New Method: 3 Dimensional Toning incorporates dance, yoga, and Pilates to create a different and rhythmic workout. This 50-minute program is divided into two sections: a 30-minute Pilates-based set and a 20-minute core-con... more »ditioning set. The first of these workouts centers on limbering movements and lengthening poses. Yoga-like forward bends, deep lunges, and stretches aid in elongating muscles, while the ballet and modern dance choreography keep the tempo up beat. The terminology and dance-based moves would make a prima ballerina proud, but the average participant may be challenged if lacking in formal dance training. With practice, beginners should attain the ability to execute these steps after a few previews of this set. The second portion of this program focuses on the core muscles of the abdomen and low back (in addition to the spine and naval connection). Breathing, body alignment, and balance are taught throughout this toning section, and students are encouraged to be aware of body symmetry. The legs and gluteus get some attention here and every exercise can be intensified with the contraction of major muscles. Overall, this double-whammy format works on many levels to tone and strengthen muscles, while using a full range of motion to aid in flexibility. --Olivia Voigts« less
"I am a big fan of "The Method" videos and am so glad to see Jennifer Kries and her gang come up with these non-cheerleader, non-techno tapes that emphasize form and concentration. I have been using the "Precision Toning" workout for over half a year and am grateful for what its done for my posture, abs, back and legs (I can actually see my quads popping out nowadays when I'm doing the Hundred!) - a remedy indeed for one who hates doing crunches, squats and lunges to cheesy music. The first part of "3-Dimensional Toning" is really a combination of "Dance to Fitness" (but without the need for as much living room space), the hips section of "Target Specifics" that's ballet-centric, and the legs section of "Target Specifics" that's really power yoga. And you will sweat by the end of the first section! The second part is traditional Pilates matwork all the way - no where near as taxing as "Precision Toning" but just enough to get your back decently aligned and your abs feeling strong. Jennifer has done an excellent job of providing just enough instruction on the power yoga and Pilates exercises here. Although I enjoy "Target Specifics," it moves just a bit too fast for me to concentrate on form in the power yoga (legs) and Pilates (stomach) sections. On the contrary, many seasoned viewers of "Precision Toning" find the instructions are too detailed after a number of sessions. If you want to get a good preview of what else Jennifer can offer, "3-Dimensional Toning" is the perfect buy. Some folks like myself who own a half dozen Method tapes might complain that the workouts here are really cobbled together from previous tapes, but I do appreciate that Jennifer's put bits and pieces of three tapes into one, keeps it all going at a near-aerobic pace in the first section and provides more form pointers than she did in the slightly faster-paced "Target Specifics". It's a workout that can be done in 45 minutes (if you skip the instructions on breathing once you've got that down, if not, it's 50 minutes). Music is light, instrumental stuff (some jazzy, some Latin) mostly in the background since her vocal instructions are essential in this kind of workout and rightfully, take precedence on the soundtrack."
Worth the money
Kathleen Heintzelman | 03/18/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I just purchased this tape and was eager to try it out. I like that it is split in two segments and the cover is correct with the amount of time it list. The first segment is 30 minutes long with a mixture of ballet, dance and yoga. The 20 minute segment is my favorite with on the mat workout for your ab, legs, thighs and buttocks. It is the perfect amount of time to use everyday along with other Method tapes perhaps the 15 minute target specifics. I am glad that we have a exercise program that can make us just as beautiful as the stars we see with their more than perfect bodies. No other program have I used has shown more definition in a shorter amount of time then using the Method programs. I like that Music (soft background)has been included in the tape not overpowering Jennifer's instructions."
Not for beginners!
