Description

Timesaver: Lift Weights To Lose Weight : Two highly efficient 20-minute routines - one for upper body, and one for lower body produces graceful sculpting and helps burn calories Unique Dual Track System allows you to alternate high and low resistance to gain strength and avoid those workout plateaus.Progress to a level that’s right for you.Combine both workouts for an amazing total body routine. Bonus 7-minute workout for Fabulous Abs and a Stronger Back Kathy’s tips on "Looking Thinner With Great Posture" ... Read more

Reviews (4)

one of the best available!
I also don't understand the one-star rating by one reviewer. I have a graduate degree in exercise science, and many years of experience as a personal trainer (focusing on women & weight/strength training) and I found Kathy's dvds to be outstanding. She provides guidance about proper form in a number of ways with each and every exercise. She often starts a new set with instruction (verbally & by demo'ing herself) the right form without any weights in hand - sometimes also by using a smaller version of the movement first and gradually easing into full range of motion. For example, with her squats series - first you do some reps with no weights and by only squatting a little ways down, then a few deeper squats, and finally a few full squats. Throughout these "warm-up" squats, the screen shots include front & side views of Kathy's strict form which really is correct. THEN you pick up your handweights if you want to use them and move into the actual squats sets. On top of that, Kathy also walks amongst the men & women working out on screen with her, stopping to comment on specific aspects of their form, which enables you to see proper form frommany different angles, and also demos how "proper" form can in fact look slightly different with different body types, and/or with modified versions of some exercises.

In addition to all the above, she also includes verbal reminders along the way ("make sure your knees are tracking over your toes... chest up, neck relaxed..." etc). I found her verbal cues about form to be just the right amount - enough to help you ensure your own proper form, but not so constant you wish she'd just shut up. :)

These DVDs, especially #2, have everything you'd need for a very intense & effective upper & lower body strength training routine. At the same time, they are great for beginners who are new to any sort of weight training. The primary difference will be the amount of weight you use with each exercise. And Kathy even provides guidance about that as well - "your muscle should be fatigued by the time you've done 8-12 reps - if not, you can increase to more weight..." She also makes a point of mentioning when she herself is using a lighter or heavier dumbbell from one exercise to another. Your increases/decreases might not always follow hers - amt of weight or even +/- direction - but it should be fairly clear that it's totally normal not to be able to use the same set of dumbbells for every exercise.

I have tried a lot of different weight/strength training videos & dvds. To be honest, I wasn't really sure Kathy's would impress me very much. I was looking for something that would really challenge me, and decided to take a chance since Karen Voight's "great weighted workout" isn't out on dvd yet. I have been extremely pleased with Kathy Smith's Lift Weights to Lose Weight dvds. Vol 2 of LWTLW series has quickly become one of my favorites. With 4 full 20-minute routines (2 upper body, 2 lower body) plus an additional abs workout, you can easily pick one session per day or mix & match for a whole-body workout. And there are many exercises in each lower & upper body routine that also target core strength - something you won't necessarily find in many other strength tapes/dvds (although fyi - Karen Mann's "The Works" box set has some great core strength and "functional strength" exercises too - the kind of strength you use for picking up your child, carrying groceries, climbing ladders to change lightbulbs etc - all those "awkward positions" we all face every day). I highly recommend this series!

Timesaver... best weight workout on market!
I highly disagree with the 1-star rater. Regarding her points first, it moves quickly because the strength training is done using a technique called supersetting. You push yourself and then move quickly in between exercises to move to the next exercise. I found her cheering of "four more" highly encouraging.

I myself, am an aerobics instructor. This video is challenging but appropriate for anyone. You choose your level of weights and you can set it down when it gets to be too much. The exercises move quickly so you won't sit around feeling left out if you choose not to do 6 or 7 reps. You'll get right back into it! I love this video. I was dying to find a way to increase my strength training, and this is it! I even have my boyfriend who is a PE teacher do the arms with me and he loves it. There are men on the video and women and I like that. Kathy looks awesome by the way. This is the best video I've done out of the many I own!

These DVDS will give you results!!
I don't know how great of shape the 1 star reviewer was in....but these DVDS together are great. True, there is no warm-up on Volume 1, but you simply warm up yourself. Big deal. The point is, the reps are challenging and great for beginners in Volume 1. They tend to feel quick as the workout flies by in no time. There is a great adherence to proper form!! Volume 2 takes it to the next level to really tone the little muscles in your body. Trust me, I own and have tried a plethora of exercise DVDS and these have given me great results. Yes, Kathy Smith is annoying - obviously - but the bottom line is...you will see results and totally feel the burn the next day. For Volume 2, I find the cool downs not long enough, so I simply hit "pause" and cool down a bit more. Exercise DVDS can't be everything to everyone, but if they work, you have to simply modify it for your own needs. These workouts are not 1 star workouts - trust me.

Irritating and Unwatchable
First of all this is NOT a workout for beginners. I consider myself to be in good shape and an intermediate at working out, but I was left feeling frequently lost in the dust. The repetitions were too fast without any emphasis on proper form. Kathy also moves too quickly from one exercise to the next without giving you any time to grab your weights. There is no warm-up included, though she advises you to do one before hand. (It's not really a 20 minute workout if she expects you to warm up on your own beforehand.) But what I found most irritating was Kathy constantly barking orders like a drill sergeant to the toned, buff and scantily-clad men and women in the class: "OKAY, GIVE ME FOUR MORE!" and her frequent "whoops." Struck me as almost sado-masochistic.

