This is a great 45 minute developmental stretch workout. Except for the shins, Charlene covers all the major muscle groups pretty thoroughly. Before beginning the workout, Charlene advises you that for best results, you should use the tape after a workout, or at the very least, after a hot bath. During each section, a diagram of that particular muscle group is shown. Rather than just telling you to stretch, Charlene also tells you why that stretch is important, and which stretches are particularly important for certain people (ie. runners, cyclists, etc.)

Charlene pays close attention to safety and form, often reminding you not to arch your back or hunch your shoulders. She gives quite a few modifications for those who are pregnant or have difficulty lying on the floor. There are also variations for those who are more flexible and want a more intense stretch. Those who are less flexible can follow cast member A.J., and Charlene reminds you to do only what is comfortable for you. She includes quite a few stretches that I haven't seen in other workouts, like forearm stretches, and stretches for the postural muscles of the neck.

Those who enjoy athletic stretch and who like Karen Voight's Pure and Simple Stretch may want to give this one a try as well. Charlene does most of the same stretches, and then some. I think that the stretches are held a bit longer here, too. Granted, I don't think this video has the same relaxation factor as P & SS, since Charlene talks the entire time. However, what she has to say is very informative, and worth listening to at least once. After you are familiar with the routine, it would be simple enough to mute the TV and put on some relaxing music instead. If you don't have time for 45 minutes of stretching, you could easily break the routine into sections. Although this video is not available through Collage, you can order it through Charlene's web site.

Instructor Comments:
I really like Charlene. I know that some are put off by her chatty manner, but I find her to be very likeable, and although she talks a lot, what she is saying is generally pertinent to the workout and fitness in general. She comes across as very genuine and down to earth. I like the fact that her cast members wear mikes also, so you can hear what they have to say.

Mary K.