This workout is an Aerobic Weight Training (AWT) video with in my opinion a strength (not cardio) emphasis. As other reviews mention I would not categorize this as a cardio workout, it is very strength oriented and even the cardio portions are somewhat strength/toning oriented. I think the “cardio” comes in from your heart rate being way up there from the intense and never-ending strength sets, alternating upper and lower body, even on the floor my heart was pumping from the long bridge set. This is a good compliment to Firm Strength with Pam Cauthen (as it was intended) but again I would consider them both to be strength workouts. I think Firm Cardio is quite a bit more difficult than Firm Strength (they are both a challenge for sure). They are both filmed in the library set.

I really like the music in this one; even for an Anna Benson production the music in this one is especially notable. Sort of has a jazz vibe to it which I really enjoyed, and thought was appropriate and motivating for the exercises. There were two or three aerobic intervals which were mainly step and strength oriented, for instance one segment had squats with one leg on the step alternating with an over the top move, a great bun burner. The strength segments were pretty intense: long leg press segment (16 reps, arm work, another 16 reps on the same leg), a very long lunge set, and another lunge/squat combination set that had really fun music. I used lighter poundage on the lunge/squat set because it was after the leg press and long lunge set. There was also a lighter intensity leg abduction set using ankle weights (think Better Body and Buns). There was also significant biceps work (curls with the barbell), triceps (triceps dips and French press), shoulder work (various lateral raises), one arm lat row (with the leg abduction set just like Firm BBB). Floor work included a LONG table set (hard), and an ab set using the tall box with some interesting combinations (less traditional, fun!). The final stretch was long and thorough, which was well needed.

I like to pull out Firm Cardio when I’m angry and really need to get out some aggression, this definitely one of the more challenging Firm classics. I always find it challenging and really feel like I accomplished something when I finish. High production values like all Firms, great music as I said, and Heidi was a great lead. Like any Firm workouts you can make it easier or harder depending on poundage. I used heavier poundage (30# barbell for the legs, mostly 12# dumbbells for the arm work) and consider this to be a low advanced workout. Overall grade A+!

Instructor Comments:
I REALLY like Heidi Tanner, and was really pleased to see her again in the older and newer Fitprime workouts. She is a great lead, enthusiastic and encouraging, cues well and gives great form pointers. She looks very built and healthy and just looks like a happy person – she’s always smiling and looks like she’s having a great time!

Emily B.