(Sony)
1999
What is it?
A 50-minute kickboxing workout from fitness expert Kathy Smith. The DVD contains two workouts, a 45-minute workout and a 60-minute "challenge," plus a 15-minute Tai Chi "Energizer."
Who is it for?
Intermediate exercisers. Kickboxing experience isn't necessary - there is a segment that shows proper form for kicks and punches. It helps to know a bit of Tai Chi for the "Energizer" section. You'll need a sturdy chair for one segment that focuses on toning the lower body.
What to expect:
If you want an aggressive cardio workout that'll really add tone to your lower body, your should definitely add kickboxing to your exercise repertoire. Kathy Smith has put together a kickboxing workout that works for both kickboxing newbies and those who are looking for something a bit different from, say, Billy Blank's Tae Bo series. To help with instruction, Smith has enlisted martial arts expert Keith Cooke and together they've designed a killer workout that really shapes your glutes and thighs without neglecting your upper body (don't be surprised if your shoulders are sore after the first time you dig into this routine!). The DVD is the better value because it offers you the choice of two different workouts - the basic, 45-minute workout or a more challenging 60-minute routine - and also makes it possible for you to design your own routine. Also included is a stretch and cooling down segment, half by Smith's fellow fitness instructor Keli Roberts and half by Cooke. It's Tai Chi-influenced so if you don't know this exercise style, it may be a bit hard to catch on. But overall this is an excellent workout program. Smith has surrounded herself with talented, skilled instructors to present kickboxing in a way that's fun and accessible for just about anybody.