Reviews (76)

It's great to walk three miles in your living room!
I have a reasonably large library of exercise videos and must rate this as one of my favorites. The workout is a good one in that I really work up a sweat and can feel the burn, yet it is easy to follow with good cues and steps that aren't too complicated. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I didn't just exercise my legs, but also my arms, waist, and pretty much everywhere else, too. I also like the fact that it is possible to do the exercises with or without weights and can vary the intensity by making bigger or smaller movements. I am an avid walker, but living in New England means that I can't always actually walk outside so being able to get three miles in my living room is a very good thing! The only negative is that Leslie just plain talks too much which I find annoying at times. Fortunately, though, since you don't need every ounce of gray matter to follow the movements, it is easy enough to tune her out on those mornings when I would rather just exercise and not hear Leslie's banter.

I Love These Tapes and got Great Results!!
Okay, everyone, i've been reading all of the reviews and would like to say something first of all: Leslie is not annoying. shes a lovely instructor and a bit dorky but shes her own unique person and is great when it comes to this workout. i just watch what she does and listen to music. if you have a problem with it then do that too. its very simple. so to all of you complainers: get over it. I've been doing these tapes for 3 weeks and within 2 weeks i lost 8 pounds. may i add that a dedicated diet that suits you is also very effective. i am 16 years old...and i've had a medical problem for 2 years and never thought i'd get rid of weight. since i started these tapes i am motivated to loose and cant wait to reach my goal. (i started at 200 and im 5'6 which is not healthy for my age) now im 192 and it keeps going down and down and everyone i know is saying how fit im looking. it makes me feel great. if you have 30 minutes a day then i suggest that this will work great for you. also if you have a medical problem and need to start slow and everything the 1 mile would be perfect for you for a while but i do 2 miles a day and it is working great so make sure you get this tape if you are interested!!!!!!!!~

My Favorite Leslie Sansone Workout
Leslie is the "Queen of In-Home Walking." This is different than walking on a treadmill, but seems equally effective. You can also walk any day of the year, rain or shine, day or night. There are no limits.

Leslie travels all over the world promoting fitness and holds six certificates from the American College of Sports Medicine. She also owns Club Fitness and makes appearances on the QVC Home Shopping Channel.

After trying a few of Leslie Sansone's workouts, this is now my favorite workout.

This Super Fat Burning - 3 Mile workout took me to new places in my fitness level. I really saw some good results in the stomach area. I had to keep looking in the mirror to make sure it was true. This workout firms the upper and lower body, improves coordination and balance and boosts cardio strength. (47 minutes)

Since I'm not the queen of coordination, the Leslie Sansone workouts allow me to exercise without worrying about fancy footwork. If you can stand in one place and move forward, back and put your arms up and down, you can do this! Therefore, this is really for anyone! The use of weights really takes this video to a new level. This workout really does tighten and tone you all over.

I highly recommend this workout or the three workout set with weights. This workout is for anyone starting a new workout program or for anyone who just wants to have a little fun with their workouts. You just become one of the group and Leslie creates a very friendly, accepting environment. I really started to look forward to working out in such a positive environment and enjoy being in the presence of some positive energy, plus it gave me an added boost of "I can do this." The music also just keeps you moving!

If you have a 5' x 7' space anywhere near a TV, these are perfect. You don't need a lot of room like many aerobic videos require.

Leslie's workouts that add a smiley burst of energy to your day. If you are on your couch, you better be looking out for Leslie Sansone cause she is going to "come over and get you" off that couch! At least that is what she says. ;)

I sent my aunt the 1-mile workout and she now says that
she does the workout with my little second cousin who is
now living at her house. So apparently even kids love
Leslie's workouts. ;)

~TheRebeccaReview.com

My favorite of all 4 of Leslie's workouts (so far!)
Last fall, when I first heard about Leslie's workout tapes, I bought the 3-DVD set of the 1-mile, 2-mile and 4-mile DVDs. I was able to move quickly from the 1-mile to the 2-mile, but going from there to the 4-mile proved much more challenging. I thought I'd try a 3-mile as a middle step until I could easily get through the 4-mile and bought this one earlier this year.

I love it! Things I like alot: 1) there are more people participating in the workout than in my other Sansone DVDs; 2) Leslie has MUCH more interaction with the people in the workout than in my other Sansone DVDs; 3) the set/studio where the DVD is filmed is a hundred times better than those in the other Sansone DVDs I have; 4) the transitions in music/pace are a hundred times better than in the other Sansone DVDs I have; 5) the music, while not hugely inspiring, is good; and 6) while it's a shallow and silly thing, this DVD is MUCH more up-to-date than the others and I don't have to look at terribly outdated workout outfits and hairdos anymore. :)

I have no major dislikes. After watching/listening to the DVD repeatedly over a course of months, there are LITTLE things that bug me like the fact that Leslie so often refers to "the girls" and ignores the fact that there is a man participating (Randy). I noticed that Randy was dressed differently than the girls (their outfits are all in a matching color scheme and by the same company), so I wondered if maybe Randy was a "fill-in" for someone who couldn't make it at the last minute and therefore Leslie was used to it being all girls and kept forgetting he was back there (he was in the back row).

All in all, a WONDERFUL exercise tool!

Great for those days...
when you don't want to think about it. I alternate this tape with other workouts (elliptical trainer, walking outdoors, biking) and it's a nice variation. The weights give it just enough "umph" and even when I'm unmotivated, I can usually make myself do this tape. ... Read more

Description

The Interactive Yoga Series revolutionizes the practice of yoga in the home. Unlike other DVD's and videos that have one or two workouts, each of these DVD's contains dozens of carefully designed workouts that are taught by expert instructors. Whether your goals are to relieve stress, increase energy or build strength and flexibility, the Interactive Yoga Series will be an invaluable resource for years to come.

Yoga For Every Body (TM) contains over 45 workouts taught and designed by JJ Gormley for for the beginning, intermediate and advancedyoga practitioners. Choice of workouts include: relaxation, stress relief, energy increase, focus, flexibility, arms, legs, back, shoulders and stomach-strengthening routines and many more. Workouts range from 15 to 75 minutes.

JJ Gormley is a certified yoga instructor and has taught thousands of students throughout the world over the past 25 years. She guides students with a warm, nonjudgmental style that encourages the expansion of physical, mental and emotional limits within the healthy and stimulating context of yoga. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

If you buy one Yoga DVD, this is the one.
This just offers tremendous value for the money, because it has so many workouts, and they are all good, and tailored to fit various needs: sore neck, stress, stiff back, hands and feet, etc. It also has a bunch of different levels. I thought it was much better than most Yoga tapes in terms of addressing the needs of beginners, but I haven't been a beginner in some time, so maybe I'm wrong. That issue aside, this is the best Yoga DVD to own--and beyond the variety it offers, I think JJ Gormley has a wonderful soothing voice, and gives great instruction to follow the movements--I never get confused the way I do with Quick Fix Power Yoga where I have to constantly look at the screen to figure out what they're doing.