My favorite weight-training video remains "Strong Women Stay Young" available through the "As We Change" catalogue. It moves much slowly (but no less intensely) with much more attention to proper form and detail. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Arnold Schwarzenegger works the crowds, plots strategies for defeating multiple opponents, shares his parents' values with the press, and inspires legions of admirers with his resolute optimism about the future. And all of this long before he decided to run for governor of California, in 1977's hit documentary, Pumping Iron. Larger than life, though not necessarily larger than his rivals for the Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia bodybuilding titles (especially a young Lou Ferrigno, hot on Arnold's competitive trail but much less interesting), Schwarzenegger still comes across, at age 28, as a consummate politician, smart, likable, and crafty about exploiting others' psychological weaknesses. The film still feels redundant (there's only so much beefcake the human eye will tolerate), but the emotional dramas--the unrewarded hard work, the unanswered hopes--are compelling. Complete with a revealing 2003 interview with Schwarzenegger and a reunion of the film's bodybuilders and director. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (115)

Docudrama
The 25th anniversary edition of Pumping Iron is loaded with special features and behind the scenes footage of the making of the self-titled "docudrama." All the bodybuilders and filmmakers are interviewed, looking back 25 years ago to what really happened. It's amazing to see that a good portion of the film was actually complete fabrication. Nobody ever hid Katz's t-shirt, for example - the scene with Waller saying he was going to hide it actually was shot well after the competition where he lost it. Ferrigno's father wasn't actually involved in his training - they asked him to fake that so they could paint Lou's character differently. These are just a couple of the secrets that are revealed on the DVD. If you are a fan of the film, you need to get this to see how much true info was left out.

If you haven't seen the movie, I highly recommend it, even if you have no interest in bodybuilding. It's a fascinating look into the world of bodybuilders from a safe distance. This is also the dawn of the golden age of the sport, when it was really just getting started in Venice Beach.

This edition of the DVD exposes some remarkable secrets about the original, as well as all the info you could ever want about Arnold. Very entertaining.

A Slice of History from the Golden Age of Bodybuilding
Pumping Iron essentially follows four bodybuilders, two professional (Arnold Schwarzenegger & Lou Ferigno) and two amatuers (Mike Katz & Ken Waller)as they train and compete for their sport's top prize, Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe, respectively. The setting is 1975 and the contests take place in Pretoria, South Africa.

There are also several vignettes describing the backgrounds of the competitors listed above as well as Franco Columbo. In addition to the background of the main competitors, we get to see a side of them that is unknown to the audience (at that time) - such as Arnold's use of psychology against opponents and his unsatisfied thirst for victory.

Visually, the training at Gold's Gym in Venice,CA and the posedown at the contests, are stunning. I would have liked to see more training and contest footage (I'm sure it exists) but perhaps they are saving it for a DVD edition (if it ever gets made).

Overall, this is an excellent video tape to own. If you are a bodybuilding fan, this will undoubtedly provide you with motivation and insight. If you are not a fan, this may be what makes you one.

Greatest!
Best documentary EVER. Arnold mentions in the extras they called it a "docudrama" rather than a documentary, but it is--even if some if fictionalized. It's great, captures the essence of the sport and the drive to be the best. And Arnold's attitude brings along great humor!

good movie
this movie wasnt that bad,if your into weight lifting,bodybuilding.this is the movie for you.There are all the classic lifters,lou,franco,aronld,and more.I recommend it as a buy it movie , more then a rent it.

Motivation
A lot of other people who reviewed this movie wrote about the "psychological" aspect of it and how Arnold was able to psych out Lou Ferrigno to win the 1975 Mr. Olympia title. The fact is that most of what happens in the movie is acting, except for the training scenes and the actual contest outcome. This is what I want to focus my review on. Arnold retired from the sport of bodybuilding before I was born, so like many people my age the only way we could see Arnold training was through black and white photos in his Bodybuilding Encyclopedia book. However, this DVD brings those pictures to life and now you can see Arnold training "in motion" for the first time (although it is less than 10 minutes of the movie). Two scenes in particular that really give you an idea of how hard he used to train is when he does T Bar Rows and Squats. Its unbelievable, the guy was a machine. I have watched this movie so many times before I went to the gym and it is a great way to get motivated. And as good as the movie is the extras are even better. The interview with Arnold is very interesting and so are the behind the scenes footage. The movie itself is very well done, Arnold has some hilarious quotes but the best thing about it are the training scenes. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Excellent weight body sculpting workout
I like Stephanie Corley very much as an instructor, this workout was a perfect length 45 min and had so many additonal sculpting exercises i KNOW will be feeling it tomorrow as much as any aerobic step workout. Excellent!

This is a total body workout
This is 45 minutes of a total body workout. It goes by fast but the results are great. After doing this workout the first day, my body felt it the next. Some people don't think you need the fanny lifter, I did try this workout and some of the Firms others without the fanny lifter and the results are not the same. Especially doing the leg press, the lifter is needed. The instructor is great, even paced and keeps you motivated to finish the workout. The last segment is the ab segment and it is short, sweet, to the point and effective. The other DVD of the Firms I would recommend is the Body Sculpt with Jennifer Carmen, that workout is 55 minutes and you definately feel it.

