looking for an Ashtanga-like workout.

Nice Job MTV
definitely one of the better power yoga videos out there. the workout does start out at a quick pace like many reviewers have pointed out, but this owes itself to the common power yoga practise of generating a lot of heat in the body early in the workout to enhance the stretching and strengthening exercises that follow. sticking with tradition the pace slows considerably after the warm-up period ends. the instructor is perfect for the younger audiences MTV can expect in that she has a youthful, upbeat delivery, yet at the same time she's disciplined and adheres to the most important yoga prinicpal, which is focus on the breath. the routine is a nice balance of challenging poses you can do at home alone without needing to have added assistance that you would find in a yoga studio. there's a lot of emphasis on shoulder and hamstring stretching, and upper body and leg strengthening. the trance-like music is awesome too.

my only real beefs with the tape are the lengthy and loud MTV commercials that precede the workout and the too short relaxation period at the end. would have given it 5 stars but for these.

but all-in-all, a very good offering from MTV that will appeal to serious yoga practitioners.

What a workout
As others have said this IS a difficult work out especially if you have never done yoga before. BUT if you have done yoga before and want a good workout, this is a great one to choose. My muscles are sore, but the good kind of sore! I can't wait to see results, and from these sore muscles I am POSITIVE I will see results.

Beginners Beware
This isn't a bad video, but it is much more difficult than "MTV Yoga." If you haven't been practicing yoga for a while, you can easily get left behind. These moves require flexibility and often rapid changes from one pose to another. So, do yourself these favors:

1. Start with a less-advanced video (I prefer "MTV Yoga," Crunch's "Fat-Burning Yoga" and Gaiam's "Yoga for Weight Loss with Suzanne Deason"), and work on it for a few months to build flexibility and, if necessary, reduce the waistline.
2. Watch the video all the way through without participating before you actually try to do the exercises. It's hard enough to keep up when you already know the poses.
3. Try to move away from the concept of yoga as twisting into a pretzel, sitting and meditating for hours on end. It's not all like that.

For the experienced yoga junkie, I'm sure this would make a great video, and an excellent way to push your workouts further.

3.5 Stars actually
I think this is a great workout. Today was my first attempt and I have to say, I sweat more than I have in a long time in Yoga workouts (but I'm not an avid practitioner!) I have been doing the Crunch Fat-Burning Yoga, which I like a lot, but this one made me sweat more... in the first 15 mins. and I like all the standing poses. This DVD is great because: 1- They actually use the real names of the positions. 2- It made me sweat like hell! 3-Its very quick in the beginning but then you can look forward to some slower poses 4- time flies with this one. 5- the instructor does not always prompt the position for very long which is fine b/c the DVD has a section where you can go through the positions BEFORE you start so that you dont have to get too confused about what's going on if y ou dont know the Moon pose for example. 6- there is a quick pilates workout for abs at the end. I have Winsor pilates and its' the same stuff... BUT there are SOME things I'd consider before purchase 1-It moves TOO quickly. Especially for someone who is not a pro. So be careful not to hurt yourself on the cobra pose (thats the one i have trouble with). In all, I like this DVD a lot! Feel energized, etc. The setting is nice, in the Arizona mountains. Enjoy the workout! ... Read more

Description

Imagine your body has the posture, lightness and elegance of a dancer. Enjoy this practical approach to Pilates with 50 minutes of matwork done entirely on the floor. Take a break from traditional weights and develop strong, lean muscle without building bulk. With just the right mix of toning and stretching, flatten & firm your abdominals and strengthen your back with easy-to-follow Pilates moves. With strong and stable torso muscles, daily activities become easier and sports performance improves. Develop power from the inside out, stand taller with a longer, leaner silhouette. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

Get your long-legged Danskins on momma and move it!
This video is a great way to add some flavor to your weekly exercise routine. (Those familiar with Debra Waterhouse's *Outsmarting the Midlife fat cell* will doubly appreciate the novelty and fun of this video.)

The video includes two different dance "routines" and one cool down. Jennifer Kries instructs the first section; she (and her 'class') is accompanied by in-studio drummers. (A bit 'tribal'; fun.) The second segment is led by Lisa Wheeler. The music and movements have a bit of a jazz/Spanish flavor. The cuing in both segments is good (althought the camera work in the second segment could have been clearer-- show me the instructor not the drummer!!). I have a background in dance (from a long long LONG time ago) which also helped me follow some of the movements and references (ballet). Like riding a bicycle; once you learn...

It's a fun tape; great work out. Give it a go.

great dancing to the rhythm of drums!
The execises in this video is made up of two parts led by two instructors who are great, both as dancers and instructors. I have several other fitness videos but I cannot help but reach out for this one whenever I put on my tights to start exercising. It is addictive :-) Seriously, I think that it helps if you have some dancing background but even if you don't, don't worry! The instructors are very good and you will learn the steps and get to enjoy them more with every exercise. One more word though. I used to dance classical and modern ballet as a hobby but had to give it up due to personal reasons. I restarted my fitness program with an easier dance workout video and then moved on to this. It may be a bit hard for a first time exerciser. The only thing that I criticise about this video is that the camera focuses on the drummer a couple of times and this causes problems for the continuity of the dance, especially if you are a beginner. But on the whole, I greatly recommend this video for everyone.

