Reebok's "Guru of Aerobics" fails miserably in this dismal video. I recommend that EVERYONE go out and buy this tape. Beginners through advanced level need to view this tape. It's inexpensive and teaches an excellent lesson. How to execute step aerobics in a dangerous and ineffective manner. It is well worth the less than ten dollars I spent to learn how NOT do step aerobics.

This fiasco of a tape, transports you into an MTV-type setting replete with metaphysical undertones and "inspirational" quotes. The set is actually the strong point of this video. And I totally agree that the mind is a powerful tool in achieving fitness goals. However, in the name of subliminal messaging, the developers of this routine have let safety and form slip into the abyss. To me, these considerations are paramount--especially for those not trained in exercise physiology.

There is no basic instruction in how to execute moves. Instead Kolber begins flinging herself wildly in moves that take credibility from the Reebok name.

The person who is especially annoying on this tape is the female exerciser, Kasey. She fancies she is some type of wonderful step dancer and adds dangerous moves to even the most basic of steps. Her arms and shoulders flail spastically--her back arches in a manner reminiscent of Linda Blair in the "Exorcist." Sorry Kasey, while your moves are newsy and cute, you fail miserably as an step aerobics instructor--if you were in my class, I would definitely correct your form.

The male participant is OK, but his form is still not the best. But to his credit, he does move in a more controlled fashion than his female counterparts.

Ms. Kolber's occasional nose-scrunching grimaces and hoarse voice are also annoying to me. At the end of the tape during the cool-down session, she makes an extra move with her neck to the music during the neck rolls that could be dangerous and looks--well, goofy. I thought she was having a seizure.

The production quality is fair. The music is nice; however, the sound quality is bad. Reebok again detracts from its name with this production. But hey, it was less than $10, right? Wrong. For a few dollars more, I can get wonderfully produced tapes like the FIRM or FIRM parts.

Grade for this Tape: D- (and I'm being generous here) I actually do this tape when I need a couple of laughs and feel haughty enough to pretend I am correcting Kolber and her comrades.

Still, it's a must see! View it and weep! And remember, if Reebok will put its name on a tape of this caliber, imagine how the shoes are built!

Amy Steppe