First I want to say, this is a workout like no other I have tried. Although you could classify it as floor aerobics, it's really not. This is a low impact dance workout. It is a blend of african, latin, and modern dance. The music is techno world beat, very earthy and rhythmic. This workout is amazing! The freedom of self expression and free flowing dance makes this more than an aerobic workout; it's an art form. You feel so free while working out.

Although no formal dance training is required, Chantal runs through all the steps that will be performed during the workout. The tutorial session at the beginning is very thorough, and you can run through it a few times before going to the actual workout. She is so sweet and calm while explaining, and a little shy acting while remaining professional. I think the word to explain it is humble. Love that! The workout is broken into two parts: the Deep Sweat, which is 45 minutes, and the 30 minute Quick Sweat workout. The Quick Sweat is just a quicker version of the Deep Sweat though; they are not two completely different workouts.

The setting is simple: hardwood floors, willowy dancers, and a semi dark set. Not too dark, kind of like jazzy dark. Cool.

During the routine, Chantal walks you through the dance steps, even though everyone does a little something different with their arm movements. In between sequences, you do about a minute of your own thing, which is wonderful and different for me. If you are a little inhibited, this workout easily helps you transition beyond that. There is instruction, but you also get a little free flowing dance on your own.

I broke a light sweat with this routine and my heart rate got in the lower 50-60% range, I think. I feel the way I do after I've done a good walk with some hills. This is great to use on a day that you want a good workout, but not too much. If one exaggerates the arm movements and "takes flight" at the right parts, you can get a decent sweat with this workout. You can burn some calories without feeling like you had to go "all out".

At the end of the workout, there is a yoga type stretch at the end that is really relaxing.

This workout is great for those who want to feel free and sensual. For a preview visit here:
http://www.soundstrue.com/pages/search.p
hp?search=soul+sweat&format=all&page=1

PROS: This routine is wonderful and different. I like that she has a tutorial but still walks you through the routine. I appreciate the free flowing dance segments in the middle of each segment. I get some instruction throughout, yet I am also free to do my own thing. Nicely set up. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the music. Chantal is very encouraging and likeable. She does speak a little about the spirits all around you, but it's not intimidating or overly religious. More meditative than intrusive.

CONS: not long enough. I wish the routine were an hour. Also, the Deep Sweat and Quick Sweat routines should be two different routines, not just a quicker version of the same one. I would also like for Chantal to mirror cue. She does a poor job of that.

Overall Rating: A

Instructor Comments:
Chantal is awesome. I am still trying to find a dance DVD that I love as much as this that has all the right combos - dance, set, music, free form expression. NIA is a little too much freeform, even though this is supposed to be based a bit on that.

bubbles76