Jane teaches both classes, each of which strengthen
different muscle groups with free weights and exercises
such as lunges and squats. I like this video best of the
three in the "trilogy". I have enjoyed weight
training for years, and her Toning and Shaping video
(from the late 1980s) is a long-time favorite of mine.
When I don't have the full 45 minutes for that video, the
25-minute class in this new video is a good change of
pace, and the movements are very effective.
Janice Molina
I enjoyed this video and found it to be effective.
Jane worked a good variety of muscle groups. My only
comment is that I felt the abs portion could have been a
bit longer. This is especially good for those who are
beginner/intermediate level. Advanced may want to add an
extra set, since Jane only does 2 sets of 12.
Kathy Lapinski
Jane seems a little more "mellower" in this
tape. I have noticed this in her last few tapes. Her
cueing is as good as ever.
This video is divided into
two 25 minute classes. The toning style is similiar to
"The Firm"- you move quickly from one exercise
to the next without a rest period. I would recommend
someone using lighter weights for this video than they
would if they did the typical 10-12 rep set followed by a
30-60 second rest period. Personally, I enjoy this tape-I
was able to follow it fairly well on the first try. The
exercises are traditional weight training moves, and the
two classes offer more variety in moves. It is also a
little different in that Jane is alone-so if you do not
care for some of her other tapes this might be one to
try.
Susan Daiber
The tape starts with a short introduction about the benefits of weight training.
Jane Fonda is alone in the two workouts, each of which has its own warming-up and cooldown. The idea is to alternate the two, doing both twice a week. (I've been using them when I don't have much time to spend working out.)
You move through the exercises quickly. When I first did this tape I'd been using weights twice a week for just seven weeks, and I found it a bit hard to keep up. If I didn't feel I was in the correct position at the start of each exercise, I just paused the tape. I like these workouts - they are concise and to the point. Although they're short (25 mins), I feel like I've worked hard and haven't been wasting my time.
Instructor comments: As usual Jane's instruction is clear, and she gives regular reminders to check your posture. She often also shows what you should NOT do. She is friendly and cheerful without sounding phony.
Glynis van Uden
13 July 1998