The Firm - Body Sculpting System 2: 4-Pack (DVD)

Don't let the cover fool you! I actually already had this set stashed away somewhere, but this cover is different than the one used when the Firm first released this series. Because the woman on the cover isn't a leader in any of the videos, I thought it was a different set. That being said, I am happy with the product. One of my DVDs had broken, so I was glad to have a replacement. This is a fantastic set! I love all of the Firm products, and these DVDs are especially tough. You will need to have the Fanny Lifter and Scupting stick for these videos - or at very least, a stackable step and a broom handle or something similar. They are tough, but good. Each video is about 50 minutes. Also, if you have bad knees, the 14-inch step is very difficult to do properly. I often find myself using the 8-inch piece by itself. The instructors all do a good job of cueing the moves. Total Sculpt Plus Abs is a strength and toning video. There is little cardio, though you will find your heart rate stays up through the whole thing because you alternate and sometimes combine upper and lower body exercises. Complete Aerobics and Weight Training will leave you utterly exhausted! It's easily my favorite of the videos. The lead, Emily, has an infectious enthusiasm, and has designed fun aerobics moves. The cardio sections that use the step require time to master. I tend to trip over my own two feet quite a bit! Maximum Cardio Burn is a fast-paced cardio workout. It does give you breathers every now and then by using the Fanny Lifter for slower glute & leg work. If you are seriously overweight, you will likely find it difficult to complete, but hang in there. It does get easier. I have not gotten strong enough to master all of the Firm Abs workout. It is divided into 3 short sections with increasing intensity. They can be completed individually or as a unit. The exercises go well beyond standard crunches, though they certainly have their place. The first section left me feeling like rubber for 3 days. You can't go wrong with this set. Just make sure you have the Fanny Lifter (or Transfirmer) and Sculpting Stick, or suitable substitutes, or these videos will be worthless to you.