I really like this strength workout – it’s very tough. The whole tone of the workout is different than Cathe or the Firm though. It’s a no-nonsense, serious workout; the background exercisers rarely even smile (probably ‘cause they’re working so hard!). If you’re looking for high energy and whooping, this is not the video for you. In fact, I wouldn’t describe this video as fun, but it’s very effective. I have been sore the next day each time I’ve done it.

Another word that comes to mind to describe this video is “plain”. A very plain set, plain outfits, plain music (the music sounds like elevator music or music you’d hear being on hold on the phone). Something to be aware of is that Fran does not go with the beat of the music at all. Usually this would drive me crazy, but with the whole tone and “mellowness” of the workout, it works OK.

I really like the pace of this workout. The exercises themselves are slow enough for me to use fairly heavy weights, yet the transitions between them are quick (though thank goodness she gives water breaks just when I need them!). Fran says you will get cardio benefits because you never really stop, but I think the main thing you’ll get from this video is strength.

I agree with people who’ve said the warmup and cooldown are weird. I do a warmup from a different tape, and then use Fran’s warmup as my cooldown because she holds the stretches a nice long time.

Instructor Comments:
Fran is warm and does smile and use some humor to lighten the seriousness of this workout somewhat. Generally I like her, although every so often she talks about how difficult the next exercise is (“get ready for some killer legwork”). That doesn’t help me. But, that’s a minor thing. Also, she gives some form pointers but not a whole lot. I think that’s because her target audience with this video is people who are experienced using weights.

Mary Truscott