Must be very coordinated!
I was excited to buy this DVD, but when I brought it home, it wasn't quite what I expected. The dance moves are difficult to follow as the instructors go very quickly. It took me many viewings before I had any clue what was going on. You need to have a lot of space in order to do this workout, and must have pretty good coordination. I am 25 and athletic, but still struggled with getting the moves down. Lisa Wheeler's section is definitely better, but still somewhat advanced for me. I was hoping for more of a modern-style, hip-hop type workout, but this workout focused on ballet and jazz moves. I broke a sweat, but overall this DVD is pretty lame.

Not really a beginner video...
The first section in particular is hard to do..some of the movements are a bit chaotic and require a LOT OF SPACE! Jennifer Kries gives it her all, bless her heart but I, an untrained dancer, felt like a spaz trying to follow along. It is too quick, complicated and I find myself wrenching my neck trying to watch the video from various awkward positions. The second section is a bit easier to follow but it also quickly moves into an advanced knowledge of dance terminology. She's calling out steps and performing them as if I should have a full understanding of what the steps are. I think if you have a dance background and want to do this tape just for fun it would be great but if your looking to Dance "TO" Fitness, like myself, you should keep looking for a tape that is more instructional a wee bit slower. In the beginning, Jennifer mentions that there are some beginners participating in the group. I have to laugh at what the tape would look like with real beginners, like myself, spazzing all over the place, knocking over our lamps and pulling muscles! Though I appreciate their tendancy to over estimate my skills and coordination, truth is Jennifer and Lisa, I'm a teensy bit less coordinated than all of you lovely folks and the only dance term I know for sure is plie'...the rest is Greek to me.

Safe well put together video.
I have done this video for years and I think that this is a good video if you want a routine that is not too bone jarring, but still has a bit of challenge to it. The instruction on how to properly do the moves from both Jenifer Kries and Lisa Wheeler is excellent (although Jenifer Kries's portion does take practice)and you will have a good time when you get the hang of it.

It's also great for people who are beginners, but because of the awkward, often wandering camera angles and moves of the video. I would use discretion and watch it through a few times before I did it. I'll admit that this isn't a video that you want to take from the box to the vcr, but it's still great. You work the muscles of your back and legs, and end the workout feeling loose and envigorated. ... Read more

Description

Let Denise Austin, America's #1 fitness expert, lead you through a workout that will shape, stretch and tone you from head to toe.Power Yoga Plus is an innovative blend of Yoga and Pilates moves designed to firm, reshape body lines, improve flexibility, all while toning the abdominal muscles - the body's core of strength and energy! The first workout, Power Yoga, is a series of traditional Yoga poses performed in a flowing style designed to generate power and stamina.20 minutes. The second workout, Power Pilates, is an invigorating series of Pilates moves which challenge the abdominal muscles and tones the buttocks, hips and thighs PLUS combines 3lb. weights to sculpt the arms, chest and shoulders.20 minutes. So, grab a mat, 3-5 pound weights and give Denise 20 minutes a day.Performed individually or together, Denise Austin's Power Yoga Plus will have you feeling and looking stronger, leaner - empowered! ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Great whole body stretch
This DVD is divided into 2 segments. One on yoga (20 minutes) and one on pilates ( 20 minutes). Easy to do every day. Great overall stretching for the whole body. Great for your back! Many times I do this first thing in the morning and Denise Austin is very easy to listen to while you're still sleepy. After the workout - you feel invigorated. I planned on only doing this workout a few times a week but I like the way it stretches me and end up doing it every day. I'm looking for another of her workouts to try. I highly recommend this (no - I have NOT beeen paid to say that)!

Denise Austin:Power Yoga Plus
Excellent workout! I do the 20 minute yoga and 20 minute pilates every morning before I get ready for work. It really invigorates me and I feel good all day long. I have been doing this for about 3 wks and I already notice a big difference in my flexibility, no more sore muscles after a strenuous weight training routine. The method of breathing in and out through the nose is great during the routine and also all day long--I have learned to breathe better and I'm able to keep my mind clearer in stressful situations. Must Have for anyone looking to improve overall and feel good!!

A great workout
I recently received this DVD as a gift and am really enjoying it. The poses are fairly basic, but can be made easier or more difficult by modifying. Denise is chatty, and other reviewers have complained about that, but I find that her constant reminders to stand up straight or hold in your abs makes me more aware of what I'm doing and improves my workout. I have a hip injury I've been working on, and the stretches and hip exercises in both programs have helped a lot. All in all, I'd recommend it to just about anyone.

I wish I were deaf too...
I don't know what possessed me to get this DVD. I wished I'd read some of your reviews. I should've known better since I faintly remember Denise Austin's voice in some TV programs and found it grating at the time. The minute she started speaking in this video, those memories came flooding back :( Her yoga moves are quite basic. Pilates moves are OK, but to echo one reviewer, she doesn't transition very well between the poses. I bought this video 3 months ago and have used it only once. I guess I should use it at least a few more times to get my money's worth - but I wonder if I can keep it on mute and put my Enya CD in or something...