A nice dvd to learn and grow with
I am a beginner in the wide world of yoga. I took a class this semester with an instructor who really views yoga as a way of life, and his gentle approach got me hooked. Up until now I've been sticking with supplementing the class with the Living Arts AM & PM yoga set which is fantastic, but when the class started I wanted to get something longer to sort of replace it. I chose this and could not have done better.

The dvd is divided by levels and times, so there is ample oportunity for plenty of variety. I love the instructor encouraging and understanding manner "Go as far as your legs want to go today" etc. They also show modifications with props if you are less flexible.

Understand that the way the variety is created is each pose or series is put on the dvd as a separate chapter and then when you chose a routine you get a preprogramed set of poses&series, so it is not a set of individually created workouts but rather different mixtures from a common bag. However there are enough poses there that it does not feel repetitive.

All in all if you were to purchase one yoga dvd, I would highly recommend this one.

I love this workout!
The fact that you can pick your level and your routine is fantastic - it's so nice to have so many workouts in one DVD. I've done it many times, and haven't gotten bored yet. I highly recommend it, though personally I feel that beginners should take a few classes before starting an at-home practice.

Great Selection of Workouts, Great Value
I have a few Yoga VCR tapes. This is my first DVD. I am pleased that it makes good use of options DVD provides - the ability to provide menus and skip forwards and backward easily.

There are several workouts for beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Within each of these categories, there are further selections for long and short workouts that are either general practices or have specific goals (body areas, aches & pains, etc).

I have not done an advanced workout yet. I was pleased that in an intermediate workout there were 2 poses I have not seen before on a tape or in a class. The poses were clearly explained and it was easy to follow the tape. The instructor, JJ, often shows or tells you about different ways you can modify poses to suit your body's ability (or inability!).

I have a 2 year old. I absolutely love that there are so many workouts to choose from that I can always find one to fit in the free time I have while she naps, or early in the morning, or while she's playing with Dad. No more saying, 'Well, guess I have to do it tomorrow' just becuase I don't have an hour free to complete one of my tapes. Sure, I know, I could just make my own workout up, but it just doesn't happen.

Some reviews complain about the black screen between poses - that it is disruptive and not conducive to flow. I don't have a problem with it. The first time you do a workout you will notice it. The second time through, you begin to see ways to connnect the poses on your own - for example - pose one might end in downward facing dog pose, and pose 2 begins with it - so you just hold it an extra second. In general, holding the end of a pose until the next one begins seems to work OK.

It seems that on the shortest workouts this doesn't always hold true - they don't always flow well. BUT - you have plenty of time to recover and get into position. If flow is what you are after, then you will be disgruntled, but otherwise there isn't a problem.

I suggest watching the brief segment on technique review. She clearly explains the different body parts and alignment cues she mentions. I found it very helpful.

The teacher's style is very relaxed and straightforward. I do not like overly flowery and spiritual delivery - I always feel like that should be up to the student. I found JJ's style to be perfect for me.

In all - this is a great DVD and I recommend it to anyone looking for a good variety of quality workouts. The instruction is clear enough for beginners, the workouts challenging enough for at least intermediate students. I'm not advanced, so I can't speak for them!

Easy to follow
I enjoy the DVD tremendously, it is gentle when I want it to be a more challenging when I need it. I can't believe all the routines they have on a single DVD. Certainly the best-buy I have ever made for a yoga DVD. ... Read more

Description

Follow Tai Chi expert, John Bright-Fey as he leads you through a 40-minute Tai Chi workout designed by a physical therapist, for your safe and steady progress.

This DVD lesson includes warm-up and cool down exercises. Special instructions are provided for those with joint pain, limited mobility, and unsteady balance. This is the perfect Tai Chi workout for beginners. Performing the exercises on this DVD will improve your balance and reduce the likelyhood of falling. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Great Tool for Stress Relief!!
The New Forest Tai Chi for Beginners Video is a great stress relief tool, and who couldn't use that? As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) I see many people who are searching for tools to help them manage the stress in their lives and to help them achieve some sense of internal balance. This video provides excellent training in using movement to achieve those goals. Bright-Fey's approach is easy to learn and easily fits into even the busiest schedule. No prior experience is necessary - this video is appropriate for all ages and all levels of physical ability. I highly recommend it!

New Forest T'ai Chi for Everyone
The New Forest T'ai Chi video for beginners is an excellent way to experience the benefits of a well-designed program of exercise which relieves stress, loosens joints and improves balance.

After taking two (one twelve week and one eight week) sessions with John and Kim Bright-Fey, I realized the video would encourage me to continue an exercise regimen at home. I have been so pleased with the video because it accurately reflects their teachings and techniques and motivates me to do the exercises and routines in between the personal sessions. The routines are easy to learn and fun to do!! By the way, I am a 72-year-old female with a precious husband who has Parkinson's. Talk about stress!!

Finally! A Workout Without Pain and Pretzel Twisting
Like many people, I have tried all kinds of yoga only to discover that pain and soreness outweigh any "relaxing" benefits. Then I discovered New Forest Tai Chi. This video provides what I've been looking for for years--a simple movement routine that relaxes and boosts energy without tying me up in knots. Far from the manic energy I'd feel sometimes from aerobics (ugh) or power yoga, playing New Forest Tai Chi makes me feel truly relaxed and revitalized for the rest of the day. I was surprised at first because the videotape seems so simple. I'm usually wary of anything for beginners, but the introductory level of the video makes it completely accessible and yet I can tell the benefits are quite advanced.

More than meets the eye
Having played a variety of styles of tai chi with a variety of teachers, I have to say that John Bright-Fey's presentation of tai chi makes this powerful art accessible to anyone and everyone. Although the movements are simple, their performance coupled with a playful attitude can produce amazing results. Although it is a beginners tape, "old pros" could benefit from this tape in that it speaks to the essence of this ancient art that is read to be rediscovere.