Efficient total body workout
Stephanie Corley is one of the best of the new Firm instructors. Like most Firm instructors, she cues moves and changes very well. However, unlike a good number of them, she manages to be motivating without being condescending and uses a lot of clear visualizations.

The workout, designed by Corley, is efficient and hits everything. Those who want the more traditional Firm approach incorporating multi-body part moves (e.g., bicep curls as you squat) or mixing upper body and lower body exercises (e.g., lunges followed by lat rows followed by dips) will be disappointed. This is more "gym style" in it's approach, working Upper Body, Lower Body, then Abs. However, within each section, Corley mixes body parts. So within Upper Body, you would work triceps, then biceps, then triceps, then back to biceps. With a change in lifting tempo (1 up, 1 down, then 2 up, 2 down, then maybe a 3-count pulse), it's unlikely that you'll be bored though.

I always find that if I heavy up on the Firm leg exercises I get into my aerobic training zone. This was no exception. Mercifully, however, this workout only has two sets of the famous tall step leg press and only (I believe) 1 set of lunges and dips each. You'll be working, but you won't be dying. It's worth noting that all of the exercises in the Lower Body section are standing- if you want floorwork, look elsewhere.

The abwork is a nice, short mix of traditional ab crunches and some Pilates-inspired moves (leg pulls, leg lowering). Probably my least favorite section (I'm not a fan of traditional ab work), but nothing wrong with it.

A tall step (12 to 14 inches) is required, particularly for the leg presses. I use a sturdy stool. The 6 inch step is used here to aid in the lunges and dips, but if you've lunged before without a step, you'd probably be fine. Those with not so great knees (like yours truly) will probably want to use the 6 inch step.

Each workout includes a warmup and a stretch. This is a great tape for those who are consistently short on time but want to get in a thorough sculpting workout.

My FAVORITE firm tape!!!
Ok, I have the worst knees in the world and this workout is FINE! (someone said to skip this workout if you have bad knees) Recent research has proven that for maximum fat loss one needs 25% cardio and 75% resistance training. This tape is almost perfect for that! (See Business Plan for the Body)

This tape is divided into 3 sections, each 15min. I try to do all of them at once and it is exhusting!
Each muscle group is worked to resistance and there is no time wasting dancing around!!!
I use this tape on my body sculpting days and alternate it with cardio and the newer body sculpt with abs. I would do only this one on my sculpt days but you know that "muscle confusion" is important!
The entire body is worked, including abs. Also, you can adjust this workout by increasing or decreasing your weights.

Great for those who don't live to work out
I don't like being "forced" to do an hour long workout but I find that I can do it. I've finally whipped my butt into shape with this video without feeling exhausted afterwards. This video works all the major muscle groups, mostly to fatigue, especially my triceps and shoulders which tend to be my weakest areas. It seems a bit light in the back work, but then again it's difficult to build back muscles with dumbbells alone. For those of you who hate pushups, fortunately there aren't too many of these. I couldn't get these results with the older Firm videos I tried, maybe because I can't get myself to stick with it for the long haul. You don't need to kill yourself for an entire hour to get into great shape; it's all about the method, not the time. Interestingly enough, I actually have the motivation to go through all the segments (total 40 minutes) and then do my cardio workout (adds another 1/2 hour). The DVD is segmented into upper body, lower body, and abs. Remember, you can always increase your weights when they become too light. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Best Lower Body Workout- PERIOD
I purchased this DVD in the original Super Sculpting Six Pack by the FIRM. I was immediately impressed with it. For only thirty minutes, it most certainly will reshape your lower body.

Squats, leg press, plies, lunges, and dips are all here. The three big super sets of weight training are complete- this even gets the calves, a muscle group missed in pre-2001 FIRM workouts. The pace is kept interesting by the two short aerobic bursts in the middle. Lisa Kay leads the video. She is an upbeat and motivating instructor with great cueing.

The music is cool. The warm up and ending stretches are sufficient. You can't go wrong. It's a great workout! KITKA ... Read more

Description

In this follow-up to Lift Weights to Lose Weight, Kathy Smith’s taken the best of weight training and added a twist!This time saving workout combines the core strengthening principles of Pilates with balance principles of Yoga for a total body strength-training workout. You’ll notice a big difference—not just in how you look, but in how you move, stand, and especially, how you feel! ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Fairly good with some technical problems
I have loved Kathy Smith workout tapes/discs for years. I'm glad she did this type of a workout but I have a few issues with it: 1) The lower body section relies too heavily on squats which can lead to an imbalance in muscle development, 2) the abdominal section is not that great, 3) the stretching sections are pretty fast, 4) sometimes I wished for a better view of proper positioning or technique.

Technically, there are a couple of problems with the DVD: 1) The main menu is incomplete. Hello! What's the problem here???? 2) Free stability ball workout? I don't think so. At least not on my disk and apparently not on some of the other reviewers' copies either. These kinds of mistakes are foolish in this day and age.

I did think that the upper body work out was unique and challenging. I also think that it is fairly easy to scale this workout to your fitness level. She's no nonsense, not annoying, and they keep the silly production stuff to a minimum.

