The Method: All in One Workout
Jennifer Kries, Lakey Evans, Alexandra MckechnieYear Released: 1997
Categories: Circuit Training (cardio and weights) , Pilates/Core Strength
The Method All-In-One is the only one of the series I own. It begins with a long warm up section consisting of deep stretches and a "warm up" aerobics section at the very end. Although it is long, it is beneficial in lengthening and warming up the muscles. I wouldn't call it challenging, but hey, it's only a warm up.
Next is Alex with aerobics and weight training intervals. The aerobics intervals are fairly short, so I don't get bored easily. The exercisers demonstrate them with great grace, somewhat differently than most traditional aerobics videos. Trying to mimic their smooth moves, I've found it requires a lot of muscle control. So while I would definetly not call the intensity "high", between the aerobics and weights, I work up a pretty good sweat without feeling like I'm pounding my joints. There are four segments each of aerobics and weights. Alex suggests using 3 - 5 pounds weights. I started with 3-lb and am now up to 4. I think you could even go higher than that. The weight segments are very effective in working muscles in unique ways (such as bicep curls with the arms extended straight out, working against gravity as well). You mostly work at reps of 8 - 16. I can already see a little definition in my arms. Again, the segments are short, preventing boredom.
The last section is basically ab work with Jennifer. This section is amazing at lengthening and strengthening abs. The teaser, the most challenging move, is last in the series and I was amazed when I first watched Jennifer climb up her extending legs to the "advanced" position. Well, after 3 weeks of doing the video, I can do it too! My abs are a lot stronger due to this video. Again though, the focus is on form and control. The reps are low and slow.
Overall, the video is fairly entertaining, and unique, and as an intermediate exerciser who is not crazy about high-impact, I enjoy this video a lot.
Instructor Comments:
All instructors are inviting, but fairly no\nonsense. No whooping going on here. Alex misses a few cues in the aerobics portion and keeps saying "last time" for the last 6 times (!!), but otherwise is adequate and demonstrates the aerobics and weight segments well. My favorite instructor was Jennifer. Her form is impeccable and she is encouraging and intelligent-sounding. They all have toned muscular and fit bodies, which is always encouraging when doing a video.