The Firm: Volume 1: Body Sculpting Basics

Susan Harris
Year Released: 1986

Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights)


I am just going to add my impressions on this workout since it has already been broken down by others.

This is one of the BEST videos of all time. I am a fan of most Firm workouts, old and new, and AWT works really well for me both for weight loss and muscle sculpting. The 60 minute workout has a 30 minute standing portion (upper, lower, combined upper/lower strength, and aerobics that can be easily applied to the rebounder) and a 30 minute infamous floor work section.

The music is great, the production quality is high, and even 25 years later I feel that the exercises are safe and effective. I don’t think one could say that about the many 80s workouts. The set is obviously dated, colorful leotards, very large class (think 30 background exercisers), in the classic Firm mansion set. I understand it was a very expensive item it’s day, but now one can get the VHS dirt cheap and even the DVD is around $25 retail. I have the VHS so cannot speak to the chaptering or menu options on the DVD.

At any rate, I wanted to emphasize that this was the masterpiece of Anna Benson and a kickoff to a wonderful career. Susan is brilliant as well and it’s truly a shame that she didn’t lead more than just volumes 1 and 4. Like any Firm video, this can be modified up or down to suit your needs, but I would classify it as high intermediate if you follow Susan’s poundage. With heavy weights and ankle weights, I can make this into a low advanced workout for myself. Grade A++ (perfection)!

Instructor Comments:
Susan Harris is a great instructor, mirror cues, and gives excellent form pointers. Some people have said that she is “breathy” or “sexy” but I never found that to be so. I liked that she loses her breath and works up a sweat right there with you.

Emily B.

03/11/2011