Good workout when you don't have a lot of time
I used this workout when I was pregnant, right up to the end. Of course, I couldn't do all the poses toward the end. But, if you want a quick, thorough, whole-body stretch to keep you feeling limber this is a great video. I never got bored of it, and my cronic back issues pretty much disappeared the whole time I used it. The 20 minute sessions are great when you are tired from a long day at work or have a child competing for your time. ... Read more

Description

Now you can lift and tone every muscle with easy, efficient moves and light weights to get a strong, healthy body. This one DVD has everything you need to:
• Sculpt your legs and tighten your buttocks
• Strengthen your shoulders and arms
• Firm your inner thighs and outer hips
• Shape your front and back of your thighs
• Target your midsection with dynamic abdominal exercises. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not bad for an all-weight video
I just got this video last week and tried it on Saturday. All in all it's not a bad video. The only thing that I did not like about it was this one part where it seemed as though she was going rather fast. I especially liked the leg segment, and I am sure that once I get the ankle weights I will feel it even more the next day, and my butt and legs hurt pretty good without the weights!!The ab segment was great also.I do my abs every day and I had to stop a couple of times during that segment.

While I've heard some complaints about the length of the video, I did not find it to be too long.

If you are looking for a good weights-only video I think this is the one for you.

Tone Fast!
Karen is wonderful. You can do her workout without trying to fiugre out her routines. She is the best aerobics teacher and her routines work. It is never boring.

A real killer....
I do this workout when I want to be sore for a day or two.I'm a Karen Voight convert now (sorry Kathy Smith).The first time I did it with 3lb weights and that was a mistake; be sure to start out easy in the beginning.The floor exercises at the end are excellent....especially the abdominal segment.A great production, definitely a favorite go-to.

A Great Weight Training DVD
This dvd is awesome. I have been exercising on and off for a while. I bought this video so that I canfocus more on building lean muscles. The workouts are great. After doing only a portion (30 min. of leg work)of the video, my muscles were tired and not only that. Those muscles were sore for 2 days after. So as you can tell the workouts are very effective even though the weights you are usingmay range from 1 to 5 pounds(for women).

Girls if you want to get in shape, this would be a great buy.

The entire dvd is approx. 1 hr and 25 min.

Sections:

Warmup -6min.
Standing leg work - 6min.
Upper Body -25 min.
Lower Body -30 min.
Abs - 15 min. ... Read more

Reviews (43)

Its harder and more effective then it looks!
(If your looking to buy a dvd where you can learn bellydance chorography, do not buy this.)

I bellydance and this dvd is a great dvd! It tones and strenthens the muscles I use while bellydancing, such as my thighs and hips. I love this DVD. I especially love the special features. In the commentary, Veena and Neena reveals more information on the specific moves done in the dvd and some background/history of some moves etc...Also In the special features are EXTRA DANCE FOOTAGE. It is my favorite part in the special features section. Five seperate dances are shown, and I must say, VERY beautifully done. Each dance shows different forms of Egyptian bellydance (dancing to a drum solo, with a veil, cymbals, a sword, and a cane.)

Basic Moves is a slow, non-impact workout that is so much fun!!! It was hard for me to believe, just by watching the dvd, that the workout could have any effect on me. But it did. This workout doesnt build bulk, instead it tones the muscles and trims the fat on your body.

Fat burning is very hard for me. Its hard to keep up really. But its IS a good workout. There is lots of jumping/bouncing in this part of the DVD, so there is lots of emphasis on the calves.

Basic Moves For Novices-FatBurning For In shape ppl!
I absolutely fell in love with Belly Dancing thanks to this DVD. It has helped me lose 2 pant sizes in a month (From 24 to a 22)and has upped my confidence, energy and has helped me develop a new love- Belly dancing!
My personal opinion: Basic Moves is best if you are a total novice to belly dancing, and if you are pretty out of shape. I would highly reccomend Basic Moves if you are looking for a work out that will teach you some moves, is fun, challenging yet dosen't leave you feeling like your gonna die any moment.

My only gripe is I don't understand why they included one of their HARDEST work outs on the same DVD as their easiest. I have weak ankles, so the fat burning portion of the DVD which deals mostly with Egyptian Folk dancing is pretty much a no go for me. It seems you would need to be in really good shape to do the fat burning portion.

If you are out of shape, I would save the money and just buy the VHS of Basic moves.

Great workout for the out of shape and rushed!
I love the beginning workout on this CD. It reminds me a lot of Tai Chi--but with music and some prettier moves. I bought this DVD to have a short and easy workout to alternate with an easy Tai Chi workout. I can almost do this workout and will be able to do it soon. It covers all sections of my body, but is not so strenuous that I will damage myself. Veena and Neena are experienced instructors and they make the workout fun, relaxing and thorough. I have not done the fat burning portion yet--I will save it for when I can do the basic moves easily and want to step up the action. It looks like there is a more advanced set of DVDs that is available if I ever get really smooth and want to move it up more.
This is a very professionally done DVD with attention to scene and background selection, good sound, selection of music and costuming as well as sound method.
Many films of this nature often leave a lot to be desired--but this one is professionally laid out and I will enjoy it for years.
I will probably buy the more advanced three set if I put in enough time to get smooth on this beginning tape.:)
I am too old to want to bellydance in a public class, but this is really fun and inspiring to try this in my own home. :)
Mary Z. Cox
www.nettally.com/infocon

half good half bad
The twins are very good instructors, the first section Basic Moves is intersting and fun, fine for beginners and for the people who wants to do some workout,but the second section Fat Burning is very very very bored,tedius and you can hurt your knees because always is jump and jump. If you want to learn bellydance you can have The Sensual Art of Bellydance series, they are very nice,sensual, fun and they teach you very good.

