The Firm: Prime Power - Fat Burning

Stacey Milner-Collins
Year Released: 1996

Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights)


Melissa F. gave a complete description of this video. I'll just add my comments. I've been doing advanced step videos and FIRM videos for about a year. I did Prime Power Fat Burning this morning for the first time and I just don't know what to think. I didn't break a sweat, didn't really get my heart rate up, and didn't feel like I had worked very hard afterward.
I use The FIRM strictly for strength training since I don't feel the cardio sections are really long enough or challenging enough for me. I do think the cardio sections in this video are little more interesting than some other FIRM videos, though.
I was excited that the warm-up had a good aerobic song I've heard before, but then the Stars and Stripes or whatever it was really disappointed me. Also, doing inner thigh work to waltz music seems a little bizarre, and actually drowned out the instructor at times.
The upper body work was pretty good, but the lower body sections weren't nearly challenging nor long enough for me. I suppose that's why we need to spend more money to get the Lower Body video. Next time I'll definitely use ankle weights for the floor work. The broom handle I used instead of the dowel worked well but, again, these sections weren't very tough or long enough. Also, using a towel behind the head to pull yourself up for crunches seems to defeat the purpose. And the dowel certainly isn't necessary while sitting on a stool for the final stretch!

From my personal standpoint, this video would be good for 1) beginners, 2) older (define that as you will) exercisers, 3) those of us who want to 'stay' in shape and 4) days when you don't have the energy for a tougher workout.
Don't get me wrong. It's a good video - even with the hokey jungle set. It just doesn't totally work toward my current fitness goals.

Joni O

04/30/1997