Godeby Family | Bethesda, MD United States | 07/27/2001
(2 out of 5 stars)
"I bought this dvd because of its good reviews and because I was looking for a pilates workout and liked that this had a dance section, yoga section, and pilates section. This workout assumes you are at least at an intermediate level in all three areas (i.e. dance, yoga & pilates). It is NOT for beginners!I took professional pilates classes with properly qualified instructors to the beginning-intermediate level and I would not recommend anyone who is a pilates beginner do this workout. Jennifer does not sufficiently explain the movements nor how your body should be positioned for them. She gives no attention to maintaining the C-curve in your spine & abdominals in moves like the roll-up and performs an advanced one with no warning that this is not to be attempted until you have been doing pilates a while, nor how important it is for your back that you keep your legs straight and ensure they don't lift off the ground, and if they do that you are not ready for that advanced level yet.I found it difficult to follow the dance section having no ballet background, and the yoga section really assumes you have done beginners yoga in order to keep up and have good form.If you know what you are doing i.e. if you have done at least beginners classes of ballet/dance, yoga and pilates you will probably be ok with this workout and pick it up after a little while. If you are just starting out, don't start with this one."
Very cool tape
dnk | Boston, MA United States | 10/31/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm really surprised by all of the negative reviews this tape has gotten. I've really enjoyed this workout. The Total Body section is great. It's a fast-paced toning section that will make you break a sweat, and I love the combination of modern dance, ballet and yoga. I alternate this tape with the Metabolic Booster section of "Perfect Mix" for a fun, non-traditional, light aerobic workout on days when I want to skip the kickboxing or step. This is great for someone who wants to do a little dance but doesn't want to spend an hour doing so. Surprisingly, your going to feel this in your arms as well. You may not believe me now, but just give it a try :-)Yes, I did have a "Living Arts moment" during the Pilates section. (If you don't know what I'm talking about, go check out the reviews for their Pilates tapes by Ana Caban.) It wasn't so bad, though, that I couldn't get through the instruction and it didn't last throughout the section.I really enjoy watching and listening to Jennifer Kries. Her words are inspirational, and sometimes she cracks me up with her "yeah, I know it's a challenge now, but you'll get it with practice" attitude. We should all probably accept the fact that we will never be as long-legged or as flexible as she is, but we can get more flexible and leaner than we are.If you're looking to lengthen your muscles and improve your balance, you should definitely give this a try."
4 types of workout in one DVD...
dnk | 10/14/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Since I discovered Ms. Jennifer Kries workouts DVD's a year ago, I become a huge fan and have almost all her DVD's and Videos. She is my personal home trainer! and her workouts changed my body's look and posture.
This DVD is one of the best out there. The DVD has two workout segments{ you can do both or one at a time,if you are a very busy person}. Workout 1 is a combination of jazz, ballet and yoga moves {30 mins.}Workout 2 is a classic Pilates core conditioning moves{20 mins}. Both workouts are invigorating and exciting. If you are a total begginer, pls be patient bec. she doesn't stop and explain. She talks while doing the moves, you need to position yourself where you can see her while doing the moves but when you come to the point where you knew the moves by heart all you have to do is listen to her voice.
I like itbec. it doesn't bore you and you constantly moving}you will master the moves in time and you will be glad she's not one
of those instructor who thinks you are so clueless!
My advice is to watch the tape first.
She always reminds you about breathing and just to do the moves to your capacity. She is freakingly limber so don't despair if you found out you are nowhere near her capacity.
The DVD also includes tips from the expert. They discuss about how the physical wellness improves the quality of our lives. The DVD feature music only segments,if you already master the moves and tired of listening to the talk.{ Jennifer is not tiring to listen at all, she has a pleasant voice and personality, not at all intimidating}
If you are looking for a variety and new kind of workout in one setting, try this and you won't be dissapointed.Crosstrain with other of her workouts Precision Pilates and Perfect Mix. Another of her bests, you won't be lost with the moves bec. some of it are introduced or repeated in these 3 DVD workouts.I also recommend the other Ms Kries workouts :1.The method:Scuplting,{pilates standing series with 2 to 3 lbs weight.
2Dance to fitness (jazz and aerobics},
3.Target Specifics:ABS{pilates moves}, Arms pilates standing series with 3lbs weight}, Legs{ballet and pilates leg series} and thigh{ yoga/ballet}. Each segments is 15 mins.long.
Have a good workout and you will see the difference it makes in your body in no time!"