IMax 2

Cathe Friedrich
Year Released: 2002

Categories: Step Aerobics


This review refers to the DVD version of Imax2, an interval workout very similar to Interval Max. The workout includes 10 cycles of short step combos (each repeated 6 times), anaerobic intervals and recovery moves.

I've only done this video once but already ike it much more than Interval Max. I found IM to be very challenging (which I like) but hard to tolerate--it always seemed much longer than 40 minutes.


In Imax2, the step combos contain simple moves (most from her old videos) and cycle 6 times before heading into the anaerobic intervals. These are just as intense as in IM but much more bearable--instead of repeating the same plyo-jack or -lunge a bazillion times, Cathe has added more variety so you're not doing the same thing for the length of the interval. As in IM, the anaerobic moves include ploy-jacks, air jacks, squat jumps, power hops and other jello-leg moves. In one interval she does slow one-legged hops that started off easy and then became decidedly painful. I ended up on the other side of the room (but didn't fall over, unbelievably). My cats, however, left the room at that point and hid under the bed.


The first half of the workout is easier than the second half--the 9th anaerobic interval being a killer with power hops (which I've always hated). The final stretch is too short for me, but it usually is in most videos.

Overall, an A+. The workout was challenging but fun and her new music adds an excitement that I haven't felt in her previous videos. The DVD also has a pre-mixed version of the workout (with the intervals changed around) or you can mix & match your own workout if your DVD player has that capability. I could easily spend all day programming workouts with the entire Intensity series and I sincerely hope I don't neglect other important areas of my life (such as actually DOING the workouts).

Instructor Comments:
Cathe seems more lighthearted than usual in this series. Her cueing is excellent, as always, and her enthusiasm makes the workout just a little bit easier.

Paige

02/06/2003