No wonder G-Force has made so many tapes together - these guys have a lot of talent. Ultimate Cardio Workout was their very first effort, and it packs a lot into one tape. There are three separate cardio sections - a 32 minute step section, 33 minute hi/lo, and 30 minute funk, with an 8 minute warmup and short cooldown. Unlike their subsequent tapes, each "G" leads an entire segment - that is, Rob teaches the step, Patrick leads hi/lo, and Darin does the funk, instead of trading off after each progression.

Overall, I really enjoy this tape. The choreography is complex - as you'd expect - but it is definitely well taught, well cued, and doable. Patrick in particular "tones down" his famously impossible choreography to something much more accessible to the average aerobicizer. And all three of them are friendly and seem to be having a great time together, which makes it seem a little more like I'm part of the workout party!

Some more of the good things about this tape - Rob's step choreography and his amazing jumping ability (he really catches some air!), though I don't think the tape really captures his sparkling personality. Also Patrick's deft hi/lo choreography and his gracefulness are very much in evidence. He is such a fun instructor!

I should note I never do the funk portion of this tape. The choreography looks like a lot of fun, and I'm sure it'd be terrific for those blessed with the "funk" gene. I can do dancy, but funk is where I find my limit. I should also note that the "costumes" that they wear for the funk segment - Orlando Heat basketball jerseys - are already starting to look a little dated.

But even without the funk segment, you still have a solid 60+ minutes of terrific step and hi/lo. This is definitely a tape worth owning.

Celia M.