Tai Chi that spoke to me.
This is a great beginnner video. It was simple, the instructor was personable, I felt like I was in the room with him. I was able to do each step, each movement. By the second use of the video, I started to feel I was really getting the hang of it. I could feel the flow in the movement. If he has another tape, I will order it. ... Read more

Description

Ultimate Body - Beginning Workouts for Weight Loss is a great way to lose weight, build muscle, tone your body and increase stamina. This revolutionary, interactive DVD allows you to take control of your workout like no other video and pick the routine that is right for you. First, choose the type of workout you want, Cardio Boot Camp, Cardio Kick Boxing or Strength workouts, and then decide the workout time. International fitness instructor and Meghan White leads you through a wide range of workouts that are customized for beginners. These workouts are designed to transform how your body looks, feels and performs, and is the perfect complement to any weight-loss or exercise program. With over 12 customized workouts to suit your physical and scheduling needs, there is no better way to exercise in your home. The Interactive Fitness Series revolutionizes working out in your home. Unlike other videos that may contain one or two workouts, this DVD contains over a dozen workouts of varied lengths and purposes. Whether your goals are to lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles or increase your stamina & energy, the Interactive Fitness Series will be an invaluable resource for years to come. Meghan White is a nationally known fitness instructor and has been featured in many of the foremost fitness, exercise and style magazines in America. As a certified Aerobics Instructor and Personal Trainer, Meghan has trained thousands of people, either one-on-one or in her highly acclaimed classes, which are captured for the first time on this DVD. Meghan is especially well known for her energetic style of teaching and fun personality. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Not much content...
There's really not much in this DVD. It consists of two parts, a lesson in the basics of the Alexander Technique and a lesson concentrating on using the Alexander Technique to help with back problems.

There's a lot of talking and not a whole lot of doing on this DVD. Apparently this is part of the "Technique", but I found it boring. There is also a ton of overlap between the two parts...I found it slow even when I watched it in fast forward. I found the part where she corrects some student in his posture when he eats soup highly amusing, though. Who eats soup so often that it causes chronic back pain?

I know there's all this talk about how you can't learn the Alexander Technique by yourself and how you must go pay for expensive lessons. That has always sounded like a scam to me and I was hoping that this DVD would teach me the basics without having to plunk down the bucks for lessons...Perhaps it did, but if this DVD is what the Alexander Technique is all about, then there's not much there. I think I can sum it up in one sentence: "Keep your head balanced above your shoulders at all times."

Fantastic but please go for lessons with a teacher as well.
My library of Alexander related books pretty much includes everything in print including all FM Alexander's original books and I have been a student for a number of years yet this really stands out.

Perhaps its the advantage of the medium (video vs book) or perhaps Jane is just a particularly skilled educator. I think it is perhaps a mixture of the two as I do have other videos which I havent found anywhere near as useful as this.

I think Jane has gone as far as possible to explain the technique without actually being there in the room with you and being your teacher.

Many videos bypass this potentially difficult area and avoid the "how" bit and are really just introductions giving you enough detail to decide whether you want to contact a teacher - this is perfectly understandable given the nature of the subject but Jane has taken a risk here I think she has managed to achieve the very difficult balance between reaching a wide audience and the responsibility of an educator.

I cant recommend this enough.

I would add...

I feel this DVD is absolutely fantastic !!! If I could give 6 stars I would .

I can see why one reviewer said this DVD is worth many books - I am not saying I would give up my entire library of books for this one DVD, but it comes quite close !!

Jane's video is the nearest thing I have seen to something which could either reduce the number of lessons you require or perhaps help someone who has had lessons but has lapsed. Even if your teacher is fantastic I would still say Jane may have something for you here in this video.

I believe a total beginer should still seek 1-1 lessons ( at least 10 and preferably 30 or more ). If you live at the North Pole or something then perhaps you should proceed alone with the help of this DVD (be careful to really listen) but for anyone else I would say that an attempt at "self teach" even with this DVD is an unwise choice unless you really dont have an alternative. It took FM Alexander 9 years to work this all out for himself - a teacher can help you make the journey in weeks.

Simply the best intro to the Alexander Technique!
As an actor and singer, I've had several dozen Alexander Technique lessons over the years, and I learned more from this video than from all the lessons combined! I think a book is the poorest place to start, because you don't get any demonstration the way you do here.

The Alexander Technique is a way of life: to profit from it, you must add awareness of how you use your body to your daily routine. This is what an Alexander teacher will try to teach you in series of lessons. This video, however, makes it EASY to do so because of Jane Kosminsky's incredible explanations and the demonstrations.

As anyone who has had Alexander lessons knows, you may come into a lesson feeling like you were just run over by a truck, and emerge from the lesson feeling weightless, floating instead of walking. A great way to feel, but oh, how elusive!! One difficulty I had as a student was how to get that "just out of an Alexander lesson" feeling without having to go to a lesson. I think this video will help someone accomplish that, particularly with the "self lesson," which no Alexander teacher ever showed me.

I too would love to see a sequel to this video! It deserves way more than the 5 stars I'm giving it!!

Helpful with neck and back pain...
I have suffered with neck and back pain for a few years. Before my injury my posture was outstanding. I developed a slouch after I was injured because I got used to resting the weight of my upper body on my leaning elbows because the pressure of being upright hurt so badly. Now that a few years have passed and my back and neck muscles have become stronger, I have retained the habit of slouching. I decided to see if this would relieve some of the additional pain I felt. The technique is quite easy to master but the difficulty lies in breaking old habits like slouching. It really helped me a lot, especially with the neck pain. I would recommend this for anyone suffering medium to mild back pain. If your pain is so severe you have trouble with everyday tasks or functioning I highly recommend the "The Back Pain Book", get an electric massager with a long enough handle to massage the muscle spasms away and also floating in a swimming pool (get a cheap membership at the YMCA!) will relieve the pressure causing the pain. Other items I found helpful in my recovery are "The Back Pain Book: A Self-Help Guide for Daily Relief of Neck & Back Pain"
by Mike Hage, Robert G. Addison, "AM Yoga" with Rodney Yee and "Stress Relief Yoga" with Suzanne Deason.

Beautiful & Excellent
I am a computer person who is about to get disabled due to overworked muscles and bad postures. I tried accupuncture, medication, massage...etc. whatever I could think of, to ease the pain but nothing delievered satisfactory results. This DVD along with "Chi Self Massage" surpassed the all my expectations. The first time I tried the technique I instantly felt the difference and actually felt so much lighter in my neck area. I understand that this is not a quick fix and the technique should be treated and incorporated into your life more like a habbit. You should PRACTISE the theory and technique all the time. But I can guarantee you that you will love to remember what this DVD is teaching, because you feel great. I see myself walking better, sitting better and feeling better. It makes me feel more elegant and graceful too. Also I found myself thinking more positively when I carry my body in the right way. When I have my own kids, I will teach them this technique from early age, so that they can have better postures as a way of life. Thank you. ... Read more

Description

A holistic solution including poses to ease pain, strengthen the back and torso, and improve flexibility.Includes a medical analysis of Yoga’s effectiveness for back health. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Not as good as the usual Rodney Yee..
I had Rodney's original Back Care video and I bought this DVD to use for business travel so I could play it on my laptop in my hotel. It was WAY too slow moving for me. I plan to return it to Amazon. I was very disappointed.

