Search - Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates - Triple Threat on DVD

Cool new workout

Gina | 03/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This tape has it all! The intro is a nice reminder about all you have to keep in mind during the main workout. At the end of the workout ,I've done it all in a short amount of time---Cardio, balance and toning... It's a fun and varied program with moves and combinations I haven't seen before. The instructor is also pleasant to watch. You really feel like she's right there with you."

Thorough...if anything, too thorough

Smiley Bride | New York, NY | 11/05/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As the previous reviewer mentioned, this DVD is excellent because it includes (low-impact) cardio work, toning, and balance. As not mentioned by the previous reviewer, it also includes a lot of stretching. Whereas I am sure this is "correct" from an exercise expert's point of view, it does take up time. The entire workout (not including the introductory explanation -- which is separate) takes an hour and 12 minutes! That is more time than I personally am in the practice of devoting to exercise.

For comparison, I am someone who has worked out twice a week for less than a year. I find the cardio work challenging -- perhaps because I use a weighted ball -- I tried 8 lbs, found it too hard, and downgraded to 6 lbs for now. It looks like she might be using an unweighted ball, which may be why I find the arms/shoulder workouts the hardest part! I also find the balance part challenging, but then again I am not blessed with lots of natural balancing ability. The balancing is harder if you take your shoes off -- do so. I find the abs part easy. Note that unlike most DVDs the toning, cardio, and balance demands are combined into a single move and the switched among quite quickly. Based on the titles of the chapters, you may think that you can get, for example, all of the toning in the last third, whereas in reality it is mixed in throughout. Personally that is a plus in my book, but it depends on what you are looking for.

The instructor's demeanor is different from any other I have seen -- she is encouraging and cheerful while somehow being very low-key. If that is the style you are looking for, Jennifer Gianni is it. She uses some technical terms that may be beyond the ken of the average DVD buyer; it does not affect my ability to follow the moves.

All in all, this workout is effective, but not emotionally satisfying because I usually don't have time to finish it and because she is not super rah rah."