I LOOOOOOOOVE this workout!
I am new to exercise, having dropped just over 50 pounds in the last year...and I've always hated exercise...until just recently. (Now I work out 5-6 days a week, and I crave it!) I started with the DVD from the weight loss program I was on, and did that for about 2 months until boredom set in. Then I discovered Kathy Smith! Lift Weight to Lose Weight is the 5th Kathy Smith video I've purchased, and is already my favorite. I love the programmable feature--one of my other DVD's was supposed to have that, and it didn't work. I love the squat section, the glute section (OH MY WORD! The glute section!), the standing upper body section (she nearly kills me on the triceps part every time); I haven't tried the stability ball workout yet, so I don't really feel qualified to comment on that. I don't know about anyone else, but when I finish this workout, I feel fantastic! I know it's making a difference...I was sore, GOOD sore for at least two days, the first few times I did the routines. I'm so glad I purchased this one--it was money well spent.

Great Workout!
I have no time to workout as a stay at home mom of two kids - 27 and 9 months old. I bought this DVD to try to get a little weight training in and in only 20 minutes I get a great workout! I love it! If I can find 20 minutes to do it anyone can. The DVD is easy to follow and Kathy is not annoying at all. I was able to find the bonus routines quite easily, you need to go to the next screen(there is a little arrow on the bottom). I like that I can do a 10 min. segment on arms and a 10 mins segment on legs and I'm done, or I can do all arms or all legs. Either way it is only 20 mins!

Finding Incomplete Menu
A couple of reviews noted that there was no stability ball workout and an incomplete menu. I had the same issue and then finally figured it out. What appears to be the main menu is actually just the first of 2 main menus. To get to the second you need to select the triangle at the bottom. This takes you to the second menu and allows you to access the stability ball workout ( which is fun).

Muscles Have Love/Hate Relationship with this DVD
Kathy Smith is one of my favorites. I like that this video challenges my muscles to the point where I can feel them the next day. If you don't enjoy the next day "good" hurt, you can use lighter weights or no weights at all.

In spite of the fact that the DVD cover boasts of a non existent 20-minute stability ball workout, I highly recommend this workout DVD. ... Read more

Description

We've blended Pilates with handweights in one extraordinaryworkout. It's like a shortcut to your leanest, firmest body ever.Pilates is one of the best workouts to make your body leaner and isknown for creating sleek abs and firm buns. Body sculpting with weightscreates unparalleled muscle tone and definition - for sexy arms and thekind of legs that turn heads.Now you can get the best of Pilates andthe best of sculpting in one easyto- follow workout, that's under anhour. Tracy and Michelle have skillfully combined the most effectiveelements of Pilates and sculpting into a one-ofa- kind workout designedto tone and tighten your entire body.Pilates Sculpt will make the mostof your workout time and deliver RESULTS! The Instructors

MICHELLE DOZOIS is co-owner of Breakthru Fitness, a personal trainingand Pilates conditioning studio in Pasedena, California. She is a formerWorld Aerobic champion and has appeared in over 15 fitness videos. TRACYYORK is an internationally known fitness professional who trains otherinstructors worldwide. Tracy has starred in over 20 best-selling fitnessvideos. Please consult your physician before beginning this or anyexercise program. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

it's a good pain though
Ever wake up the morning after a workout and you feel it all over? Not usually. I generally feel it in one place or another but not in every single muscle group in my body. Well, this DVD was an exception. I ache in places I didn't know I had muscles - and it's a GOOD ache. A feeling of accomplishment! The great thing about this program is the variety of exercises. These ladies somehow manage to give you an effective workout without making you do countless masochistic reps of the same exercise. Come on! Just 50 more! You can do it! Yeah, right... You are constantly switching positions and for almost every exercise there is a moderate version you can do that allows you to still benefit without hurting yourself or looking really silly trying to do something too advanced. This is one I will definitely stick with.

I LOVE this DVD
I have not been able to find an exercise DVD that made me want to do it again, until now. I absolutely LOVE this DVD.
As a beginner, I know that I will be able to use this DVD for some time to come. The reason I know this is because the two instructors give you a modified stance and an advanced stance. I am still on the modified stance (for some, not all), which means I will advance with this DVD.
I am very pleased with the soreness I feel because I KNOW that I was working out. I would strongly recommend this DVD to ANYONE interested in Pilates.

Wonderful
I am an avid at-home workout fiend. I think this video does exactly what it claims to--sculpts!!!!! Note: You will need hand weights with this DVD. Also, it is not just pilates. It starts with a lot of leg exercises(lunges) and it will really sculpt your entire body... abs, arms, shoulders, legs!!! A great purchase.

Exercises to strengthen the body & tone the muscles
Featuring instructors Michelle Dozois (co-owner of Breakthru Fitness), and Tracy York (an internationally known fitness professional and trainer of instructors), Pilates Sculpt is a 55-minute, full-color video workout featuring hand weight training and Pilates exercises to strengthen the body, tone the muscles. Designed to give serious exercisers the maximum impact in a minimum amount of time, Pilates Sculpt (which is also available in a $14.98 DVD format) will make an enthusiastic and energetic addition to any community library exercise video reference collection or individual fitness program supplement.