Good DVD
This DVD has really helped me with my back problems. The excercises shown are gentle and useful. I have chronic back pain, and in order to avoid, and not take pain killers, I do yoga. I have used this DVD, and as soon as I finish one of the three routines, my pain is gone. The only thing that I don't like about Rodney's approach on this DVD is that he shows some very weird excercises, and sometimes you feel like you aren't doing anything. The first routine feels like you didn't do a thing. The second routine is great. The third one has a lot of akward positions, for which you need a chair and a king size pillow. I have never been to a yoga class where you need such items, so I find it weird, and not too effective. However, overall, it is a good DVD (but he has a better DVD, try the Yoga for Athletes, also from Rodney. It is excellent.)

Three workouts focused on maintaining a healthy back
Excellent yoga instructor Rodney Yee offers this 3-part workout focused on strengthening back muscles to maintain a healthy back. He utilizes props (blanket, bolster, chair, brick, strap) to make the poses more gentle and accessible to those at all levels of fitness (although absolute beginners should stick to his previous video, Back Care Yoga for Beginners).

The first 16-minute section concentrates on simple stretches to warm up your back muscles. Poses are done either while lying on the floor or in a seated position, and Rodney uses a blanket to increase range of motion. The second workout is a bit longer (around 18 minutes) and places greater emphasis on strength moves. It begins with simple backbends (eg, cat pose) and moves on to standing poses modified by use of a chair; it ends with a series of lying stretches. In the final workout, Rodney uses a wider variety of props, including TWO chairs and both the blanket AND the bolster. This is a slow-moving, approximately 16-minute practice which focuses on relaxation through practicing a small number of poses for a longer period of time.

At times, Rodney's reliance on props is a bit distracting, particularly while you are trying to relax during the final section. However, he always allows ample time to relocate the props inbetween poses, and his use of the props is definitely beneficial at some points, such as during the second practice. Rodney's manner is extremely calm and relaxing, and his voiceover is always perfectly in sync with his on-screen performance. One minor criticism is that he doesn't offer mirrored instruction, but this is easily ignored given his otherwise excellent cuing. Overall, this is a very good workout by a master yoga instructor.

Not as good as the original
I was disappointed in this DVD. I also own Rodney Yee's first back care workout "Back Care Yoga for Beginners" (1998, VHS), which is much better. "Yoga for Back Care" relies too heavily on props, moves very slowly, and doesn't cover enough poses. If you're looking for a good back care workout, go back to the original tape.

Gentle and Excellent
I checked here for reviews before buying this. There weren't any, so I took a chance. I'm glad I did. And since no one else has posted a review, I finally decided to in case anyone else would like a user's opinion. When I first tried this routine, I didn't think it was going to do much. It is very conservative. But it is also very safe. It avoids some of the front bending and stretching postures that can be dangerous for low back problems. Yoga Journal's routines often go in and out of postures faster than I like, and at first I wasn't sure I liked that aspect of the routine either. Ater doing this routine for about a month, though, I can say that my low back discomfort has eased off greatly. This DVD gets the credit. It is an excellent combination of equalized stretching on both sides of your body, plus relaxation for your upper and low back. The entire workout runs nearly an hour, which I don't always have time for. But it is broken into three segments, so you can do one or two only. Still, make the time for the full routine if you can. It's worth it. You don't need to do it every day. A few times a week has been enough for me to feel the benefit. Finally, the setting is beautiful, the production quality is high, and Rodney Yee is a pleasant presence (important for something you listen to over and over again). I highly recommend the DVD for anyone looking for back-related flexibility, relaxation, and restoration. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This Pilates workout's subtitle, "Pick Your Spot," sums up its flexibility; the three 10-minute segments each tone the abdomen, rear, and thighs using Pilates-based exercises. Crammed into each segment are up to 10 exercises. "Belly" features the 100, criss-cross, twist, and mermaid; "Butt" includes swimming, double leg kicks, and leg circles; and "Thighs" offers the frog, front kicks, and leg lifts. While each segment is too brief to challenge veteran exercisers, viewers are free to hit the pause button and add reps. Plus, a 10-minute bonus total-body Pilates workout proves more demanding than the individual segments. L.A. Crunch instructor Ellen Barrett does an excellent job of initiating newbies to the regulated breathing and core muscle control needed for the exactness of this exercise system. However, visual clarity is somewhat hampered by a crowded set of eight exercisers when Barrett and one other person demonstrating the modifications would have been enough. --Kimberly Heinrichs ... Read more

Reviews (91)

Awesome
This is one of my first videos and I absolutely love it. I use it every single day! I always had slightly heavier lower body. After using this tape for about a month i can really see muscles definition in my thighs, buns and definitely abs. After seeing the results it motivates me to exercise even more.
The timing of the tape is perfect for my busy life - 30 minutes.
I would say this tape is perfect for beginner / intermediate. I have been using this tape for about 2 month and it is getting a little boring and the exercises are not as difficult. To make it harder I am now using the ankle weights - it's like using the whole new tape.
The instructor is very good. She does all the counting and helps you with breathing. There is also a modification for each exercise - if the exercise is too difficult, you can always "follow Betsy" for an easier version.
Plus, the DVD included a bonus 10-minute total body work out.

A GENTLE TONING WORKOUT :-)
I received this video for Christmas last year (2003). It's great! I've never done pilates before, but if you keep trying to do the moves, it will get easier. That is what I like the MOST !! You can see yourself improving, and you will definitely see more definition in your abs, legs, and stomach. (It's really motivating to see when you're 175lbs and 5' 2"). The first part concentrates on your belly, abs, and legs, in 10 minute segments. The second part incorporates all body parts. I usually do the first segment & skip the second one only because I'm lazy. But I HAVE done the second part of the video before, and it's a little intense if you're still not used to moving certain body parts. YOU WILL NOT LOSE WEIGHT BY USING THIS VIDEO ALONE. What it does is tones your muscles. Ya'll should see my legs! I would (and do) use this along with an aerobic form of excercise in your weekly regimen. Well worth the money.

Great workout video!
I've never done Pilates before but have done Yoga, ballet, bellydancing, aerobics, cycling, running...well you get the idea. I like to do different activities so it doesn't get so "routine". I decided to check out Pilates and picked this up because I had a coupon for it. I thoroughly enjoyed this workout. The instructor explained the moves and she was easy to follow. I will definitely be incorporating this DVD along with her other Pilates DVD (Fat Burning Pilates) into my routine.

LOVE this Pilates DVD
I have just recently started Pilates. I read a lot of reviews of MANY Pilates DVDs that are sold at Amazon.com. I bought this one because of the reviews, and I would like to say that the reviews are correct!
As a beginner, I found this very easy to follow along. I did not think that anyone was annoying (ie Denise Austin) or talked too much. After the workout (I did all 3 segments at once), I felt really good.
I am actually lookig forward to doing this DVD again, which is more than I can say about other exercise videos/DVDs I have purchased.
I would recommend this DVD to anyone interested in Pilates.

