BFP is a fun workout, but it helps if you like plies, since you do a lot of them here. This is a mix of standing cardio moves with an emphasis on using core stability and control, as Ellen describes the moves. After several minutes, you pick up dumbbells and use them for upper body moves as you continue the cardio step patterns. After several cycles of different patterns, you hit the floor for some pilates mat work and then do a stretch. The music is fun, and kept me going, though if I had to describe it now, I couldn't. Although I enjoy this workout, it is somewhat repetitive. If this were a video I did regularly, more than once a week, I think I would get tired of it really, really quickly. But since I do it no more than twice a week, it is still fun to me. Ellen is a really solid instructor. I'd like to see her put together a dance cardio class with a ballet flair, similar to what Jessica Sherwood attempted in the dance segment of Ballet Boot Camp. Ellen explains things very well, and seems so at home in front of the camera. I also like this tape because the people all seem unique. It seems many of the tapes I've seen lately have the cast wearing the same clothes, the same haircolor and cut, the same boobs... there is a nice mix of body types here, and, just as if you were going to a studio, a mix of outfits as well. Unlike Ellen's earlier Fat Burning Pilates, where most of the outfits seemed to be staying on with glue and required a wax, there's no "train wreck" costumes here. Ordinarily, I don't notice the outfits much, but I was expecting the worst after FBP. On the whole, this is a fun workout that I like to pull out once a week or so. it isn't the most challenging workout for me, but I do feel like I get a good sweat in and my muscles do feel pleasantly fatigued. And somedays, a fun sweat is just what I need.

Instructor Comments:
Ellen is perky without being annoying. She cues well, shows good form and has a nice movement quality. I find her easy to follow and pleasant to work out with.

linda