GIVEAWAY: Michele Olson's Perfect Legs, Glutes & Abs Review & Giveaway

This giveaway is now over. Please check out other Fitness For The Rest of Us giveaways by clicking on the "giveaways" tab in my header.

This giveaway is courtesy of Michele Olson PhD. Michele has a PhD in Exercise Physiology. Professor of exercise science at Auburn University. Certified by NSCA in strength and conditioning. AFAA, ACE, NCSA and ACSM presenter. Michele is the lead in the 10 Minute Solution: Ultimate Kettlebell Fat Burner and Perfect Legs, Glutes & Abs

Keep reading to find out how you can win your very own copy of her Perfect Legs, Glutes & Abs dvd. 

Review: Perfect Legs, Glutes & Abs

Michele Olson, 2010

Michele leads this 60 min workout alone in a cute set on a little raised platform. You will need dumbbells and a chair for this workout. The dvd is nicely chaptered and divided up into: warmup, Mega Moves Legs & Glutes, Mega Moves Abs, Master Moves Legs & Glutes, and Master Moves Abs. 

Mega Moves Legs & Glutes: (20 min) The 'Mega' workouts focus on large muscle groups. While this segment is more traditional sculpting, Michele varies the pace & tempo to keep the moves interesting & to challenge your muscles in new ways. Exercises include: static lunge-twist, side squat, dips, squat w/ twist, squat single arm OH press, side knee pulls, KB swing, squat jumps, etc. This section got my heartrate up nicely. 

Mega Moves Abs: (6 min) All done on the floor.Exercises include: double leg extension, bicycle rollups, Russian twists, sit up- leg extension combo, hip circles, etc. 

Master Moves Legs & Glutes: (21 min) The 'Master' workouts focus on deep muscle conditioning. This section def hit my muscles in a different way than my usual routine. Exercises include: pliets, close leg ballet style pliets, pliet jump, curtsy lunge. Exercises using the chair include: 1 legged squats sitting & standing, side leg lifts while lifting your other heel (nice burn here!), balancing stick, single leg good mornings,etc. Michele does a great job of adding in balance work in this segment & also varies the tempo of the exercises. 

Master Moves Abs: (5 min) full body double clam, double bicycle, leg drops, dead bug, twisting reverse crunch w/ legs fully extended, etc.

I would rate this workout a solid intermediate that could be modified to fit your needs based on the poundage you use. There are plenty of reps so I didnt have to use my heaviest weights (combining both workouts). The pace is such that you could easily heavy up if you wanted to do only 1 of the segments. Very versatile time options and Michele is obviously a very knowledgeable instructor. This is a unique workout that has a top shelf spot in my library!

Giveaway Mandatory Entry: Check out Michele's website & tell me something you learned along with your email address.

Optional Entries (after completing the mandatory entry above):

• 1 Entry: Tell me what you like about this workout (review above)
• 1 Entry: Like Fitness For the Rest of Us on facebook
• 2 Entries: Post about this giveaway on facebook
• 1 Entry: Follow my blog. Already a follower? Just leave a comment saying so
• 5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link 
• 1 Entry: Vote in my poll (upper right corner of my blog)
• 1 Per Tweet: Tweet about this giveaway w/ a link to my blog (up to 3X per day 1 hour apart)
• 1 Entry: Follow me on twitter
• 2 Entries per giveaway: Enter any of my other current giveaways here (leave separate comments for each giveaway)
• 2 Entries per giveaway: Enter any of the Win, Lose, or Blog giveaways (separate comments for each giveaway)

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 3/10 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and announced on 3/12. The winner will be selected using random.org random number generator. Contest open to  EVERYONE!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.  I can not be held responsible for shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Rock Climbing!

Here are a few quick photos-we went to this indoor activity park thing the other day and there was a rock climbing wall. It was really fun, way more difficult than I thought it would be! The little nubs are super small & hard to hold onto (I broke 3 nails!) and my shoes were really slippery. We were addicted & tried like 10X.

My dad & I

DH & my niece

Have a great weekend everyone!

WINNER: Collage Video: Bob Harpers Body Rev Cardio Conditioning

Congrats to the winner of Bob Harpers Body Rev Cardio Conditioning dvd courtesy of Collage Video is  Barb S said..."Posted about this giveaway on facebook."

She will be emailed and have 48 hours to respond & claim their fabulous prizes!!! Thank you to everyone who entered and a HUGE thanks to Collage Video for sponsoring this and TWO future giveaways (Bob Harpers Pure Burn Super Strength AND The Firm Zero in Ten). Keep checking back for those & other Fitness For The Rest of Us Giveaways. Or check out my current giveaways here.

