Khi Bae

Silk Manning
Year Released: 1999

Categories: Boxing/Kickboxing/Martial Arts


I am an advanced exerciser and kickboxer, so I found this workout to be way too easy. It consists of 2 videos (beginner and intermediate) which are of comparable difficulty (i.e. both pretty easy). Warm-up and cooldown excluded, the first video consists of 12 minutes of actual kickboxing, and the second video consists of 15 minutes. Because I work out 7 days a week for at least an hour and a half each day, this was unacceptable to me. So, I combine these tapes as a warm-up for my other longer, more difficult kickboxing tapes. I lift weights during his actual warm-ups and cooldowns to keep the intensity up and to not waste any time. The routines are definitely fun (more complicated in actual style than challenging cardiovascularily), but they may be difficult for beginners to follow the first time viewing. One thing that really bugs me about these tapes are the back-up exercisers. The blonde woman is honestly laughable. Her form is shockingly bad, and all that she really has going for her is her looks, which is why I'm sure she was in the tape to begin with. The other two (a man and a woman) don't add anything to the video, but they don't subtract either. As someone else said, these tapes were way too short. If they were longer, the workout could be outstanding. But Silk doesn't allow enough time for anything much to develop. If you're new to kickboxing (or if you like short workouts), then this is a really fun workout. Otherwise, if you're like me (advanced and wanting to be very challenged), don't waste your money.

Instructor Comments:
Silk is definitely a strong presence in the video. He appears to be a body-builder, and his kickboxing form is outstanding. He is clearly in phenomenal shape. In the first video (beginner basic), he was very clear, motivating, and easy to follow. In the second video, however, I found myself distracted by his choice of attire. Silk Manning is clearly well-endowed, and his shorts in the intermediate tape serve to accentuate this fact. I am sure that it was unintentional on his part, but I could not get over it. Even after doing the workout several times, I still find myself in shock. I will say no more about this (and I apologize for even mentioning it)--just be forewarned, as I was not.

Tarra Maria

11/24/1999