GREAT WORKOUT
Veena and Neena's Bellydance for beginners is the greatest bellydance workout there is. It is really easy to follow along with and they teach you real bellydancing moves. It is really fun to do and the music they play in the background is great too. The only thing is I wish they would last longer than they do! This is the funnest way to exercise. You'll really enjoy it. But beware! After the first time you do it (both basic moves and fat burning) your WHOLE body may get really sore (especially your hips but that means the exercises really work and that your doing all the moves correctly!) You might need to take 1 or 2 days off before you do it again. Overall I can't wait to buy the rest of the DVDs from their collection!! ... Read more

Description

"As someone who's spent her life promoting the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, I assumed I already knew a lot of the answers to the questions surrounding menopause. But, in many respects, this time of life is a new ball game. And so, my personal exploration began, and grew into this video." - Kathy Smith. This program combines expert information with real lifestyle changes that can help every woman to get through menopause. This program includes: A 20-minute low-impact cardio routine; A 20-minute stress-reducing yoga routine; A 20-minute strength training workout; Nutritional strategies for symptom management and long term health; Q&A segment with doctors specializing in women's health issues. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Wow what a workout!
Wow, what a workout! I've recently re-started my workout program and wanted something up-to-date and this DVD really delivers. I'm in my forties, a bit overweight and don't like to do alot of jumping so this program is just right. It has different intensity levels so you can work at your level of fitness, has a cardio, weight training and yoga section plus offers some helpful hints for getting through menopause. The routine is interesting but not complicated and works both upper and lower body. The chapter list allows you to choose where to start; each section is only 20 minutes so you can divide the routine if you're crunched for time or do the whole thing when you're not. I also like the real women Kathy has working out along side her, no fitness babes here!!! The equipment is minimal; just some weights, a towel, and a mat or towel for the floor work. I'm left sweaty, and worked out from head to toe but feeling energized and like I just did something great for my body, my health, and myself!!

You don't have to be menopausal to do this workout!
I purchased this DVD b/c it is a DVD. I don't know why workouts keep coming out on VHS and rarely on DVD. So, that said, I received this dvd today and did the 3 part workout: cardio, strength training & yoga. Each section has an overview before you begin, Kathy lets the viewer know why it's important for the body while going through menopause. She gives the cues before the moves, the moves weren't very difficult, thus, finally a workout I could do! The cardio workout was medium-level, I was breathing intensely but certainly not huffing & puffing. I thought the cardio was perfect. It's only 20 minutes, so it would be great on a quick-workout day. If you want a longer one, I suppose you could do the workout twice. During the workout, Kathy voices over every now & then with little bits of info on menopause, such as "did you take your vitamin E today" and explains why vitamin E is good during menopause & other such tidbits. The strength training workout lasted 20 minutes, you need weights & a chair and wasn't too difficult. One nice thing is that a picture of a person's backside was shown to let you get an even greater knowledge of doing the exercise correctly. The yoga workout was my least favorite. I've not done yoga before but it just seemed like stretching to me. There is a question & answer section for a doctor on menopause, and a group discussion. Both informative. I'm not going through menopause, I'm too young! I just wanted to be able to buy a moderate-level cardio workout on dvd that I could do, that wasn't so choreographed & jumpy that I couldn't keep up. This is it. Although I'd rather see Kathy's "Step Workout" (the best workout!) on dvd, this one is a decent substitute until something better comes out. So bottom line, a nice overall workout on DVD and it gives lots of nutritional advice & menopause information. Just don't be put off by "menopause" if you're too young and not even thinking about it. It's still a good, decent workout.

Great Workout, Excellent Information, Feel Good Again!
I was very impressed by this tape; both the exercise routines & the informational sections. If one's in a rush & wants to do the routines, obviously, skip the talk, but one should take the time at some point to listen to the informational sections...they're informative, important, & may provide many answers to those experiencing, or those who will experience menopause. The aerobic, weight, & yoga routines are again, great for beginner to advanced. Beginners or "time savers" can split the apprx. 20 min. each routines. If you have the time & are in shape, go for the gold! K.S.'s routines can be tailored from beginner to advanced. The informative tidbidts regarding health tips, etc. interspliced between & within the routines are inspiring, rather than annoying, & make sense. One feels great about working out, & if you are experiencing "peri" or full menopause, this is an excellent tape that will make you feel better about yourself both physically & mentally. I would certainly recommend this particular workout to either one's K.S. workout library, or one's exercise workout library in general.