LOVE IT!
I love this work out ..... I never stuck to a diet or excercise but this i do!! It is 100% worth your money.... You dont have to do the thigh section or butt section or ab section... YOU PICK!!! I do the ab section and i have done it 2 days in a row took a break one day and did it today and already feel the difference. Do not expect a difference if you dont follow the breathing its major...... I am a huge fan of this and am considering buying more of the collection! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Jillina Level 2
I made the mistake of watching Jillina's performance at the end of the DVD first. It's NOT a good indication of what the rest of the DVD is like. Her performance, which was done in a dimly lit barroom environment, made my husband mutter something about exotic dancers and poles. However, the rest of the DVD is extremely well done. Jillina provides correct terminology for the dance steps and choreographs nice combinations. Her focus on technique is very helpful and she is an excellent teacher. Her style will nicely complement what I already know and I found this DVD very enjoyable. ... Read more

Description

Vinyasa Flow takes dynamic yoga to a deeper level by integrating rhythmic breathing with conscious movement. As in all physical yoga, you will increase strength and flexibility - and by uniting body and breath, you'll learn to move from moment to moment with absolute awareness. The practice becomes a meditation in action, and can open you to experience the power of Spirit, the connection between us all.Seane Corn's passionate interpretation of this ancient, flowing style of yoga has made her one of the Nation's most sought-after instructors. In her first-ever session on home DVD, you'll experience a stunningly intimate program that will leave you feeling you've just left a one-on-one yoga lesson - with one of the most compelling and inspiring teachers of our time. For anyone who wants more from yoga than its physical rewards, this is a practice to strengthen the power of your mind and heart as much as your body - yoga to validate and celebrate the human experience and reconnect you to your personal sense of Spirit.This Deluxe DVD Edition includes unprecedented instruction & practice options: Instructional Session: Through informative, unscripted live-audio instruction, Seane guides a complete flow practice - with an emphasis on precise alignment - including modified Sun Salutations, standing poses, backbends, twists, meditation and relaxation as well as instruction in Vinyasa breathing technique. 1 hour 12 minutes.Breath Session: The full practice without verbal instruction, demonstrated at a real-time pace driven by the breath and by the soulful music of Suzanne Sterling. This unique distraction-free template for movement and breath offers the ultimate experience of the powerful, meditative grace of Vinyasa Flow yoga. 1 hour.BONUS Interview: A riveting and candid conversation with Seane, - a glimpse into the personal journey, reflections and beliefs of a woman known for her refreshingly honest take on yoga, spirituality and life. 10 minutes. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Absolutely marvelous
Seane Corn is the kind of yoga teacher you wish for. Her presentation and explanation of each pose is impeccable. I have never seen breath and posture integrated so beautifully. She shows each asana with modifications (sometimes using foam bricks) that makes it easy for anyone to do. The first DVD is Seane teaching and explaining step-by-step a full hour session. The second DVD is the full hour session with no commentary--just the sound of Seane breathing into each pose, and the serene but unobtrusive music of Suzanne Sterling in the background. At the end of the second DVD is a fascinating 10 minute interview with Seane on her background and study of yoga. This is a wonderful, very carefully thought out and presented program on Vinyasa (slow) Flow Yoga. This is session one, so I assume there will be others for those who say this is geared only to beginners. Hey, you have to start somewhere and this is a great, yet challenging beginning. Definitely worth purchasing.

A FIVE STAR DVD............
This two dvd vinyasa flow practice is amazing. Seane's teaching style is top of the line. Dvd number one, is an instructional session where Seane guides you through the practice. In dvd number two, Seane guides you through the practice set to music without verbal instruction. There is also an informative interview with Seane. This dvd hands down is an exceptional buy.

Golden Locked Instructor Unlocks the Body Through Breath
If you are serious about Yoga, a Seane Corn workout will probably find you. They do say that when you are ready to learn, a teacher will appear. Seane Corn takes Yoga to a deeper level as she focuses more deeply on the entire yoga experience. She emphasizes the link between the breath and body. In the past few months, I've been finding that breathing is essential for deeper stretching.

Seane Corn is one of the most sought after yoga instructors. If you are interested in a one-on-one lesson, Vinyasa Flow Yoga is a highly-guided workout with calming music. Seane's instruction style is slightly more intense and much more serious than I am used to, but by the end of the DVD I felt amazingly calm, stronger and at peace.

Seane Corn's seriousness may come from her view that yoga is a divine ritual. You can really create a little heaven on earth through breath and movement. She takes yoga to a deeper level through integrating the breath with movement. The poses
are not complicated and I recognized most of the classic
routines:

Sun Salutations
Standing Poses
Twists
Meditation
Relaxation
Vinyasa Breathing techniques

This Deluxe DVD Edition also has an interview with Seane.

After doing this workout I could not decide if this was for beginners, intermediate or advanced. In fact, it might just be for all three. While beginners are just learning the poses, Seane moves slowly enough to allow for this aspect. Intermediate yogis will enjoy the relaxing pace and detailed instruction. Anyone who is at the advanced level will more than likely enjoy the additional spiritual aspects (brief prayer and affirmations) and length (72 minutes) of the practice. The unscripted format is also quite refreshing. You feel like you are in a yoga class.

If you enjoy an ancient, flowing style of yoga, this might be for you. While this starts off fairly slowly, the continued practice and movements from the floor to standing will give you a spiritually healing experience. You will feel increased blood flow and as you work with your breath, your entire body will thank you for the experience.

I could also see Seane Corn making a breathtakingly beautiful outdoor DVD. I hope she will move into the light (outdoors) because this DVD can at times be a bit shadowy in places. While it gives this DVD a lot of classic style, I am imagining the sun glinting off Seane Corn's hair out in nature. I love outdoor
yoga workouts.

~TheRebeccaReview.com

Finally, somebody gets it right...
Even though Seane is one of these perfect picturesque yogis who grace the cover of yoga media from time to time, she favors breath and proper alignment to pretzel-like asana and unnecessarily extreme poses. Her use of props (though not relevant to every one of my poses) helped breathe new life into the asanas that I have difficulty with. What I really enjoyed about this video is that I learned new things (be it a technique, adjustment, or prop-use) about the most basic asanas in my routine. I don't know if this new structure will help me to eventually touch my head to the ground in prasarita padottanasana, but I certainly feel more connected to the poses than before. And for me, that is what matters.

I found the interviews with Seane very intriguing. She is more than just another pretty yogini, and her opinions on yoga give an intellectual depth to her asana teachings.

