Hardcore: High Step Challenge
Cathe FriedrichYear Released: 2005
Categories: Total Body Workouts
When this workout first came out, it wasn't my favorite. I found the cardio sections boring, and it felt a little haphazard. I was always reluctant to get rid of it, though, and would sometimes just skip the cardio sections for a strength circuit workout that wasn't too bad.
Over the past 5 years or so, my workout tastes have changed a bit, and I don't need organization and choreography as much as I used to. I appreciate Cathe's circuit workouts where she really mixes things up and you keep moving. Over the course of the workout, you do work the entire body, and I don't feel like any area was skimped on or overworked. It just isn't the typical, work the back, then work the chest, etc. Mixing it up makes it more interesting and fun to me.
Some of the cardio sections are more intense and high-impact than others, but most of them are fairly intense. So this workout can give you an interval effect, with your heart rate going down a little during the strength (except when I'm doing leg moves and pushups!) Overall, I find I get a good cardio effect from doing this workout. The pace and choice of exercises usually keeps my heart rate going.
One thing I really like about this workout is the music. Cathe has lately been using mostly instrumentals, especially with her strength and circuit workouts. This one has a lot of vocals, and is more fun and energetic. No, it's not music I would listen to on my own, but it is fun when working out.
Instructor Comments:
After many years, Cathe is still the instructor I reach for the most. She pushes me and encourages me to keep going even when I don't want to. I find her especially encouraging in this workout.