The Firm: Volume 1: Body Sculpting Basics

Susan Harris
Year Released: 1986

Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights)


This is the workout that started it all and over ten years later, it still delivers! Although I don't do it as much as I would like, I still find Vol 1 incredible tough and challenging. In my opinion, it belongs in the hall of fame!

Since most of the workout has already been described in detail in other reviews, I will just add a few of my perceptions. First, I am not sure why, but I find myself working very hard throughout the majority of this workout--in fact, I believe my heart rate stays higher than during almost every other Firm tape. The cardio segment consists primarily of running in place, jacks, and kicks. I usually modify this part of the workout--which is the--one area I really feels shows its age by jumping rope during the first running segment. The other modification I make is during the lunge and upper body segments. I simply slow the moves down because if I don't, it is difficult for me to maintain proper form.

The real strength of this workout is the lower body work. If you do not like floorwork, this tape is not for you! This section is completely done on the floor. It is killer and my muscles scream for relief by the time I'm finished (that is even without ankle weights). This section is about 26 minuges long and part of it can be found in the Firm Parts: Floor Legs. It is followed by pec flies, ab work, and a nice stretch.

Many people have commented that this tape has a high "cheese" factor and I admit I usually giggle whenever I hear the "flatulating tuba" but the last two times I've done the workout, I was concentrating and working so hard, I didn't even notice.

I would like to place one caveat on what I've said during this review. If you are new to weight training, this might not be a great choice--the new videos have more form tips and demonstrate better form. For all other video exercises, this tape delivers!!!! Its a keeper!

Instructor Comments:
Susan is terrific and is much the Firm as the Benson sisters. I wish she would make another video!!

Kathy Martinez

07/23/1998