The Firm: Prime Power - Fat Burning

Stacey Milner-Collins
Year Released: 1996

Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights)


I received the tape today, so bear in mind this is a first-time impression.

The jungle set and animal prints are different and fresh, considering current fashion trends, but with time will grow as dated as the avocado green and harvest gold kitchens circa 1971.

The music is O.K. I rather liked the vocals in the aerobic section. I did not have a problem with the music, unlike some other reviewers. But it's not as good as the music on Strong Heart and Strong Body tapes.

The dowel is worthless. I much prefer weights. The lower body training is a waste of time for the seasoned Firm Believer. I guess since these are "Prime Power" tapes, they are preparing me (a middle-aged Baby Boomer) for the cane and senesence....They are also trying to ward off my need for Depends with all those internal contractions--they get carried away with those things. The aerobic section is not very aerobic, even for beginners. One problem I have always had with the FIRM is that their aerobics just are not aerobic enough for me, albeit their weight sections more than compensate.

Summary:

This tape is good for beginning exercisers, people who are resuming exercise after an illness or surgery, or for those who want a easier tape on days they don't feel like working out intensely.

The tape really also emphasizes internal pelvic contractions and upper body work at the expense of adequate aerobics and lower body toning.

Instructor Comments:
Nothing spectacular, nothing terrible. Could be placed in a generic box with "Video Instructor" written on it. In other words, she's there, that's it. I prefer Susan Harris, Tracie Long, Heidi Tanner, or Pam Cauthen. But she is better than Janet Jones-Gretsky and Sandahl Bergman....those instructors on the Classic Videos. Professional performers in exercise videos aren't for me.

Amy Steppe

09/13/1997