Time Saver: Lift Weights to Lose Weight

Kathy Smith
Year Released: 1998

Categories: Total Body Workouts


When I first bought this video several years ago, I thought I would only use the upper body portion, as had given up hope on my lower body long ago. However, I've since come to appreciate the value of lower body work, and I've held on to this tape, which is probably the oldest in my current collection.

This video contains a 20-minute upper boyd workout, 20-minute lower body workout, and 7 minute bonus abs section. Kathy moves fairly quickly between the exercises, so it would be helpful to view the entire tape prior to your first workout to become familiarized with it. Also, her cuing is sometimes a little off--she seems to lose track of repetitions--but once you've done the tape a few times, it's easier to follow along.

Kathy uses a "two-track" system, which gives you the option of using either heavy weights, less repetitions or light weights, more repetitions. I usually alternate, and both ways are tough! The upper body portion covers traditional exercises for back, biceps, triceps, and shoulders (in that order). The lower body section utilizes mostly standing moves to work inner and outer thighs and buttocks; it ends with just a few minutes of floor exercises performed on your back. The abs section contains a nice, targeted abs workout with a few unique moves thrown in; plus, it includes several back exercises for additional strength and balance.

Overall, I think this is an excellent workout which would be appropriate for anyone from advanced beginners to more advanced exercisers in need of a quick workout. The combination of short length, varied exercises, and adept instructor is bound to help increase your motivation level. This video has managed to remain a part of my regular rotation for over two years now, and I don't plan to part with it anytime soon.

Instructor Comments:
Some other reviewers have commented that Kathy's style in this video is annoying, with lots of "hooting and hollering." I was prepared to be bothered by this as well, as I don't like overly peppy instructors such as Denise Austin. Although Kathy's frequent woo-hoos did sound a bit silly at times, I found it easy enough to ignore. Also, I appreciated the fact that only Kathy wore a mike, so there is no distracting background noise from her 10 participants.

Beth C (aka toaster)

02/02/2004