Wonderfully compact
I thought that it was a very thorough workout. The time was not wasted. I was happy with the clear instructions. ... 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

Reviews (27)

i love this workout
i have several of the Firm on VHS, they are an excellent tape to get into aerobic weight training. i love the interval training concept as i do not have the attention span for workouts that its just all one thing repeated like say step. the interval part keeps me from quitting as i know i wont be doing say ABS or LUNGES for very long and its on to the next exercise. i bought this workout on DVD to spring myself into getting back into working out and its really helped me stay on track and found this an excellent fun workout i especially love the cardio kickboxing. i look forward to doing this workout and have recommendeed it to several friends who have asked me how i'm losing my weight as consistantly as i have been.. i'm VERY happy to say i see continuing results, at firsti took it easy and did some of this workout but over time i did add segments and still do not do the whole workout mostly cause i would like to be able to MOVE the next day. its an exceleent workout.. Emily is a wonderful instructor and would like to see more firm workouts taught by her. good luck to anybody starting an exercise plan!

Perfect Workout
I have been using the firm for 2 years and this is the absolute best video they have made. Emily makes the video fun and easy to follow. She switches from weights to cardio a few times and then to the arms and abs. It is a great one hour workout and I recommend this video to people who need that extra visible result they have been looking for, this one covers all the bases. Don't forget to purchase your firm fanny lifter and sculpting stick, you need 3, 5 and 8 pound dumb bells. The firm by far is a great program for me and I hope that you give any firm video a try because it's great for your heart and their cardio routines are fun, the fanny lifter makes you work your thighs and butt it's really a great system I actually recommend the whole program, hoping that it will work for you.

I'm a Firm fan
I have had this workout a few weeks and am really enjoying it. I mix it up with other Firm workouts among other things.

I do think the intensity level, especially for cardio, is quite a bit lower than some of the older Firm tapes. However, it is still challenging enough for me (an intermediate level aerobics person) to get up a good sweat.

I did get the Fanny Lifter as I think it adds a lot to the Firm workouts (although this workout only did one or two sets of step-ups with the Lifter). I don't think the sculpting stick is needed for this one. The twigs can be duplicated by using 16 oz. cans from the kitchen, and I think using the stick for balance actually lessens the intensity of some of the exercises.

As others have mentioned, I'm not sure I like the production of the newer Firm workouts as much. The workout participants seem even more smiley and plasticky and fake than usual. The main instructor on this workout, though, is very good. Cues are spot-on, and she is upbeat without being overly peppy.

I'd recommend this one.

Another top-notch Firm workout
This is another effective Firm workout that is both challenging, fun, yet doesn't aggravate my bad back. My only beef with this workout is that the instructor, Emily, keeps saying "whoo" throughout the workout. Ease up on the fake-sounding enthusiasm. But the workout itself is great. I definitely recommend the Fanny Lifter with all these new tapes. This tape doesn't rely on the Sculpting stick too much so you could get away without it and not lose much effect.

Work wonders
The only thing that this workout needs when you are doing it is some good company to exercise along with you, otherwise from that, this is one killer workout.
I was considering spending some money that i didn't have and going to the gym, but a friend of mine loan me this dvd and i am hooked, i am sticking to the 10 day regime and see what happens. Right now i am on day five and i have seen results. This is one dvd i WILL recommend. i am about to buy another one or two of The Firm and let you guys know about it. ... Read more

Reviews (111)

A Terrific Workout with Terrific Results
I love this tape. I got it about six months ago and have been doing it about twice a week and I couldn't be happier with the results. This tape will get your arms and legs in terrific shape (the ab program is a little too short for me, frankly) if you do it faithfully, and the tape is so enjoyable, that it's easy to do faithfully. As she points out in the video, building muscle helps you lose weight, and this video will help you reach your goal. As other reviewers have stated, she offers two tracks, complete with guidance as to who should do what when, and recommends beginning weights. Her direction is terrific and the tape really flows. She's energetic, without being overly peppy (as I find her in some other videos). Unlike a lot of other tapes, you don't waste time listening to instruction, you are working out for the entire 40 minutes. Kathy Smith has split the tape into two 20 minute workouts (upper and lower body) which is really helpful when you've got limited time to workout.

Bottom line, Kathy Smith has designed a terrific workout tape that is easy to stick with and will give you the results you want.

Great for all over body toning
This is my favorite video. In the past I have used Kathy's Functionally Fit-Lower Body Firming tape and found that to be very effective, but had to do other tapes for arms, abs, etc. This tape combines 3 complete workouts: 1 for your upper body and arms, 1 for your lower body, and 1 for your abs. Each exercise is just long enough so that you feel the burn, but don't have to quit early. The entire tape (all 3 workouts) takes just under an hour, but you can split it up if you feel like only working certain parts. The upper and lower body workouts also have 2 tracks - using heavier weights, or lighter weights and more repetitions which makes for a nice change of pace. Kathy whoops and yells a little more than in her other videos, but the workout is good enough that I just ignore it!

Results!
This workout is great. I have been using it for over a year and I love the results. I have recommended it to friends and they love it too. I too was a lightweight- I began this workout using 2 and 3 lb weights. You have to gradually work up to heavier weights. I now use 8lbs for most of the exercises in the upper body workout. I love Kathy's style- I do not think she is annoying. She is just trying to keep you motivated! At least she is not fake like other instructors- she is herself. Take it or leave it. I would take it though- since she must be doing something right (just look at her). If you are a beginner, make sure you have your weights ready to go, because it will seem fast at the beginning. After a few times though, you will get the hang of it. Results don't come easily. It will hurt. Your arms will feel like wet noodles afterwards (will hurt to lift an apple), but that means it is working! Do not be intimidated if you are a beginner- trust me- I had never lifted a weight in my life until I began this video. I prefer using a weight bench (40 bucks for a decent one at walmart) because there are certain exercises that are difficult to get good form on without a bench. Remember progress takes time! I also LOVE her step aerobic workout tape called Fat Burning Breakthrough, which combines step aerobics with upper body weights. Whew! It will do a number on you!

