The Firm - Body Sculpting System: Fat Blasting Cardio (DVD, 2004)

I have worked out using the FIRM videos (and more recently, their DVDs) for years now with good results, so I thought I would try their newer titles, but I must say that I was somewhat disappointed with this one. Even though step workout is a nice change of pace from weights and aerobics with weights in many of the FIRM titles in their series, this DVD with minimal cast and boring and uninspiring music in the background make it seem so much less in quality than many other outstanding workouts the FIRM has come up with over the years.

The "master instructor" (a title they seem to give to every lead in their video/DVD) Lisa Kay is not in the same class as such FIRM greats as Tracie Long, Susan Harris, or Jennifer Carman. Her cueing leaves much to be desired, and her oddly high voice flips at times as if she's either nervous or somewhat uncomfortable doing the exercise and giving cues at the same time. If you're new to the step, watch the program once before trying it. Some parts will be confusing because they generally don't show the steps in half tempo many times before going into the regular tempo. It is not too overly complicated so most people will be able to catch up after a few viewings.

The program does give you a decent workout (sweat) for the 30 plus minutes, which is short by the FIRM standard, but if you're short on time, want to do a step aerobics with small weights for scuplting, or just want to go easy on yourself for that day, this program is OK. I can think of other titles in the FIRM, especially in the classic series that would do the same without sacrificing overall quality.

The box claimed that this program "is so much fun that you wouldn't want this workout to end", but I beg to differ. I would give this workout "below average" by the FIRM standard, but "average" by industry standard.