Walking Fit Strength & Flexibility Workouts

This VHS tape came in a Gaiam kit with a pair of 3 lb. dumbbells, a strap and a CD. There are two workouts on the tape, a short strength routine and a stretching routine. The stretching section is done in voiceover, which I don't like and therefore do not use. Generally speaking, I do not enjoy strength workouts, although I know need to do them. The longer they are, the more I dread them. At about 25 minutes, this one goes by quickly and is over before I know it. The instructor is by herself on a platform on a lovely beach. I really like outdoor settings for workouts. I also tend to gravitate to workouts where there are less than 3 participants, so I can concentrate on what one individual is doing, rather than being distracted by a bunch of people flailing about in my peripheral vision. The workout contained squats, lunges, bicep curls, a rotator cuff exercise, some abdominal work, push-ups and planks. Madeleine goes slowly enough that you can use heavier weights than the 3 lbs. she is using. I really like her personality. She is pleasant, friendly and calm. High intermediate and advanced exercisers won't find this workout challenging enough, but for beginners and low intermediates, I think it is a viable option.

I like these very much. There are 2 separate workouts, both filmed in the prettiest outdoor setting I have yet to see in any workout video. Absolutely gorgeous. The toning workout is about 24 minutes long and Madeleine uses light weights, but the pace of the workout easily allows for heavier weights. The stretching workout is 23 minutes long and uses a strap. Very relaxing and a great stretch. I think they did a good job with these.