Tae Bo (Original 4 workout set)

Billy Blanks
Year Released: 1998

Categories: Boxing/Kickboxing/Martial Arts


I have been an Aerobic instructor for nearly 5 years and last weekend I became "certified" to teach kickboxing. I visited Billy's gym in Sherman Oaks in February to confirm my thoughts about the workout. The videos are less intense than the live workout. He really scaled it down to bring it to the masses. In the studio, the cardio workout is 45-50 minutes.

As for the videos, I alternate the Basic and the Advanced. I still use the Basic to improve my form. The slow speed allows me to concentrate on my punches and kicks.

The advanced tape is becoming manageable. I've added additional reps to even out Billy's cueing. Here's the AMAZING part: I own at least 40 videos and I get bored easily - - I am not bored with TaeBo. I have been doing this workout since the beginning of Nov. I own Stephanie Steele and Lisa Gaylord's tape. I have done them 2-3 since owning TaeBo.

I love the way my abs have responded to Billy's kickboxing workout. I have suspended my tummy tuck savings plan. Step will never do this for you. I have dropped a size without changing my eating habits. I feel great.

As others have mentioned, there are problems with his cueing and counting. Those problems are not as evident in a live class. I'm sure that future videos will be smoother. Just as The Firm and CIA improved with time.

Instructor Comments:
Billy is a fun and inspiring instructor. I enjoy his comments and they keep me going during the advanced tape. He does screw up the reps, but an earlier review suggested switching leads each time you do the tape and that reduced my annoyance.

Lorraine Stokes

03/01/1999