The Firm - Firm Parts: 5-Day Abs/Tough Tape 2 (DVD, 2002)

This DVD with 2 programs is an excellent value for the price. They broke down each programs into chapters for DVD, so you can cue up to the chapter you want without fastforwarding (VHS days...).

"Tough Tape 2" (IMO, this could have been titled, "Not So Tough Tape", it certainly isn't as hard as the first "Tough Tape".) is only 49 minutes of compiled excercises from the FIRM's many other titles. It gives you a variety of instructors (as well as different backdrops) for each segment. Even though it is a compilation program, it does not have the "choppy" feeling as much, as seen in some of their other compilation programs. The transitions (in editing) are pretty cleanly and smoothly done. The look of the program might seem dated, but the workout itself is solid. By customizing the size of the weights you use, you can go from beginner to advanced. This is my regular "short and easy day" workout. I bought it as a part of 2 DVD pack that came with another DVD that had "Upper Body/ Standing Legs". This one is used far more often.

The "5 Day Abs" is yet another compilation program taken from the original FIRM classic total body workout series that came out in late 80's to early 90's (Volumes 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6). The look in this program is even more dated (heavy makeup on instructors and French cut leotard with tights and jazz oxfords for shoes -- although they all look so beautiful), but the routines are very nice and compact. In 6 to 9 minutes (depending on the day segment you choose), you can work your abs fairly thoroughly. Any "day" segment of this program is a good way to round up your other FIRM programs that don't have abdominal segment. Of course, you could just do this program as a stand alone workout. And for the hardcore exerciser, doing all 5 days in one session gives you a tough abdominal workout.

There is also a bonus segment on this DVD where they give you the review of some of the basic weight moves and explain how (and how not to) do some exercises. I would recomment that if you're new to the FIRM, you start by watching this portion first.