Fast Paced, It Works; Go Easy If You're a Beginner!
I exercise regularly, mainly Body Electric, Yoga, & Pilates. I wanted to "rev" up my workouts by adding aerobics (I'm waiting for K.S.'s aerobic tapes) & fat burning weight routines. In other words, I needed to "mix up" & add variety to my workouts. This tape really does it. While yes, she does go a bit fast, & there's intro that one will eventually skip, if one has the patience to "work into" the routine, you'll catch on, adjust the levels, and end up doing a fantastic workout that will keep your workouts fresh & have your muscles thanking you! I agree that a "bench" in not really needed for some routines, but this is a slickly produced product that gets the job done. Again, this is fast-paced & there really is not "warm up" involved. I would suggest a bit of stretching before "jumping" into the routine, or "warm up" during her intro. Also, as one becomes familiar with the routines, one can (and should) have all the necessary equiptment ready, because this routine goes quickly. Beginners, go easy & split the routines; die hards, do both routines in one session unless time is a problem. If that's the case, alternate routines & work to the max!

Kathy smith- timesaver-lift weights to lose weight
I am in good shape but wanted a quick workout with weights to increase metabolism. I love this video. I use it daily. Upper one day and lower body the next. I am 34 and I use the exercise bike daily too. I have noticed firmer and more toned muscles and am excited about them finally showing up. I didn't enjoy Kathy's second volume. I went back to this one immeditately. ... Read more

Description

From the creator of PUMPING IRON - the film that made Arnold Schwarzenegger a household name - comes a film about blood, sweat, and beauty. PUMPING IRON II focuses on five, top female bodybuilders - Rachel McLish, Bev Francis, Lori Bowen, Carla Dunlap, and Lydia Cheng - each armed with an iron determination and the courage of a lioness, as they prepare for the Caesars Palace World Cup Championship. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Historic and fun
This short documentary explores the world of competitive female bodybuilding during the early 1980's. This film is true to the era with heavy makeup, spandex, bad hair and a moonwalk included during a posing routine. The film ponders the the level of acceptable muscularity that a woman should posess and examines the judging of a competitor who at the time was bigger than any other woman who ever stood on the competitive stage -- Australian power lifter Bev Francis. By current standards, Bev would fit right in and might actually be on the small side as compared to other female professional bodybuilders, but by 1983's standards, she was considered a freak. Neither the judges nor the competitors could come to a consensus about the ideal. The first Ms. Olympia Rachel McLish was more along the lines of what the public expected of female bodybuilders -- sleek, with some definition and feminine. McLish and the others look more like today's fitness competitors. Carla Dunlap had considerable size, but was still smaller than Francis who she said "Has muscularity that most men would envy."

Female bodybuilding is still a fringe activity, and this film shows some of what the pioneers endured in the early days. And much like today, the officials and trainers are mostly male.

I enjoyed this movie for its camp value, but it's also a nice history lesson for female physique competitors.

Documentary of Wos. Professional Bodybuilding's top contest
In 1985, Women's Professional Bodybuilding was in it's infancy. Men's Bodybuilding had already been explored in the "Pumping Iron" documentary, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Now, we are taken in the gym and backstage at the premiere Professional Bodybuilding event for Women. Controversey arises, when one entrant (Bev Francis) is more bulky and muscular than other more svelte (Rachel McLish) entrants. Just what constitutes a Women's Bodybuilding Champion? The woman that is most muscular, or the one that looks more like the average woman's ideal?

Truely inspirational!
I was so enraged at the sexism displayed by the judges and some of the other girls in this film I immediatley afterward went to the gym and hit the weights extra heavy with extra reps. Watch how Bev Francis was shafted and changed the face of womens bodybuilding forever. The feminine debate goes on...

Good movie, poor transfer
I saw this film when it first came out in the theaters. I remember I went in wanting Rachel McLish, respecting Carla Dunlap, and repulsed by Bev Francis. I came out of the theater wanting Carla Dunlap, respecting Bev Francis, and repulsed by Rachel McLish. I was about 21 at the time.

I am giving this film only three stars because, while "Pumping Iron II" is a well made film, it is a poorly made DVD. The film looks underexposed throughout and somewhat grainy in places. I realize the distributor is a small company but a little more effort could have been put into the transfer. If they could manage to get Geroge Butler (the director) to do commentary then one would think they could manage to procure a better quality print (or even make a print from the negative) for DVD release. The photos in the still gallery that come in the Extras are digital crisp, even when viewed with the "zoom" feature on your remote. They should have put the same cleanup effort into the movie itself.

Speaking of extras, why is there no commentary from any of the principal participants/competitors themselves? This film was such a big break for all of them that I can't believe the producers couldn't get even one of them to offer their insights. A film like this needs some historical perspective, IMHO. Still, it's a good movie, worth buying if you're a fan of women's bodybuilding, or interested in women's studies.

