Firm Cardio: Maximum Cardio [VHS]
This high-energy workout features an instructor who is gorgeous, lean, and very clear in her cuing and explanations, surrounded by other gorgeous, lean women and one fit man. You need quite a lot of equipment for this one: an 8- to 10-inch step for cardio, a 12- to 14-inch step for muscle, dumbbells, a barbell, and an optional weighted ball. The workout gets started quickly with a rhythmic warm-up using weighted balls. Then the pace escalates with both high- and low-impact aerobics inspired by sports (run, squat) and dance. Next comes an aerobic step segment, then a longer aerobic segment both on and off the step while holding light weights. Then you put the step away and do a long set of high-low dance aerobics and sports moves. No, you're not done yet--next, pick up light weights again and continue moving, then jog with the weighted ball, then exchange the weights for a high step to put the finishing touches on your legs. Next, grab the barbell for some muscle work. And of course no workout would be complete without an abdominal segment and stretch. All of these activities take place in 46 minutes, making the workout overall extremely varied, high-powered, and a real calorie burner. This is recommended for intermediate to advanced exercisers who like mopping sweat off their brows.--Joan Price