The Firm - Cross Trainers: The Tortoise Workout (VHS, 1997)

This is another excellent volume of exercise video from TheFIRM, aerobic workout with weights. And as the box says, "visible results in 10 workouts", which is more like "in 3 workouts" (At least that was the case for this reviewer).

The video's main lead is the fabulous Tracie Long -- probably the most "ripped" of all TheFIRM leads to ever appear on their videos with beautiful all over muscle tone. She is unsurpassed as a master instructor with excellent demonstration of exercises as well as verbal cue timing. You will not miss a beat with her telling you what to do and how to do the exercises. For classic TheFIRM video fans (myself included), there's a treat that is not mentioned on the video's box. Master instructor Susan Harris makes her appearance in this video as a co-lead, leading the beginning stretch, ballroom step aerobics section(Charleston)and cool-down stretch.

As the title describes, this is a slower tempo workout with heavier weights that uses barbells (You can perform the exercises with dumbells.), interspersed with light aerobics that uses some of the ballroom dance music and moves (cha cha, tango, etc.). If you're a beginner, the steps may seem confusing at first, but after a few viewings, it is easy to catch on.

This workout is, by no means, easy, as all TheFIRM volumes are serious workouts, but by varying the weights, it is accessible for most anyone from beginner to advanced. The description on the box mentions that this workout is designed to be used with The Hare Workout - light weights and fast tempo-, which is great to use on alternating days as cross training tools. Master instructor Tracie Long is the lead on The Hare Workout, also.

I am very happy with this video. I have a total of 10 TheFIRM volumes and I can say that their workouts are well designed, motivating and best of all, EFFECTIVE. Aside from my ballet and jazz dancing (I am a dance teacher.), TheFIRM workouts are my only cross training programs that help me keep up or out-dance the teenagers (I am more than twice their age.).

If you are serious about transforming your physique and maintain good health, try this workout and many other TheFIRM volumes. (By the way, I am NOT affiliated with TheFIRM in any way NOR paid to endorse their videos.)