The Ballet Workout 2: Strength and Conditioning
Melissa LoweYear Released: 1998
Categories: Ballet/Barre
The video is broken down into 2 approximately 30 minute workouts starting with brief floor work, then barre work, then some center work. I like the 2nd workout more than the first but found it more difficult. Actually, both workouts were rather humbling and I am amazed that I used to be able to do these things fairly easily. The exercises require a lot of strength and flexibility. I think anybody who tries to do this tape without any ballet background will be frustrated. I definitely did not get all of the steps the first time through, and I do have ballet experience, but since I am pretty laid back about that it didn't bother me. It's not an aerobic workout so you don't have to worry about your heartrate if you have to stop and rewind a few times. Melissa frequently changes legs, or directions or whatever without telling you so you really have to watch what the class is doing which can be tricky if you have your head down during a stretch or something. All in all, I like the tape and will keep it, although I will probably only do it occasionally.
Instructor Comments:
Melissa Lowe is pleasant and no-nonsense. If you are expecting cueing like Cathe Frierich's, however, you will be disappointed.