I'd recommend this video to anyone starting out with yoga, who wants a proper foundation in which to achieve some of the real benefits of the practice (which putting your leg behind your head is not one of them). I have since bought this DVD for my Mom (who has been practicing yoga via videotape for five years), and she said that Seane's instruction has helped transform her practice into something much more powerful and meaningful than what she was doing before. If you are looking for instruction in yoga and are new to the practice, or feel that your intermediate practice needs refinement, Seane's DVD is the one to get.

Inspiring
As a relative beginner, I found Miss Corn's DVD accessible, and inspiring. I feel like I can use this video now, and grow into it as well, as my practice grows. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Good Workout
Normally, I would give Denise a completely glowing review, but this workout was a bit different. Things I greatly enjoyed were the program: 25 minutes of cardio, followed by 10 minutes segements of arms, legs and abs. Also, the DVD version came equipped with a resistance band, which is necessary to participate in the workout. My criticism is that the whole DVD seems either rushed or was a production after-thought. The music is pretty generic and Denise's spoken introduction is part of the workout, you can skip it manually, but it isn't its own chapter. That's kind of annoying. As for the workout itself, it is very good. During the cardio, you jump around and sweat, all the while using the resistance band for simultaneous toning. The moves are simple, yet effective and the band is a wonderful piece of equipment to weave into your own personal home workout routine, it makes your muscles adjust, as weight routines cause muscle memory over time and your muscles grow accustomed and don't work as hard. Her workout group is made up of people who are thin and fit, but don't look super-ripped or sickly, which is nice and semi-realistic, not intimidating like others can be. She recommends a 6 day schedule, but I think that people who have been working out for a while or have some sort of fitness savvy can decide for themselves, though it is nice to have some guidelines for those just starting out or unsure of how to go about things. She jumps right in, so there is no real explanation section. While the moves are not extremely difficult, there are just barely enough reps to get it right, but that is something that will resolve itself over time. And my last bit of criticism is that Denise seems either tired or a bit disinterested in the workout, she didn't seem as into it as her previous videos. However, she does take the time to really explain the mucles being worked and proper form on her fellow workoutmates. I would like to think of this review as overall a positive one, I just think that if I were to read a review, I would like to know of the negative aspects, to make a well-informed decision.

A Fat-Burning Sensation!
Taking the intensity up a notch was something I really wanted to accomplish after I finished working out to the same workouts that Denise Austin did everyday on Lifetime TV. Her new video, "Power Zone: The Ultimate Metabolism Boosting Workout" has done just that. Using resistance bands during the whole workout, Denise brings the intensity up efficiently and effectively....enough that I was sweating in less than 10 minutes into the workout! During the entire 25 minutes of cardio, you're burning OVER 300 calories! I am serious - with the resistence band, fat gets a powerful punch!
Denise has you do 25 minutes of cardio, then 10 minute segments each for your legs, thighs, buttocks, and abdominals. After working out with Denise for over two years, I have to say that this workout is the best and most effective that I ever used. Although, I do have my disappointments in this one. I noticed that Denise seemed hurried and uninterested in the workout in some points of the video. The moves are quick and fast-paced and if you are doing the workout for the first time, you may feel like you're not able to keep up. Of course, you will get used to the moves in time - after the first workout I got used to it, so it's not something tremendously serious that you need to think over. Denise's workout mates on the video can annoy you enormously if you let them - they seem like they're in a trance during the whole workout and look more like fake supermodels than workout mates (you notice in many exercise videos that workout mates seem more tolerable and real - like mothers who workout or someone from the street who is fit.. but these women on this workout video seem like they have fake personalities).
Other than that, the workout is great - you definitely feel like your muscles were worked hard enough and that you had a real, complete workout.
Recommended fitness levels are at least intermediate. You need to have at least SOME exercise experience - if you are just starting out, I would recommend Denise Austin's Xtralite Exercise videos that are available at Amazon instead.

Fabulous Workout!
The people who gave this DVD negative feedback must not be doing the video correctly! I am a Certified Personal Trainer and would recommend this video to anyone who wants to tone up and lose fat. Within 10 workouts, I could feel and see results and I've been working out for years and years! Denise is tremendously motivating and encouraging. The total video is about 55 minutes long, however the way the segments are set up, you can choose to do each section separately. Remember...give it 100% and you will look and feel better! Buy this DVD...it is so worth the money spent.

The Best Workout DVD
I have been using this DVD for about a week and this is really a good DVD. It is really a good workout for those who hate to go to the gym and it is cheaper.

Not worth the money
I didn't feel that the workout dvd was worth the money I paid for it ... Read more

Description

In addition to stretching, meditation and stress reduction, yoga has many therapeutic benefits including the power to help you naturally lose wieght and keep it off. Led by acclaimed yoga instructor Suzanne Deason, Living Arts' "Yoga Conditioning for Weight Loss" accommodates all levels of fitness and flexibility by offering four levels of modification. With a click of a button, you can access any level workout fully modified, partially modified, slightly modified and full postures and receive more detailed instruction on the most challenging poses. Committing to follow this 45-minute program of safe, natural weight loss methods can help you start looking and feeling great in no time! Four 45-minute workout variations give you room to improve your level of fitness. ... Read more

Reviews (154)

Yoga in Nature
The stunning beauty of the red rocks and panoramas of Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona Arizona makes this video one of the most beautiful yoga workouts to date! The blue mats are just striking against the background and that makes this quite visually pleasing.

If you love exercising in the evening, this workout is perfect to promote a general feeling of well-being and relaxation. Suzanne Deason has created a calming escape you can enjoy for 45 minutes.

While I can't say for sure that you will lose weight while using this particular video, I know you can condition your body with Yoga and Pilates.

I like the combination and have many DVDs and videos. So, I recommend this in addition to all the other workouts you own. Variety seems essential in keeping us all motivated!

The theory behind this workout is that yoga can be used for therapeutic applications. Being overweight has a lot to do with an imbalance in your body's physiology and an internal disconnection between the mind and body.

If you think about when you overeat it might be when you are feeling stressed. It is much easier to keep to your healthy nutrition plan when you feel calm and in control. I also have come to believe that when we are stressed, our bodies pack on the pounds.

So, this workout gives a calmness to your being and in this way you help to control the bodies healing process.

There are four workout levels:

Complete Workout - For anyone who has experience in yoga. All you need is a yoga mat.
Slightly Modified (1/4) - To build strength and stamina.
Partially Modified (1/2) - When your flexibility improves.
Fully Modified - If you have tight hips or hamstrings, you can use a strap, bricks
and a blanket.

All the workouts contain a 10 minute "Body and Breath" warm-up section to loosen the muscles and heat the core. The breathing cues are excellent and you will find yourself enjoying the deep cleansing breaths.

This is followed by "Active Yoga Conditioning." A mirror behind you is helpful at first until you learn to moves. Or you can just do some backwards and still see the screen. Many of the poses where chosen with larger bodies in mind. This is great for people who are just starting yoga. You will notice that three of the instructors are definitely more like the "normal size" woman.

