I got the dvd version of this and it also has several segments of Gilad and a stretch. I've only done the title workouts at this point and I think it's a great workout to do when you don't have a lot of time or want to tack it on after or before something else, or if you're a beginner.

I like the countdown clocks...one on the left of the screen starts at :08 and counts down while another on the right counts down each exercise. Most are done for 45 seconds and then either repeat on the other side or go on to another exercise. There's a 'beep' when each set ends. If you can program your dvd it might be nice to repeat the workout maybe one or two more times for a longer workout.

I like the fact that he doens't really count..you do the exercise for the 45 sec period..sometimes he says 5 more but you really do what you can.

The abs moves are fairly basic exercises; crunches, reverse crunches, elbow to opposite knee, etc.

The arms one starts with good ole pushups! this is the only time I had trouble my first time through because when you hear the beep he immediately rolls to his back and does flies with the dumbbells. It's a fast move if you're not prepared with the dumbbells already there. I've gotten to where I put the dumbbells out to the side and do the pushups facing away from the tv so when I roll over I can see the screen. I use heavier weights (slightly)than I'd use for the Firm or LWTLW with Kathy Smith because it's only 8 minutes longa and each exercise is done for about 45 seconds. He also does overhead presses and some tricep and bicep and 'lawnmower' moves and delt moves. All are pretty effective exercises.

I don't think a very strong person will benefit much from these workouts, but I think the outside scenery is nice, the other 2 exercisers (a woman and a blonde guy who loves to look at his chest when he lifts the dumbbells!) just smile as he talks. he even uses cans for the dumbbells while the woman uses nothing and the other guy uses dumbbells. I think a total beginner can do this workout. I wish it would automatically play the entire disc though when you choose something earlier from the menu. At least on my dvd player it doesn't..I have to get the remote and choose the arms section after I've done abs if I want to do them.

Instructor Comments:
I like this instructor...he's motivating and easy to understand. Not really a lot of senseless chatter I don't think. At least not that I noticed.

Susanna (smith938)