Body Tech

Kari Anderson
Year Released: 1999

Categories: Step Aerobics , Total Body Workouts


Wendy said this was like a sequel to "Fitness Formula" and I agree, but I would add that this tape is a lot more fun. The choreography in FF is a lot more basic and if I remember correctly the choreography is never put together at the end. The first time I did this tape I was concerned because the first combo is extrememly basic (just 2 L-steps, some basics and a repeater or lunge back) and I wondered if the whole routine was similar. It is not. The next 3 combos are more interesting and fun. I also liked the warm-up (it is more interesting than that first combo.) Some of the fun moves include ponying on top of the step, turn step into a scissors and a variation of the shuffle repeater that is very fun.

I like this tape a lot, but it will not get heavy use from me at this time. It has a shorter cardio section than I would like for regular use - including the warm-up it is only about 37 minutes. The strength section is very short and I probably won't be using it. I could see it being useful for someone who is looking to get both types of work done in under an hour though. It will get used on those days when I don't feel like working out. Yesterday was one of those days, and it filled my needs perfectly. Its length was just fine (it got me moving for over half an hour), and the choreography was interesting enough to keep it fun. If I used it a lot though, the choreography would get old.

This is a true inter/advanced tape. Kari is very good at showing different levels of the moves, so an intermediate could enjoy this tape if they are not ready to do all the highest levels. Done at the highest level most advanced exercisers can probably get their heartrate up, but may not get a super-intense workout.

I would highly recommend this tape to intermediates who are looking to branch out into tapes with more choreography but are nervous about doing so. Kari does an excellent job of layering the complexity and teaching the moves. She also even gives a little pep talk at the beginning about learning choreography.

I am happy to see Kari put out some new videos geared toward home exercisers and not just instructors like her Great Moves videos. I like seeing a group work out, and I really prefer when tapes have stretching at the end. I wish she would make some tapes with longer cardio sections however.

Instructor Comments:
I was very neutral in my feelings about Kari until recently. I am not sure why she has grown on me, but now I really enjoy working out with her tapes.

Lisa C

12/23/1999