Why isn't Pumping Iron on DVD
Don't care to watch this DVD but I would love to own the original Pumping Iron on DVD. That's It! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The Best Workout - EVER!
I love the Firm workout tapes. I used them before my wedding trying to get fit. They really do work in 10 workouts or less! Once I had my baby, I started using them again, and with no doubt, they worked! This is the only workout that I really enjoy, I don't have to work out for 2 or 3 hours to get the effective results. I think about this workout when I'm not doing it, and I really enjoy it! I recommend this and any other tapes from the series to anyone. Trust me, you just put in the work, and the workouts do the rest! They're not easy, but they are effective!

Other Ab videos are better
I prefer Karen Voigt's BLT (or any ab segment from her), Tamilee Webb's I Want Those Abs, or the Firm's 5 Day Abs. This is the longest of all those and the least difficult.

This ab workout is purrrrrfect!
Meow! As a user of older Firm videos, I purrrrsonally think these new workouts are alot better. Why? Because they don't make you feel burned out like older FIRM videos did. They are just right. And in two shakes of a cat's tail, you can get a great ab workout with this program. There are some great moves that challenged this cat. I was a two twenty pound dumbell user on the heaviest with the older firm tapes, and the new tapes challenged me! It's just that they don't leave me ready for a cat nap, just ready for action! I feel energized to make it through my day. I found the core strengthening on this workout highly effective, and the music was awesome! definitely worth your money.

Kitka

...

Quick and Painless
I wouldn't go so far as to say that this video is easy. But while most ab routines leave you sore afterward, this one does a good job of letting you feel that you're working while you're working and not for hours or days afterward - it's easy to pick it up again the next day. The workout features a good mix of upper, lower and oblique work as well as some balancing. The routine also features a person for beginners to follow so you don't overdo it. The fanny lifter is not essential here as it is only used as something to rest your feet on - a chair or high stool works fine. If you fast forward through the intro material and the breathing exercises, the routine only takes up 15-20 minutes of your time making it easier to fit it into your day or alongside of a regular workout. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

good
Pleasant instructor, with an Ausie type accent (if your a guy and you like that kind of thing, she's also an attractive brunette) Not over powering workout. I do this work out regularly. The only thing I didn't like about it is that they call it "Cardio sculpt". Which is fine, but I didn't find much cardio in it, which was what I was really looking for. Have a light and a heavy set of weights for this, it makes it more challenging. (which she mentions in the begining)

Good solid beginner-intermediate cardio workout
I think this is an enjoyable way to work-out at home, without signing up to costly gyms or buying expensive workout equipment.

If you are advanced, you may find that you will grow out of this video rather quickly. But if you are a beginner, or a moderately fit person, or getting into the workout scene just recently, this is the ideal tape for you. I am moderately fit, although not very strong, and I found that this helps work and strengthen my muscles, and fulfill that cardio work suggested by many fitness experts.

The instructor is fun and energetic - I enjoy watching her and working out alongside her instructions (upbeat and encouraging, not overbearing or intrusive). The group in the background is also pleasant and friendly looking, the music is non-intrusive and enjoyable. The instructor takes you through exercise that work your whole body, esp the abs at the end, brings up your heart rate and allows you to cool down all in 35-40 minutes - I enjoy it alot and really wish there was an additional 5-10 minutes (that's why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5)

The additional 10 minute bun workout video is also fun and effective.

boring
The instructor is annoying. The workout is too easy. I didn't feel like I got a workout after doing it. My grandma could do this video! The only difficult part is the ab work @ the end.

Crunch - Cardio sculpt: The body sculpting fat burner blast
I think this video is great!!! It is fast paced using various types of weights. After viewing it a couple of times I was able to follow the entire tape. You can really feel your muscles getting worked out to the fullest.

I love it!!
I think this is one of the best workout tapes!! I saw results in less than a week (i did the work out 3x). And this is a short video, which i think is perfect. I have a young son and he sits on my bed and plays for a half hour while i work out. It's just long enough. It also works the entire body. This is good video. ... Read more

Description

This tape is excellent for those just beginning in weight training or for those who really want to do it the right way right from the get go.Charles Glass is probably the most famous of all weight training coaches in the world.Shot on location at Gold’s Gym Venice Beach California Charles will show you the right way to develop yourself physically so that you maximise your time on weight training.If you are now doing weights and you are just not sure if your doing it right this is the tape for you. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Bad Video
Absolutely awful, a complete waste of money.I'm embarrassed that I spent my money on this.Please, I beg you to save your money.

don't even think about it
This is the absolute worst training video ever made... its not even worth going into details about ... just pass on it ok? ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Another great Firm
I really liked this DVD. I was drenched in sweat in minutes, and I'm in good shape!! I like that it is a total body workout. The step parts are great you do need a short step for a lot of them. My husband made me a tall one and I really need a short one now. It's more cardio than most Firm videos but I really wish it had more. That's the only reason it gets 4 stars.

Excellent workout
I am just about to get this DVD to replace the video that came with my body sculpting system 1. I have used it so much that the tape is wearing out!

This workout is an excellent total body workout that will strenghten your muscles and firm you up. It is more of a weights workout than cardio workout, but combined together they pack a punch! The instructions are crystal clear and easy to follow.

A word of advice for those with weaker knees: you will most likely want to modify; that is what I do. I do my lunges without weights and use lighter weights when doing hover squats and leg presses.

Makes you sweat!
I own this as part of the 3 pack body sculpting system. since I just started the 30 day rotation schedule they suggest (available on their website), I am still just using this one....

