This production is all class with a distinctly artful quality. It contains 2 modular workouts that can be done separately or back to back. (They complement each other). The first portion is done using her 3# body balls, which are optional (can also use dumbbells), but difficult to be without on some of the legwork where you must squeeze the ball between your calf and hamstring in the back of the knee. You could probably squeeze an ankle weight in just the same way. The setting is dark, and although I prefer a lighter set, this was sophisticated and pleasant, as well as, calming (unusually so for a toning portion). The moves are easy to follow and she has a unique take on some basics (both upper & lower body). The music is light but had a bit more punch to make you wanna move than what I usually associate with a light soundtrack. Now for the big BUT (no pun intended). The concept behind the video is to make fitness maintainable for busy lifestyles, and while perhaps it meets this goal, I found it so streamlined that it was not useful to me. It would, however, be a good beginner tape or light workout for travel. This first segment, with warm-up was 22 min. In the 2nd segment, she introduces a yoga-style routine which, not personally being familiar with yoga to have any comparison, I found to be excellent and difficult for the person without good balance. (As I discovered, that would be me!) There were some very good "streamlined" abs here and then she turns you over for some mild but effective back work. She also includes push-ups here and though she again uses the body balls, they are easier substitute in this portion. It was also wonderfully relaxing. After doing this section, I definitely decided to devote one workout day to flexibility training. While this is the most beautifully produced video I've seen (out of approx. 30), it's probably not going to meet the needs of the intermediate or advanced exerciser.

Instructor Comments:
Karen is awe-inspiring and exquisite to look at in this video. (I struggle with believing that she acheived this look just by using the light weights/high rep workouts she's known for - but I'm no expert). Her definition, fluid movements and grace truly inspired me to keep on keepin' on and also review my goals. Her good cueing and form pointers are both present here. She just comes across so sincere that I find her very pleasant as an instructor.

Jan B

01/23/1998