It was comforting to me to see women who modified various poses as I often have to. Instead of feeling like I could not do the poses, I felt I was reaching a level that was comfortable for me. You may also find you can do some of the poses from the advanced level and some from the modified. You feel so proud of yourself when you can finally feel comfortable doing most of the advanced poses.

Finally you enter the 14 minute cool down phase called: "Balance and Relaxation."

During the workout you might notice a Personal Instructor Icon. On my DVD control I had to select the "ok" to get this feature to work. There is also a nice way to get to various workout levels. You just press the "angle" button.

Once you watch the complete workout/combination workout, you can then figure out which level you are at. After watching the combined workout, you will more than likely enjoy just working out with one instructor. You have the choice of four instructors.

I find that my yoga and Pilates workout "moments" have become so healing and nurturing. If you wish to make your setting even more comfortable and are familiar with yoga, I would recommend a nice duvet/comforter covered in a soft fabric. Once folded in half, this gives you a nice soft padded space on which you can place your yoga mat, etc. If you need props, there is information in the pamphlet that is included with the DVD.

Think of exercise as your own private mini-vacation and suddenly exercise is something you start to look forward to. You could also walk for 30 minutes before starting these exercises or walk in the morning and do this video at night.

An exercise program for the entire mind/body/spirit connection. The 16-page full-color pamphlet also contains a mini-nutrition guide, tips on healthy eating and a weight management guide.

Develops concentration, patience, body awareness, muscle tone and a sense of emotional calm.

If you are new to Yoga, this might be the best place to start. I can also recommend "Pilates Conditioning for Weight Loss" with Suzanne Deason.

Great video
Excellent video with 3 sections to the workout.

Should simply be called Yoga conditioning. Soothing.
I'm sure the marketing gurus felt they had to include "for weight loss" in the title. That really doesn't belong. This DVD is more about the smooth, gentleness of yoga. This isn't power yoga. Please read the other reviews regarding the slowness of this DVD. I like its calmness. The music is soothing too. I'm turned off by quick, fat blasting yoga. Fast yoga is like slow aerobics. I like the poses and the length of time they're held. Deeson gives excellent instruction. She's very thorough, even to the point of telling you when to breathe. I don't think that detracts. Her voice is soothing. My only problem with this DVD is that I can't access Deeson's further studio instruction in the modifications. According to the help section of the DVD, it states press the enter button when you see the icon in the corner, which looks like a solid white. On my screen, it's not solid white and when I push enter, nothing happens. Maybe my DVD player is too new or there's a problem with the DVD.

Ehhhh ok
I wasn't crazy about this video. It is good for beginners, but for someone who has practiced yoga before, it just didn't hit the spot.

It WAS painfully too slow (like another reviewer said) and also even the most advanced yoga person performed modified yoga positions that I felt watered down the yoga quite a bit--I did not get even the stretch that I wanted.

The idea of using different views is nice, but I wouldn't recommend this video to anyone I know.

maybe for a couple of pounds, not for the very large
I understand that i may have missed out, but as an absolute beginner, and someone who is very overweight (over 100 pounds, i admit it) I was only able to make it about 15 minutes through the workout. I found that there was little explanation of what was going on, and often, by the time i could see what i was supposed to do, they had already moved on to the next position. also i found that certain body imperfections made it near impossible to do some of the poses correctly, even on the beginner level. ... Read more

Description

The Method(r) brings you the secret to the worlds most beautiful bodies! This double feature DVD combines the best-selling Precision Toning and Precision Sculpting videos featuring instructor Jennifer Kries.She gives clear and precise instructions on how you can tone, firm and flatten your abs without strenuous sit-ups or crunches! Define your buns without lunges, squats or machines and sculpt your legs without high impact aerobics.

In the Precision Sculpting segment,you can tone and trim your arms without heavy weights or boring repetitions, sculpt your chest and shoulders without pushups or chest press machines then trim and define your lower body.

Precision Toning is over an hour and a half of deep muscle techniques and mat based exercises for an all over total body toning & sculpting regime that you can see results on very quickly. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Excellent Instructional Video, But Boring Workout
This tape is excellent as an introduction to the pilates and yoga moves used in The Method series. You will learn the proper forms and breathing patterns. However, because of all the time devoted to instruction, it is not a workout you will do more than a few times (depending on how long it takes you to become accustomed to the correct forms).

Excellent DVD
I was getting tired of my workouts(consisting of weight training/running)and thought I'd give Pilates a try. AT FIRST, I didn't find the workout challenging but there a few things I wasn't doing to maximize my results. (i.e. keeping heels off the floor when in sit-up positions-this enagages the quads continuously). Those of you that say it is not challenging are not performing the exercises correctly or not fully engaging the muscles(which takes a lot of mental concentration). I'm very happy with this DVD and encourage those who are not to give another try with the above mentioned in mind. You won't be disappointed.

Excellent, well-chaptered DVD
I am a big Jennifer Kries fan. I love her newer series (Pilates Method/New Method) and her book, Pilates Plus Method. I tried in the past to get into some of her older stuff- Precision Toning and Precision Sculpting- and while I thought she gave (as always) great instruction, the workouts were very long and I just couldn't see myself making the commitment on a regular basis.

I just recently got this DVD and am now over the moon. It is very well chaptered. If your DVD has a programmable play feature, it's easy to split up the workouts so you don't have to do over an hour (Precision Toning) or forty minutes (Precision Sculpting). Some of my favorite combinations are: the upper body work from PS combined with the side kicks from PT; the matwork/Method Toning (minus the side kicks) from PT; and Toning Essentials from PT and the pelvic lifts/ballet segments from PS. And while figuring out the specific titles/chapters on some DVDs can be a nightmare, this is pretty straightforward: Title 1 is PT, Title 2 is PS, and the chapters for each segment are numbered on the title menu they provide.

Though some may already have other Pilates workouts (even other Jennifer Kries workouts) I still recommend this tape. The side kicks segment alone is worth the money- I could not believe how much my thighs and buttocks burned the first time I did her sequence, and I'd been a Pilates "veteran" for quite some time.

One final comment: when these two workouts were first released, everyone kept going on about how they were "fusion" workouts, combining Pilates, dance and yoga. Having done them, I can guarantee that they are almost completely straight up Pilates (with a little dance thrown in at the end of Precision Sculpting). Yes, we do use Child's Pose a few times, but that move has been used in "pure" Pilates practices for years. Not that this takes anything away from the workouts- I just wouldn't want someone to be disappointed by the lack of yoga on this DVD.