This tape really works for me.
I'm really out of shape, though was very athletic in my youth (I'm now 57 years old). As a recent birthday gift to myself, I bought 6 fitness videotapes from Amazon, and this was the second I put on. And now that I met it, I'm not even going to bother to try the others until I'm really tired of this one. Kathy Smith is wonderful -- intelligent but not schoolmarmy (as the first tape was)and challenging but not out of reach. Kathy runs you through the beginner level and then proceeds to advanced level, but encourages the beginners to carry on at their level until they're (we're) ready to move on. I don't like getting interrupted every 20 minutes for a health lecture, but I just fast forward to the next segment. I like doing two 20-minute workouts (cardio and weights+bones), which just fits my schedule. I'm writing this to encourage myself to stick with it, but if anyone can keep me conscientious, it's this excellent tape. I strongly recommend it.

great workout for the very fit
I enjoyed hearing (and seeing) Kathy Smith talk about women's health issues, but unless you are very fit, this would be a hard workout to keep up with (in my opinion). It does pose a challenge and is far from boring, however. I rated it a 5 star for those that are at the level needed to perform her workouts. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Reviewer from Michigan
I excercise five times a week with one of Leslie's videos plus once a week weight training class. I'm in my late forties and have dropped cholesterol and blood pressure with this program. This workout is quite easy if you can do Leslie's other tapes. I like the fact that she is alone and doesn't talk to people excercising with her. She demonstrates the moves well. The Challenge with the stretchie band is also easy to follow and does not prove difficult. I'm not sore the day or two after either. One segment explains the moves. The two excercise segments takes about 20 min. each. Frankly, I'd like to see more Walk Away the Pounds with more weights and stretchie-band routines and let others lead the Pilates. Leslie has found her niche with the walking videos and should stay with that. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Yoga Journal's Yoga for Beginners DVD ~ Patricia Walden
This DVD is just what I needed. As a beginner, I wanted something to help me learn how to do Yoga correctly, so that I could get the most out of it.Patricia Walden does a very good job of explaining the proper way of doing several standing poses as well as a few mat poses.The included workout does a good job of putting the poses together. I believe that was the intent of this DVD.

Thorough Introduction to Yoga at a Reasonable Price
This DVD contains two yoga programs that have been reviewed in VHS format:
*Yoga Journal's Yoga for Beginners
*Yoga Journal's Yoga for Flexibility.

The Yoga for Beginners DVD is loaded with over 3 hours of content. The DVD format provides flexibility in using the programs for practice - fixing one of the complaints reviewers had with the VHS format of the program. For example, the programs have sub-menus that allow you to skip the prologues (i.e. Patricia Walden practicing backbends in Death Valley) and there's a section of the DVD main menu that allows you to choose poses to practice without watching the entire program. Yoga for Flexibility and a nice interview with Patricia Walden are located in the "Bonus" menu of the DVD. There's also a booklet that describes each pose demonstrated in Yoga for beginners.

All in all this is an excellent introduction to Yoga practice and a lot of programming at an extraordinarily reasonable price.

My favorite yoga DVD
Let me begin by saying that I have not watched the main Yoga for Beginners sequence, I am not a beginner and already know how to do the poses. However, the bonus workouts are awesome. The first is "Putting it all together", which is a short routine running a little under 20 minutes. I do this routine almost every morning and it really warms up my muscles. Then there is the Yoga for Flexibility workout which will always remain a staple in my flexibility training. The first section is backbends. No, it's not all backbend poses but it's still very good for back flexibility. The second section is forward bends. I cannot rave enough about it. It has many poses that really stretch my legs, I have seen tremendous improvements. Doing this routine has gotten me down into side splits painlessly. I am naturally very flexible and it's hard for me to find videos that really challenge me. With this section, you can make most of the poses as easy or hard as you wish by going deeper into the stretch or easing up on it. The backbends and forward bends sections together runs about 85 minutes, excellent for anyone who wants an intense flexibility workout. I think the bonus routines are worth the price of the DVD alone. FYI- The Yoga for Flexibility routine is available alone on VHS.

If you want to really learn yoga Patricia Walden is best.
This dvd, Yoga for beginners, with the complimentary Yoga for Flexibility program is fantastic. The beginner tape is slow which if you are learning is a total asset. Patricia Walden really teaches you and I have done many tapes but I can honestly say that this program and Patricia Walden is how I have really learned Yoga. Now, when I desire, I can practice yoga without any tape or dvd. I often practice outdoors, on a mountain top or beach. After you learn the poses with this program you can go on to the flexibility program and you will amaze yourself at how much more flexible you will become. The flexibility program is also an all time favorite of mine and produces amazing results. Watching Patricia Walden lengthen her spine is inspiring. This DVD is desert island material and in fact I purchased the dvd already owning both programs on VCR because I value them so much. And lastly, thank-you Patricia Walden for the life long gift you have given me. I mean this with upmost sincerity. Namaste, Yvette

a little repetative - a little repetative -
this dvd was ok, seems there's only about 4 moves on teh whole thing, but it is 1.5 hours because each move she describes and then does over adn over again. it didnt' keep my attention, i wanted more moves. I think the biggest joke was how many times she makes you do "mountain pose" - uh, otherwise known as "standing up" yah, you just stand there. She's telling you to stretch your toes adn all that. I wanted a dvd that was more moving.

p.s. you don't ever get anywhere near the pose on the cover of this dvd.
abbie ... Read more

Amazon.com

Intermediate and advanced exercisers looking for a challenge will enjoy this blend of Pilates, yoga, ballet, and fitness training all atop a ball. Beginners, however, may feel this workout should be called "Instability Ball."(And they would do better starting with Quick Fix Stability Ball Workout, a shorter, easier program from the same production team.) Instructor Katalin Rodriguez Zamiar and her two able assistants helpfully demonstrate most of the moves once before beginning, making the DVD longer but less frustrating than usual. The 50-minute workout begins with a warm-up that includes pelvic rocks while leaning back on the ball and side lunges with one arm slung across it. Then it's on to a 12-minute segment on legs: extensions and lunges with torso rotations. The arms get just five minutes and then it's 11 minutes on the abs with sit-ups, scissors, the Pilates 100, triceps presses, single-leg pikes, crunches, and back bends. An 8-minute session for the gluts wraps things up with the phenomenally complicated frog move. At that point everyone should welcome the cool down! --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great results
I really enjoy this workout. The instructor is pleasant, not at all fussy and pretty good with her instruction. I agree that the 'frog' is tricky to master, however, I have found if I position myself higher on the ball it is easier to do.

