This video is very low-impact, and the moves are slow and controlled. It's great for me now, because I had foot surgery a couple months ago and I'm not supposed to get up on my toes or make quick moves. But I used this video before my surgery and liked it. Beginners can work out without wrist weights, but intermediate and advanced exercisers will probably need the added resistance to increase their heart rate. With so many arm movements, you even get a little toning benefit (unless you've had oodles of weight training). The music is a gas. Some of the songs are twangy country dances, and one of the frequent moves is "chicken arms." I like those second only to the "monkey arms" in one of the later songs. "Chicken turns" are also silly and fun, as is "Drive a Big Truck." A running gag throughout the video is that a fellow accidentally came to the workout and added some funky, energetic moves as well as some "Squawk squawk" noises during the "chicken" moves. It's a diversion, but if you don't like "whooping," this video's definitely not for you. The best part of the workout is Jane's stretchout at the end. She's the best at making you feel totally loose and relaxed at the end of a workout. Too bad newer videos seem to skimp on this part of the workout. This is an "A" workout in my library.

Instructor Comments:
Jane's cuing is pretty good, though she forgets to alert you to a few changes. It's not a problem after you do the tape a few times, because you know the change is coming. She gives clear form pointers to avoid injury. I like her self-assured, relaxed attitude, as if she has nothing to prove (she started this video workout craze, so I guess it's her due). As usual, her figure is beautiful -- and unattainable for most of us "average" women. But it's fun to watch her move and pretend the TV screen's a mirror of what you're doing at home.

Lilly Anderson