Search - Kathy Smith - Fat Burning Breakthrough on DVD

Excellent and varied interval workout

03/09/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've owned this video for a month, and already it's become one of my favorites. The aerobic portion consists of two five-part, 18-minute "waves" of varying intensity. Each wave progresses as follows: (1) lower intensity (but not wimpy) step aerobics; (2) intermediate intensity step aerobics; (3) very high intensity step aerobics; (4) low intensity step aerobics (to bring the heart rate down a bit, but your heart is still working); and (5) upper-body weights with optional cardio intensifiers. After the two waves is a series of exactly 100 sit-ups, followed by a thorough, relaxing stretch that progresses smoothly and logically from one muscle to the next. The total workout length is 50 minutes, about 37 of which are aerobic. (You remain in your working heart rate zone during the weight training portions.)The variety, fast pace, and efficiency of this tape make it so attractive. The moves change with each part of the wave, so you don't get bored. Not a minute is wasted: the transitions are very rapid -- so rapid, in fact, that you need to have your dumbbells ready to pick up immediately after the step aerobics. Additionally, the instrumental, non-vocal music has a great, modern beat and is very motivating.Sometimes Kathy cues a little late, but the choreography is so basic that it's not a problem after you do the workout a few times. Her instruction is pretty business-like and non-chatty, and she whoops only once or twice. I've always liked Kathy; she seems down-to-earth, smart, and sincerely interested in her fans' well-being.This video is adaptable anywhere from intermediate to advanced levels. The more advanced can use more power moves or add heavier weights during the weight sections. I highly recommend this tape.Equipment needed: step bench and at least two sets of dumbbells (5 to 15 pounds each depending on your level), plus towel to wipe off all the sweat!"

Best K.S. in 10 yrs.!

01/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I came on-line only to write this review because I would have found it so helpful for someone to let me know about videos instead of having a library of 30 videos, only 5 of which I use! This is the BEST Kathy Smith video in 10 yrs. I think it is a much better workout than Functionally Fit. It is along the lines of her first fat burning videos. The cardio is a step up (no pun intended) which is the real challenge/high point. I actually double both cardio segments because I really enjoy cardio. The weight portion is enough to get a little pumped up for the day (this time, pun intended). The abs are easy but a good maintenance. I am not gifted in choreography, but I was able to get a great workout the first time through. It does get hips and thighs with the killer squat segment on the step. For only 50 minutes, this is amazingly efficient. Not a minute is wasted, yet I never felt left in the dust as I have with MANY other step videos. I may not look like the exercisers on stage, but I also don't feel like a complete moron. I really look forward to doing this video and feel great the whole day through. I consider myself an intermediate to advanced exerciser but a beginner in choreography, in case this information can help. Hope this helps you decide! And if Kathy Smith reads this, I say "Thanks, and keep 'em coming!""

What A Workout!

toohardtofindanickname | Antelope, CA United States | 12/29/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Kathy Smith's Fat Burning Breakthrough is an awesome low impact, high intensity step aerobic workout. It focuses on all the major muscle groups,and believe me, it works them hard. After just two weeks of using this video I noticed visible results in my buttocks, abs, and especially my thighs. This video is based on a wave concept; in the first wave, your feeling easy as the moves begin to "wake-up" your muscles; the second wave gets you moving a little harder, putting a little more resistance on the muscles, particularly buns and thighs; the third and final wave zeros in, working your heart and muscles, creating a challenge that's sure to break through the toughest plateau.Also included in the video are two weight lifting segments,which use light weights for sculpting and muscle building. This is great for beginners, but those with more stamina can use heavier weights for terrific results.I recommend this workout for anyone who needs a challenge in their routine, but also needs fun choreography with hip hop music. It's great!"

Whew . . . What a Workout!

Carol | Greenacres, FL USA | 10/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great interval-type workout. The first 25 minutes includes a 5 minute warm-up, a step work-out that moves very quickly from low intensity to high, then a short recovery on the step followed by some upper body weight work--then you move right into another low intensity step routine that moves quickly into high intensity and ends with more upper body weight work and push-ups (a total cardio of 45 minutes). Next comes some ab work followed by a nice stretch. I love this tape because you start out so basic and before you know it, your heart rate is soaring! You really feel great when it's over!"