10 Pounds Down: Cardio Abs

Jessica Smith
Year Released: 2012

Categories: Abs/Core , Boxing/Kickboxing/Martial Arts , Total Body Workouts


This is a super-versatile dvd with 3 workouts. You get cardio, a total body circuit, and an abs/core workout. All of this has been well broken down by the previous reviewers so I will just add my impressions.

The Cardio Abs workout has been my go-to workout when I don't feel like working out. It is a quick workout but she works you. I would rate it high intermediate if you follow the advanced modifications and progress with Jessica. There is definitely a lot of jumping around in this workout. She starts with a lower intensity move and then takes it up a notch. You can always stick with (or return to) the base move. There are a lot of kickboxing moves. For me, it is a fun workout.

Total Body Abs Transformer is a great quick circuit workout. You do moves for every body part and there are cardio bursts. Again, she works you. I use 8 lb dumbbells and get a great sweaty workout. The exercises work more than one body part at once which drives up the cardio component for much of the workout. Jessica includes some challenging moves- pushups with mtn climbers between reps, one-armed burpees!!! Again, modifications are given.

Concentrated Abs features a variety of moves, standing and on the mat. I always find Jessica's core work to be challenging. She is really good at setting up the moves and teaching you how to engage your core rather than simply going through the motions. I have to say this is my least used of the workouts since I rarely spend half an hour on isolated core work. But for exercisers than want or need to do core-focused workouts, this one is good.

If I am short on time but want a good workout, or I don't feel like working out, I will often use Cardio Abs. They way I most often use this dvd is to do the cardio followed by the circuit. It is a great workout. If I am inclined I will do the whole dvd (all 3 routines), but the first two is usually good enough for me.

I have recommended this dvd to others. It is very versatile and you get a lot of content.

Instructor Comments:
Jessica is a fantastic instructor. She is such a natural in front of the camera, so personable, so likable. She explains things clearly, she is encouraging; she is fun to work out with and seems so genuinely nice. She is one of my favorite instructors. I adore her.

Melissa P

08/15/2013