The instructor also takes time for a few cat stretches and down dogs which are great, I have never had back pain after doing this routine.

I have to say, the results from this workout have been good, with all over toning achieved.

try another one
The workout was boring on this video. True beginners would be the only ones who would get a workout from this video.

Not a good one, try another
This is not a good routine. Boring and doesn't really flow. You would definetly do better with with Quick Fix Stability Ball Workout or Karen Voights Ball workout.

Check my other review on Amazon for the best choices in exercise and yoga DVDs. Thanks!

poor instruction, other ab tapes are better
the instructor in this video did not seem real confident in the moves, and was not very assertive. This ab routine is lacking inmany ways, and the ball routine was very plain. I'd recomment ON THE BALL ABS with LEISA HART, it is much better and more informative.

Good workout for the ball.
When I first started using this video, I could really feel it working. Now that I've used it a few times, it doesn't seem to be targeting the same muscles. So that means that those muscles have been tweeked!

It's a great workout. The instructions are good (given right before actually doing it.) If you are new to the ball, you might want to watch it a few times. Or get some practice balancing on the ball before you begin this video.

I would've given it 5 stars, but for some reason the dvd doesn't always like to start up right away in my dvd player. I have to stop it and then press play again to get it going. ... Read more

Description

Circuit training is the best way to slim down and build muscles at thesame time. By kicking up your heart rate and having more muscle on your body, you canenjoy what you eat and still control your weight Here are a variety of circuit trainingprograms designed to get every part of your body in terrific shape:Cardio Circuits: are fun and motivating ways to boost your energy and burn up fat. Strength Training Circuits: Firm and build more muscle so your body eats up caloriesaround the clock.You’ll train your upper body with weights and sculpt your lower bodywithout weights for a lean, well-defined look. With all these different circuits to choose from, you’ll zero in on what your body needshave workouts that fit your schedule and never get bored. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Great workout!
Karen Voight's new DVD is very good. I am not sure what the other reviewer said about it not being new because the DVD is completely new material. Anyway, the video does a good job of balancing cardiovascular training with moderate weight training. One of the noteable aspects is the fact that the workout contains a couple of good upper body circuits. Many videos (especially The Firm) tend to overemphasize lower body toning.

All in all, Karen's Burn and Firm will help you stay in shape, with easy to follow instructions, interesting moves, and good music.

Not her best workout
I dislike having to give Karen Voight a negative review, but ... the music was really, really bad; actually, the music is pretty much always bad (except in Cardio Circuit Training), but she's such a super instructor, and the workouts are so well thought out, that I don't notice. That's not the case with the music behind Burn & Firm. To be completely fair, this workout is perfectly well-rounded for 30 minutes, with intense bursts of high rep weights and interval cardio segments (only four, though). I just didn't have fun doing it! Her other tapes are wonderful, i.e. Energy Sprint, Cardio Ciruit Training (fun step routines), and Personal Best. All in all, Karen Voight rocks!

One of the only videos you will need!
The trouble with most videos these days (yoga, pilates, etc) is that there isn't enough cardio, so all that beautiful muscle could stay hidden a layer of fat! And many of the videos that claim to be "cardio" are only about 25 minutes long.
My first Karen Voight video was 'Your Personal Best' (w/ Elle McPherson) and I really liked the circuit training approach. She carries that through into this video. Circuit training is great because just when you're about to collapse, it's time to stop and do weights. This is an excellent intermediate workout!

Great DVD workout
I am a first time mom trying to get my body back in shape. The nice thing about the DVD is that I can piece workouts together. The cardio section is 24 minutes long, which I was able to do during her nap. My daughter woke up while I was doing the lower body work out and she was very amused by mommy's flailing arms and legs.

Gets a Sweat going
Pretty good cardio routine..once you get the steps down, its no problem. Excellent for all levels. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Leslie does it again!
I was looking for ab work to do after my walk and this set is perfect! I can do the ball workout or the Pilates and then use the yoga for a great stretch. You can tell Leslie is a real woman with a real life, her products help you fit fitness into your life.

Easy, fun and non-intimidating
This series is the easiest method of learning yoga, pilates and ab work with the balance ball. I have thus far only done the Yoga and Pilates, but both are incredibly simple and surprisingly effective. A good way to add variety to your workouts, esp. if you're already doing alot of Leslie's other workout programs. I recommend this series and commend Leslie for doing a service to the fans who love her workouts-a little change here and there challenges the body and keeps the mind motivated and fresh.

