This is the only exercise video I own. (I did
own Crunch Fat Blaster briefly, but gave it away after
doing, or rather watching, it once.) The differences
between that style of video (very complicated, fast
choreography, little instruction on form from instructor)
and Winning Workout highlight what I love about WW. WW
has a standard warm up, 30 minutes of aerobics, 25
minutes of toning with barbells, and a stretching cool
down. The weight lifting section is offered in 3 distinct
beginning, intermediate, and advanced versions, meant to
be used sequentially, moving up a segment after 4 weeks
on the previous.
This is a 1987 video, so it has a dated look to it
compared to newer, flashier videos. I don't think this
detracts in anyway from the value of the tape. The
aerobics can be strenuous (after 6 months with the tape I
now wear 2 lb. leg weights throughout and "power
up" the appropiate steps). The routine is easy to
learn, even for a clutz like me- plenty of repetition and
"add on" moves -- but is still interesting
enough to keep me going.
The toning section is challenging, and keeps your
heart rate up even thought the aerobics are over. Good
information about muscle function and proper form, a good
variety of major muscle groups (although weak on shoulder
and back). The three segments of increasing difficulty
provide a realistic, goal-oriented approach to
strengthening and shaping muscles- I've seen really great
results.
I have done this video 3 - 4 times a week for 6
months. It's real strengths are the fabulous Kathy Smith,
and the well-rounded aerobic and strength training
workout it offers.
Instructor comments:
This was the first aerobics video I ever saw- and
probably the reason I've stuck to a 5-day-a-week regime.
I find Kathy Smith interesting and inspiring even the
180th + time I've played the tape.
Katherine
Darke
I had this video about 15 years ago, and got rid of it to clean out my library. Recently I had a yearning to find it and try it again. I'm glad I did. The aerobics are solidly intermediate and quite fun and varied, and at 30 minutes,its just long enough to keep my attention. The weight work is a little bit short, and doesnt work the glutes or hamstrings enough for my taste, but I usually add on another workout after anyway. Overall I'd give this a B.
Instructor comments:
Not really my favorite instructor, but she is quite likeable in this for a change.
Kristi
2/09/05