Am/Pm Callanetics [VHS]
Callan Pinckney's Callanetics--a program of nonimpact, deep-muscle exercises--has been popular for decades. In this workout,AM/PM Callanetics, Pinckney presents two 20-minute workouts designed for busy people: an AM Class and a PM Class. "You'll get energized in the morning, completely relaxed in the evening, and of course a great body 24 hours a day," Pinckney promises. She is assisted by a small group of people of varying ages and flexibility levels. The AM Class presents some fairly traditional stretches and other exercises that use a balletbarre(you may substitute a piece of furniture). Some of these are very difficult toning exercises because they work the small muscles (of the hip and outer thigh, for example), and most of the movements are either isometric or little pulses. Most exercise professionals would say that working large muscles through a fuller range of motion is a better use of your time, but Callanetics has always had its followers who claim dramatic results. The PM Class, which she calls "meditation in motion," is quite similar to the morning workout, with more emphasis on stretching. If you're a Callanetics fan, here's a way to divide your workout into two short, manageable parts.--Joan Price