Easy to do!
I was looking for a yoga and pilates dvd that was short and simple. Leslie does a great job showing how easy yoga can be. ... Read more

Description

Losing weight and getting into shape takes both NUTRITION & EXERCISE! Tamilee Webb has designed a 30-minute workout using hand weights and a step to strengthen all major muscle groups, elevate your heart rate to burn calories and work on core muscles for balance and control. This full body workout program is both fun and easy and will make you feel great. There is no better Asset than your health & body. Tighter Assets includes a 30 day nutrition planner to help you achieve your fitness and weight loss goals faster. The plan is easy to follow with healthy food choices and tips to get you to the weight you desire. Give Tamilee 30-minutes and 30 days and you’ll have the tightest assets ever!

With a master’s degree in exercise science, more than 20 chart-topping fitness videos including "Buns of Steel" and "I Want That Body", and three best-selling books, Tamilee is an undisputed fitness workout expert. She knows how to get you motivated and designs her workouts to achieve maximum results with minimum stress. Her no-hype, down-to-earth attitude and step-by-step instructions make getting fit fun and easy to fit in your lifestyle. No matter your fitness level or schedule, Tamilee’s Tighter Assets is a workout program you will want to do over and over again!

Special Features:
Weight Loss

- Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
- Interactive Full Moon Menus
- Chapter Selections
- Complete Nutritional Guide, Menus, and Recipes
- Music Only Workout
- 10 Minute Abs
- Tamilee Trailers
- Photo Gallery

Cardio Blast

- Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
- Interactive Full Moon Menus
- Chapter Selections
- Complete Nutritional Guide, Menus, and Recipes
- Music Only Workout
- 10 Minute Buns
- Tamilee Trailers
- Photo Gallery
- Testimonials with Before/After Pictures ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun Workout!
The 2 Tighter Assets workout are innovative and fun. The Cardio Blast workout incorporates aerobic moves that are not hard to follow. It contains several sections and the moves are not repetitive. It is over before you know it. I prefer the Weight Loss workout which includes more stregth training.
There is one negative about these DVDs -- it takes about 1-2 min to go over the introduction. I was not able to fast forward to start the workout right away. For people who want to do both workouts at the same setting, you will need to wait for the introduction section on your second workout.

Works your Core
This 2 volume set is great for those who really want to focus on your core and strengthening your lower back by using your core. I have been a Tamilee fan for 12 years, and as in the past, has challenged me again.

The first DVD, Cardio Blast (30 minutes) requires alot of core movements and balance. You will also need a lot of room so that you can "Cardio Blast" some of the moves. It definetly takes several attempts to get some of the moves down, however it does get your heart pumping and you are sweating by the end. A bonus feature on this DVD is a 10 minute bun workout that incorporates lunges and squats while utilizing your core. Very good for those who don't have time for the 30 minute cardio or her 40 minute buns of steel tapes.

The Second DVD, the weight loss (30 Minutes) is a killer. I viewed the dvd first before doing the exercises and thought it was going to be easy. HA! This again incorporates a lot of core, balancing and also weights. I have a step and follow her but you can do the exercises on the floor. She starts on one leg focusing on that leg for about 12 someodd minutes before you go into 2 sets of free weights. Then you switch and do the other leg, followed by 2 more sets, then finish with some very effective abs. Let me tell you by the time you are done with the leg portion, your leg is quivering from the slow tap up, tap downs and flying leg holds (don't do this then try to do lower body yoga moves, it kills your thighs). This DVD has a 10 minute ab section that is great. You use a ton of obliques and it varies from you standard crunch.

Both DVDs have the nutrition plan and give good advice. Tamilee is informative without being annoying. The only downside is that it might be a little frustrating for those lacking balance. But after serveral tries it does get better. ... Read more

Reviews (78)

Variety and Increasing Intensity
Donna Richardson's 3-Day Rotation workout features cardio dancing, strength training, and kickboxing segments. Each segment is also available in an advanced version, so you can keep using it over time.

For the strength training segment, you will need hand weights and an exercise mat. This segment features a lot of lunges and squatting, so if you have knee problems, this may not be a good segment for you.

The cardio dance segment features a lot of unique dance moves. The music is motivating and fun. Even if you are experienced with Donna's other workouts, such as her Donnamite workout, you will need a few run-throughs before you catch the hang of these dance moves.

The kickboxing workout is a great cardio workout. Donna teaches the fundamentals of punching: jab, upper cut, and what she calls "stirring a big pot of soup." The kicking section features side kicks as well as front kicks. Combined, this is an intense segment.

This is a great DVD for people who get bored doing the same workouts all the time. If you need something new and fresh to keep you going, this is the workout for you. Be aware, though, that you'll want to include some stretching in addition to this DVD to have a well-rounded fitness program.

A good diverse workout
This video has something for everyone! I like Donna Richardson as an instructor. She's not overly peppy, but is able to keep you moving. I had previously used her four-day rotation workout, but this one is much better. I've been using it regularly (5 days a week) for about two months and haven't gotten bored with it yet.

I love the kick and jab segment! It really makes you feel strong and focused. At first you can feel somewhat stupid trying to keep up with the third segment, which is the dance routine, but after a couple of times you catch on and it is a good workout. Use the instructor cam segment to get the moves down.

I started out doing the regular sessions for a week and then switched to the advanced workout. I prefer the advanced for two reasons. First (and obviously), it's a tougher workout, but secondly, she doesn't have anyone exercising around her. If you like a lot of noise from others, then stick to the regular workout. If you are looking for a focused workout, choose the advanced.