No-nonsense Pilates
I agree with the person who said this is like having a 1:1 trainer. Jennifer Kries is no-nonsense about her explanations and is very clear about breathing and how to hold the positions. No, there's no music, and no, she doesn't smile like a robot and talk endlessly like some exercise personalities do. That is why I find this DVD workout appealing. If you are just wanting to learn the basics of Pilates, this is a challenging workout you will want to do long after you learn the positions. Also, it's great that there are 2 workouts, the "Sculpting" and the "Toning." More advanced Pilates devotees will probably find this boring.

If it's not hard enough. . .
. . . you're not doing ir correctly, according to Joseph Pilates. I agree that the negative reviews here are unwarrented. I have had several Pilates tapes/DVDs AND I have used a certified personal trainer. I am fit and limber -- but I still sweat to this video. Perhaps the problem is not that the video is too easy, but that Kris does not stress enough that you have to be very precise with your movements (or that it's too easy for viewers to skip over that part -- particularly on the DVD version). I've never had a problem with her explainations, but maybe that's because I have had the benefit of one-on-one training. It's a great video for use between trips to the gym/studio. If you know what you're doing, you can use it as a guide and advance your movements according to your level -- even use equipment -- without being distracted by "exciting" graphics and music. But only if you're serious. If you're looking for a hand-holding video, you might want to look at something else. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Through a combination of traditional strength training and progressiveflexibility-enhancing choreography, Minna: Optimizer, Balanced Blend delivers acomprehensive fitness regimen with variety. This DVD format is divided into twoworkouts (approximately 45 minutes each) that concentrate on building and elongatinglean muscle by using aerobic and anaerobic exercise. The first session, FatEliminator, centers around six four-minute circuits that join together cardiovascularand strength work. Plyometric jumps and kicks are spliced between squats, reverselunges, and pushups to create a cross-training effect. Little instruction is provided onproper knee to ankle alignment on lunges and squats, so be sure to watch your form. A15-minute bonus training set that works the upper and lower body with light handweights closes this session. The second workout, Strength and Grace, offers agreat counterbalance to the circuits performed in the first workout. Fundamentalmovements from Pilates, yoga, and modern dance are united here with classic plies, calfraises, and squats. Overall, the legs and upper body are challenged while breathing,balance, and muscle pliability are brought into focus. Optimizer is approachablefor all levels, and the length of the workout can be adjusted. The music is good, withgreat tribal beats and choreography sure to get the heart rate going. --OliviaVoigts ... Read more

Reviews (36)

Excellent !!
I recently purchased this DVD and I absolutely love it. It combines both the Fat Eliminator and Strength & Grace tapes together. Altogether it is 90 minutes long. You can pick and chose which section you want to do b/c it is on a DVD, which is great if you only want to do a few things from each section. I personally loved the work-out I got from the Fat Eliminator section..it really works your muscles. It is an excellent cardio and strength training work-out. You start sweating within 10 minutes of the work-out. It also has 15 minutes of abe work at the end..which is great too. I really enjoy Minna as an instructor also...very easy to follow.

A GREAT no-nonsense workout
I've been excersizing steadily for almost a year now and needed a good cardio DVD to add to my weight training program. So I bought this DVD about 3 weeks ago and I find myself looking forward to doing it each day! The 'Fat Eliminator' segment is really a heart pumping aerobic workout that offers a great mix of varied moves. She alternates between intervals of cardio and strength excersizes so that you never get bored with doing too much of the same thing. It moves fast and by the end you find yourself feeling really great and wanting more! It even includes an extra 15 minutes of spot toning excersizes for the lower, upper and middle body! The other segment for 'Strength and Grace' provides a wonderful challenge for balance and endurance - feels great and is a great lower intensity work out for the in-between days of heavy workouts, or it can be a great unwind workout in the evening after a long, hard day at work! I highly recommend this DVD for anyone who is looking for one DVD that does it all, muscle shaping & toning, cardio, strength and balance. It also helps to know that Minna is a very credible fitness expert with loads of accolades in the field. Finally, her pleasant personality makes it an overall enjoyable experience. This DVD has everything you need to stay in peak physical condition. A truly GREAT buy!

Terrific Value
I'm English, but even with having to pay handling and so on from the States, this was still a great value buy. Although I love American fitness programmes, I am sometimes put off by the ra-ra, clap yourself style of the trainers; Minna is NOT one of those irritations, but is professional, motivating and you know you can trust her on safety issues etc. Getting two workouts was great: the Fat Eliminator, with its cardio and strength training intervals, is a nice, solid workout - not too hard, but you will definitely raise a sweat, particularly if (as another reviewer suggested) you continue to pay attention to your form; Strenth & Grace is I feel often underrated by the reviewers (though of course it all depends which kinds of workouts a person enjoys), as its stretch based moves (not really dance, yoga OR Pilates) are totally brilliant for relieving back pain. At least, as a chronic back pain sufferer, I have found them so - I'm not saying that would be true for everyone. Overall, an excellent buy, and we have nothing in England to rival this.

Pain you will come to crave. Results included.
I won't lie. I hate this workout. Why? Because it is HARD. But I still do it. Why? Because it works. I have become stronger, more toned, pulled in and energized.

This is one video that after you learn the routine either put it on mute or turn your back to the television and just listen to her. It simply takes up entirely too much of your energy to do both. And believe me, you want to get through the workout.

If you don't like loads of leg work this isn't for you. There is a lot of plyometric jumping. Your quads will BURN like crazy (still worth it!) so beware.

The second portion is awful. I never use it EVER. There are so many other quality toning routine videos out there that do so much more for your body, are less confusing and make you want to come back and do it tomorrow. The cover boasts Pilates. If you're going to do pilates, go all the way. For this I am an advocate of the Crunch Series and Jennifer Kries' pilates videos.

Amazing Workout
Holy *expletive*! This is a challenging workout that is sure to get your heart poundin' and your muscles burnin'. I liked Minna's workout segment in the QuickFix TotalMix DVD (also excellent and highly recommended) and decided to buy this DVD. I thought I was getting in good shape already, but this DVD taught me that I have a long ways to go! I can't wait to so the Strength and Grace segment tomorrow! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent workout, excellent instructor!
This workout is simply excellent. It's fun and the moves are effective. The moves are far beyond the "basic" upper body weght training workout. There are twists and turns and the music is fabulous. Janet Brooks is also a supurb instructor. She should be featured more frequently on the FIRM workouts. I was not lost once on my first try. The workout will definitely shape your upper body.

There's no aerobics on this DVD. The warmup is fun and upbeat and then you dive right into thirrty minutes of very unique weight training for the upper body. From uneven push ups and triceps dips to tough lat rows with the FIRM Sculpting Stick, you will finish this workout never wanting to do your plain old weight lifting again. The music is just awesome, choreographed precisely to the moves. And Janet Brooks is a top quality instructor. She makes the first time easy sailing for you- even if you're a novice. This is perhaps the best Upper Body workout DVD out there. It's wonderful!

KITKA ... Read more