Product: Kettlebell Bombshell with Lisa Balash (Kettle Bell Workout) (2011)
Rating: 3.0
Better than expected
Going by previews and negative reviews I expected to not like this DVD and the instructor much, but being the exercise DVD addict that I am, I had to try it for myself. I have tried and own many Kbell workout DVDs and in my opinion there is nothing better than Art Of Strength. However, once I got started with this one, I was surprised how much I liked Lisa's personality. She is very calm and cues well. I used a 20 lb Kbell but could have gone heavier (I'm female) because of the low rep count which is supposedly targeted towards beginners.So, here is the reason I gave it only 3 stars: there is no warmup, cool down or stretch, the on-screen instructions show how many reps and length of rest for beginner, intermed, and advanced, but Lisa only demonstrates the beginner count. So, in a circuit of several exercises the rep count is 5, one after the other, when it should be 10 for adavanced, but you can't follow along and do 10 reps. There should have been a separate chapter for the advanced workout. On the other hand, a true beginner might be overwhelmed because the pace is quick and there is a variety of exercises. I also fast-forwarded through the lengthy rest periods.What I did like: Using a very heavy Kbell is doable and provides quite a challenge. (I felt it in my shoulders and abs). The cardio sections get your heart rate up effectively with burpees, mountain climbers, etc. even though it's short. Lisa's physique motivated me and I liked her personality. She has good form. The workouts (doing all 3 chapters) can be done in a short amount of time especially if you skip through the breaks so as an add-on this is not bad at all. I did feel good after the workout.There is mentioning of her next DVD which is supposed to be more advanced and I'm curious how it will be. I hope she reads reviews to make the next one better.