This is an easy-to-follow beginner's tape, which consists of three parts:

20 minutes of floor aerobics; a total body stretch (just under 20 minutes); and a 15-minute guided relaxation.

The aerobics are not complicated, and can be performed at low or high impact (the class is divided into two halves). This is fairly short, and once you get to intermediate level it becomes quite easy. I do it if I've had to take a break due to illness, and sometimes I make a longer workout by doing 20 minutes on my stairclimber first; otherwise I consider it an extended warming-up for a "stretching day". The music has a Caribbean flavour to it, which sort of enhances the stress reduction, carefree aspect of the tape.

The stretch section is my favourite part of this tape; in fact, at present it's my favourite stretching routine. Once you've learned the stretches, you can follow Jane's voice and keep your eyes closed for most of the time. She starts with two standing stretches and the rest are done on the floor. She gives clear instructions on form, and where you should feel the stretch. There are modifications for less flexible participants, allowing you to progress at your own pace. The quiet piano music in the background and Jane Fonda's soothing voice make me feel very relaxed.

The tape ends with a guided relaxation. This is also warmly recommended. Jane is now in a room with just one other person. You contract and release all your muscle groups one by one until you are relaxed and calm. It may take some practice to achieve this, but it's well worth it.

Because of the excellent stretching and relaxation sections, I think that this tape would be a good choice for anyone - not just beginners. If you want more intense aerobics, just do another tape first.

Glynis van Uden