I just did Michael Olajide's Killer Abs & Back workout this AM and it was terrific - an effective intermediate-level core workout, half of it done standing.

I've seen comments on this workout but don't recall any reviews, so here's mine.

The breakdown:
4min "stim stretch" warm-up
5.5min core sculpting (standing torso moves such as oblique twists using light dumbbells, I used my weighted gloves)
9min boxing moves - focusing on using core to push the punch
5.5min ropejumping
2min cool-down
14min abs/floorwork
4min stretch

I really enjoyed this workout and can see a place for it in my routine. The set is a well-lit studio, hardwood floors, neutral color walls. Two background exercisers. Michael cues the moves, does about 2/3 of the reps and walks over to each girl to demonstrate form.

The girl on the right demonstrates better form during the standing workout, the girl on the left definitely has wonderful endurance and form in the floorwork section. Both are beautiful and cut.

The music is a blend of Dynamix classic workout tunes, rock-instrumental and the volume is close to *very* loud. It had a good beat, which is important in a workout that includes ropejumping.

The standing moves are fun, includes tightly controlled torso twists, I really felt my obliques working. I expect them to be sore tomorrow!

The boxing is great because he works on form and then picks up the pace. His form pointers are excellent - when throwing a punch he tells you to imagine you have no arm, only your hands attached to your shoulders and how you'd need to really push your shoulder forward to throw that punch.

The ropejumping can be done without the rope for good intensity. I did these moves on my Lateral Thigh Trainer. Michael has fun here with the "forgotten count" and makes you go longer. Corny but effective.

The floorwork is a wide variety of crunches, obliques, and lower body "ceiling stamps" with your feet in the air - as well as some tough newer moves that I found very challenging - v-sits, v-ups, etc. All in all very tough, I took a few breaks.

I did this workout after a tough upper body day (moving 60 boxes full of books!) where I didn't have the energy to lift a barbell but I wanted an intense workout with enough cardio to blow off some steam.

I think it's a great little workout, short enough to do on days when I'm short on time and tough work for the core without the "undoable-ness" of Core Foundations/TLP.

I got it from DeepDiscountDVD.com, it was only $14.83 and they have free S&H.

Instructor Comments:
Michael is down-to-earth, cues well, and focuses on form. He's good-natured and gets a few extra reps out of you by "forgetting where he was in the count".

He's an accomplished boxer in great shape, demonstrates terrific form and gives excellent form pointers.

I'd follow him just about anywhere :)

DawnP