What a workout! I am a runner, and was in training for a half marathon when I got tendon issues and the doc said to cut down on the mileage. I decided to go back to workouts at home, and picked up this system. I already own my own reebok step, adn I haven't had any problems using that instead of their fanny lifter, although mine doesn't go up to 14 inches, just 10 inches, I was so sore after the first time, I had trouble squatting or sitting for 3 full days!

This is a 60 min workout that alternates weights with some low impact cardio bursts, plus a great ab section. Like I said, I consider myself to be in pretty decent shape, but this has me sweating like a pig (and in an AC room mind u).

highly recommend this as a stand alone or good cross training tape to alternate with others. would have had 5 stars, but i find the constant moving and breaking down of the fanny lifter annoying (harder to do with my step), and they don't give much guidance on form, which may be a problem for beginners.

Made the cat purrrr!
Hello!

I loved this workout. Kind of cat-chy. It was just the right intensity with intervals of aerobics and weight training. I loved the music as well, and was quite challenged with the lower body super set near the middle of the workout. The table work for the legs was also supurrrrb! It felt my glutes and hamstrings get that 'healthy burn", and the music for the tablework was cool, as well. I love the new FIRM so much better than the older ones. These are more beginner friendly, and after alternating only new videos, I feel stronger, healthier and energetic. Whereas the older videos left me feeling tired all day long. Try this! You'll love it. You'll feel bright eyed and bushy tailed! And Allie is one of the best intructors.

Miss Kitka ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great Choice for Cardio!
I love this workout. The steps are somewhat complex, but I don't get bored. Lisa Kay is great in her cueing and enthusiam. This is the 4th, post-2001 Firm workout that I've purchased, and I love them all...because I get results. In just a few months, my dress size has gone from 8 to 6 or 4, without modifying my diet. I'm an upper, intermediate level 40-something exerciser who does strength training and aerobics 3/4 times a week. When I used 5 lb. weights instead of 3 lb., this video gave me a challenging workout in a short amount of time. Most of The Firm videos have more sculpting/toning, which is good because you get cadio as well. However, if you want cardio only, this is a must-have! Recently, I bought the Body Sculpting System 1, which is mostly toning, so this one is a nice change, and I am definitely adding it to my Firm video rotation.

I hate cardio, but I like this
This Firm video's main focus is on cardio unlike most of their other videos, but it still uses light weights (3 to 5 lb) for about half of the time. I always hated cardio workouts until I found this one. It's only 30 minutes long (including the warmup, cooldown and all the stretches) but that time just flies by with the high-energy music and the variety of exercises (floor, step work, four-limb moves, etc...), it makes it feel more like dancing. You don't need more space than what's required for a grapevine and these steps are mostly classic aerobic moves: grapevine, jacks, etc, and a little samba thrown in. Using the weights adds to the intensity, and I don't feel burned out afterwards... a problem I have with other cardio workouts (mostly boredom, sometimes exhaustion). I normally dislike step routines but I actually enjoyed this one. The choreography (particularly the step segment) took some getting used to but it's nothing a klutz can't handle... eventually. Since the weight work is very light, this is something I could do every day. I've actually lost fat supplementing my other Firm videos with this one three or four times a week and without having to modify my diet. In general, I still hate cardio but I'll always be reaching for this one.

This one is GREAT...
I am a HUGE fan of the FIRM. I've lost a lot of weight and gotten so much stronger with the FIRM system. This video is really awesome because it is challenging but time will just wiz by. The steps do take a little time to get used to. I disagree with one of the other reviewers who said that Lisa (the instructor) does a poor job teaching the steps. She does not hold your hand and break down each move, but the moves are not complicated. You can pick it up by watching 1 pass and following along. Overall, this is one of my favorite FIRM's because it goes by quick and it gives your muscles abreak from the heavy weights. This is one every FIRM lover should buy.

Waste of money
I consider myself to be a veteran of home workout videos. This is the WORST of all time. The lead instructor flies through the movements without doing counts or adequate reps or instruction in a horrid twang that rings of an overly peppy cheerleader who is nothing but pure fluff. I am VERY disappointed with this purchase. The other FIRM videos with other instructors are much better---stay away from this airhead who blitzes through the workout without sufficient instruction.

Time Flies with this workout!!!
I just love this video!! I have all of the Firm videos, the fanny lifter, the stick..etc. I love this one because it is perfect for when you don't have a lot of time but you want to get in a good workout that isn't boring. I have been easing back into exercising after having a baby and after doing this routine just once, BOY! I could really feel it in my thighs, my buns, and my arms. The routine is easy to follow and it is safe. ALot of attention given to your butt and thighs with all of the squats. The music is ok, but hardly noticeable because the routine is so much fun!! I rarely say that about exercising but I have found the Firm series to be truly fun and I look forward to doing them. Get this one for sure! For those days when you only have 40 minutes to work out (the routine is 30 min. I am giving time to dress, undress..etc.) And, it is REALLY TRUE what they claim in their ads, You WILL See a noticeable difference in 10 workouts --- after 10 workouts, my family and friends were commenting about my appearance -- especially my butt and legs -- and I didn't think I could see any difference!! Anyway, get this one, you won't be disappointed!! ... Read more

Description

Featuring Master Instructor Charles Glass ... Read more

Reviews (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Great for beginners though. Not to tough.

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

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

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

Kitka ... Read more