Body Fusion

Cathe Friedrich
Year Released: 2004

Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights) , Step Aerobics , Total Body Workouts


This is a basic step tape with very basic choreography - the most complicated step is "knees around the world." The warmup introduces the steps used, such as basic, V-step, alternating knees, repeaters, and turn steps. Its easy choreography reminds me of the first Step Reebok tape with Gin Miller. Step klutzes (like me) will appreciate the easy moves.

After the warmup, there are two aerobic sections, each with basic step patterns blended into a longer combination. One reason the workout is basic/beginner is that no arm movements are taught with the leg patterns; the whole workout is also fully low-impact.
Anyone beyond a basic beginner will want to up the intensity in this workout: you could add arm movements, increase step height (I use 8" for this workout, the only Cathe workout I do at that height), and/or add impact to the moves. For example, the "knees around the world" could be done with a lift on each knee up; L-steps could also be done with a leap up and lift on the knee-up.

A short cooldown and stretch completes the workout. I found the stretch to be inadequate - for a 20-minute step tape, there is only one short hamstring stretch and no specific stretch for the calves or quads.

This tape is a good add-on cardio on days you want an easy, low-impact, short aerobic workout.




Instructor Comments:
Cathe is her usual upbeat self and displays excellent form. Her cueing could be a little clearer for beginners - explaining new moves rather than just demonstrating them.

Allison

09/02/2004