Without question you will have very toned arms and thighs/rear-end after sticking with this routine.

Fun and Funky Workout
This three day rotation workout is great! You burn calories and have fun. It is a party that ends too soon. I love Donna's attitude. She is a motivator. I would use perky but she's laid back. The kickboxing routine has one girl that tends to interject a lot. That is a little distracting to meb but the workout is still very good. If you need a quixk workout that is effect for total body shaping, this is the way to go!

Excellent Exercise Routine DVD with Great Variety
I really enjoyed the variety and the music. This is a perfect exercise DVD for women of color who want to add some variety and see someone who resembles them when working out. Need to add more of her DVD's to your selection and more women of color would order from you.

Worth the money!
I have about 30 exercise videos and I could replace half of them with just this one DVD! Congratulations to Donna Richardson and her production company for putting some thought into a DVD and giving it to us at a bargain price.

Essentially what you get on her DVD are 3 separate workouts that are each about 20 minutes in length and I would rate the exercises as beginning to intermediate. They are a little too fast for those with limited mobility however.

You have: 1. Circuit toning (3 - 10 pound weights required) 2. Kickboxing and 3. Aerobic Dancing. I love the pace, the choice of exercise, and the instruction on this DVD.

As a DVD bonus, she has added 3 additional advanced routines! Now I hate exercise with a passion but I don't mind 20 minutes of suffering and on a good day, I might do 2 different workouts for a total of 40 minutes. However, you actually have over 2 hours of exercise on this one video!

Finally, you actually get to choose to view samples of her other videos or not. Most of them just slap you in the face with their obligatory ads for the first 5 minutes. Nice touch!

Again, I have them all but this is one of my personal favorites! ... Read more

Product Description

The Method, All-In-One Workout integrates all of the elements recommended for a complete workout and includes innovative precision and toning techniques. These physical makeover techniques are regularly practiced by performing artists, and are favored by dance teachers, fitness trainers and disciples of the techniques of Pilates. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Enjoyable Excercise, wonderful for strengthening weak backs
As a newcomer to Pilates, I found this DVD to be entertaining as well as a good workout. I also found that Pilates is helping strengthen my easily-injured back. On this DVD (my first and only Pilates DVD), the instructions, when combined with the video, are usually quite good, though some better verbal descriptions of some of the movements would have been helpful. There are times when the instructor tells you to make sure to look straight ahead for a movement, or at your belly button, but doesn't provide enough verbal cuing for you to continue the excercise as she does. There are also several segments where the demonstrators are confused about how to do a movement, and until the camera shifts back to the instructor, it's unclear how to do that movement. Once you've been through the dvd a few times you figure it out, but one would wish for more careful editing and more practice from the producers before they release the dvd.

The dance segments are fun and the weights introduced in the cross-training segment a nice change (and a good introduction to using light weights). I've found that doing the warmup + cross-training one day and warmup + centering the alternating day makes it very easy to fit excercise into my busy schedule, and the variety is welcome too.

Good workout, but not for beginners
AFter I gave birth to my daughter I had some extra weight to lose. I have been going to yoga classes on and off for two years but I had never tried pilates before, so I got this workout dvd and decided to give it a try.

Starts off with 15 minutes of warm-up conditioning (basic stretch movements).
Next is 30 minutes of aerobic cross training to burn fat and firm major muscle groups.
Centering Makeover - 35 minutes of abdominal and back exercises that I think really do work.
Lengthening - a 10 minute cool down to stretch all the muscles out again to keep you from cramping and from bulking up.

I thought the warm-up was very basic and as extensive as it should have been for the exercises that follow.
I hate aerobic exercise, but realize that it's part of losing weight... the 30 minutes of dancing around isn't exactly my favorite, but it's not bad. Every once in a while I have to walk in place to take a breather.
The Centering work out is difficult. Luckily I've had the yoga training, but even I wasn't able to do everything so I don't know how someone with no dance/pilates/yoga experience would be able to pull this off. NOT for beginners! You will be discouraged and annoyed -or even hurt yourself!- with this and never use it again if you are not in good shape.

I kept up with it, though, and gradually got better. I lost 13 pounds and three and a half inches by doing pilates and barely cutting down my calorie intake in about three months time (I did the pilates work out 4-5 times a week). So it definitely does work. It's just extremely difficult. Even after three months of doing it almost daily, I still have trouble with the moves.
The strength training part with 3-5 lb weights is pretty good if you're looking to tone but not bulk up. I don't like looking bulky, I just like not having that extra flap of skin hanging under my arms!! So this workout is pretty good for that.

I'm giving it four stars because it succeeded in helping me lose the weight that I wanted to lose. It's great for your abs and back strengthening. Picking my daughter up all the time really does a job on my back, so these exercises help with it a lot. I didn't give it five stars because of how difficult it is and it can get boring if you're planning on doing this video all the time.

I do not recommend it, especially not for beginners
Since other have adequetly described what the DVD entails I will just share my thoughts. I do not recommend it.

The warm up is OK. It's not great and it's not horrible, but I do think it is too long.

The cardio section is absolutely NUTS! I did not even get past about the first minute of it because she adds way too many dance moves way too fast. I could not even keep up with the second and third dance moves she added. Obviously I am not