First things first. I have the dvd version of this workout and cannot recommend the vhs version. I had to exchange the tape twice (poor Collage!) and gave up on the third tape. Either the sound faded in and out, the picture was lousy, or both. The dvd is quite an improvement. Okay, that is my warning.
I like circuit workouts because they appeal to my short attention span. I was glad to see Karen was releasing a new one. I was even happier to see that it would be more advanced than "Your Personal Best".
I do, however, miss the beautiful outdoor setting. No tape is going to look as good as that one, but this one does not even come close--red walls, a "barn door", some sort of dream catcher feather thingy on the wall: Dreadful.
I do like the music, most tunes are recognizable from Leaner Legs or Circuit Max. I realize a lot of people are not fond of instrumental music,however.
Oh yes, the workout. I like it. There are three cardio segments alternating with three strength segments. The cardio, which is step, is moderate choreography. It builds gradually, but by the second cardio segment you are really working up a sweat. These segments range from six and a half to nine and a half minutes.
The strength segments hit all muscle groups, but only on set of 12-16 reps are performed. The first segment uses heavier weights and includes sets for back, shoulders, biceps, legs and butt. She does some flyes on the step and push ups, but wisely saves these for last when your heart rate is lower.
The second strength segment uses lighter weights and focuses more on shoulders, triceps and biceps. She does one set where you work your triceps in one arm while working your bicep in the other. You rock back and forth as you do this. Supposedly you are using the same weight for each. I don't know about you, but I use a much heavier weight for biceps than I do triceps, so I use two different weights. All in all I do not like this set as there is just too much going on.
The final step segment features a couple of really fun moves: A charleston, kick, straddle, hop backwards move and a pendulum move.
The cooldown is a little too short considering the next section is abs on the step. I always cool down a little longer.
The abs are only about five minutes long, but they are tough! I have never had my abs get so sore. That is the way I like abs: short and effective.
The final leg section in performed lying prone on the step. I must confess, I hardly ever do more than a minute of this. I am not big on lying leg work.
The stretch is about four minutes. It is competent, nothing special.
The dvd also contains her ball workout. I have only done it once.

Roz