(Warmup 8 min; Step 40 min; Cooldown/Abs 12 min; Warmup 8 min; Step/Weight Intervals 40 min; Funk Cooldown 12 min)

Here's one for the guys, or guy-watchers: two one-hour step workouts, each taught by a male instructor. The first is one long combo taught in two parts by pleasant, low-key Kirk Moore. Mostly it's very basic and non-dancy, though the second half is intensified by high-impact moves such as "power jogs" and "footballs", making the final run-through quite a killer. A couple of complaints: the cooldown lasts about 10 seconds, and Kirk gets his lefts and rights mixed up occasionally. There is also a reverse turn step which is not favored by the Reebok camp (Kirk's a Nike acolyte). A brief ab workout follows.

The second hour consists of step/weight intervals taught by Robert Sherman. He's somewhat loud and talky (reminds me of "Body by Jake") but he's a decent instructor; he doesn't rush through the weights like many instructors, and even shows how to safely pick up and put down the weights. This particular workout is more intermediate than advanced; the step intervals are somewhat simple and slower than I'm used to. The strength exercises focus more on the lower body than upper, and one exerciser uses tubing instead of dumbbells.

In this female's opinion, men might like this tape; the steps are basic and uncomplicated, and the long length of each workout will build both endurance and coordination.

Sue B

11/30/-0001