2.25.10: Q&A Session With Fitness Professional Bernadette Giorgi

I had the WONDERFUL opportunity to "interview" Bernadette Giorgi - who is a certified Pilates Instructor, teacher trainer, and the star of a Pilates video series that includes her best selling "Attitude Ballet Pilates Fusion." AND she has maintained an EIGHTY lb weight loss- can't get more inspiring than that! Her answers are in purple below.

Bernadette is the creator of the just b method, Pilates & Movement Arts. Moving away from intense drill centered workouts; Giorgi's "just b method" uses the ease of movement found in Pilates to motivate her clients toward healthier lifestyle choices. Pilates invigorates the body by drawing from a range of "mind/body" disciplines that offer a workout to heighten body awareness.

Q: You've maintained a substantial weight loss- how do you keep the motivation every day to continue on your healthy living journey and not go back to "old habits"

A: My approach is "Its a new day" If I get off track by not exercising or eating properly today, I do not continue tomorrow. I tell myself,"Today is a new day, new beginning, new clean white page - I don't use exercise as punishment or restrictive eating. I do exercise daily & count calories, watch fat & carb intake

Q:. What is your current 'go to' workout routine:? 

A: I really mix it up. Since we've experienced so much snow, I'm not getting outside to do my power walks, so I've been on my rebounder for my cardio! Having a blast! Of course I do Pilates with light weights or Reformer everyday

Q: What is good about interval training? I've been hearing a lot about it lately, what are the benefits. 

A: Interval training is a great way to keep your body & mind "engaged" I love to "mix it up" in all of my classes and in my own personal workout.

Q:. Any tips on staying on track with our diet and exercise programs?

A: I think most people allow themselves to go on a downward spiral. If they "cheated" at lunch they continue at dinner, etc. First, theres no such thing as cheating. If you want a cookie, have 1, not 10. If you know you can't control yourself or have the impulse to eat the entire bag, buy the single serving "100 calorie" packs. They are more expensive but at least you had your "treat" and its counted out. I am fortunate that I LOVE greens & raw veggies so the eating is under control. I do a lot of "talking to myself" or mindful eating. I notice how great I feel after a kale & grilled tuna salad or an apple with sunflower butter. I LOVE French fries or chips but notice how bloated I feel etc   

Q: What is your favorite healthy snack? 

A: My favorite snack to get me thru the day is an apple with either low fat baby bella cheese. My favorite "treat" is a dark chocolate square or mini York peppermint patty ONE! ;) 

Q: What is the best piece of health or fitness advice you can offer?

A: I think to have fun. When I started on this journey, I didn't want to "workout" I didn't feel comfortable at the gym & did like the machines. I remembered how much I love to dance - so I grabbed some weights & gave myself a ballet class. I had fun. Same with eating. Experiment & do what feels good. By taking care of your body, your body will take care you of you. Better Body Better Life ...

Q: How do you make time to fit your workouts in?

A: Believe it or not, this is really difficult for me. Teaching anywhere from 7-13 hours a day is not working out - its work! I cardio 20 minutes at a time. Its a different time everyday. What has helped me is plan my day the night before or early in the morning. I actually make a list & schedule my workout in. As women we schedule everything else for everyone else. Put YOU on your schedule - don't try to "squeeze" you in. This really works ... 

Thank you so much Bernadette for sharing your insights! 

For more info on Bernadette and the Just b Method check out her:

Website

E-Store

Facebook 

Twitter

Supreme 90 Day Review: Back & Bi's

Supreme 90 Day:  Back & Bi's
Tom Holland, 2010

Tom leads this 50 min workout with 3 b/gers in a "lifting gym" type set. You will need dumbbells and a stability ball (though no equipment modifications are shown). Tom acts as a PT and one b/g'er shows modifications. Though the focus of this dvd is back (upper & lower) and bi's- there is a nice core circuit includes too. The dvd is chaptered (warmup and workout) and has a music only option.

This workout is structured so you do 3 exercises and then repeat those 3 times. The warmup is the same on all the strength dvds (guessing here, have only done 2 strengths). Different from the others Ive tried- before each circuit a demo clip of each move is shown so you know what exercises you will be doing.

The 1st circuit is core focused: ball bridge, side plank & sit up twist. Back & Bi exercises include: alternating arm pullover on ball, renegade (plank) rows, curl variations, good morning w/ prone press, diagonal pull on the ball, rotating bi curls, reverse hyperextensions on the ball, bent row, concentration curls, deadlift row, single arm row, and diagonal bi curls.

This dvd is really suitable for most levels depending on the poundage and # of reps you do. I heavied up as much as possible & did the full 12 reps of each move and really got a kickbutt strength workout. Tom emphasizes doing what you can do in the time alloted. Love: Tom uses real life examples of why we all need strength training, emphaizes heavying up, and that women should heavy up too. Tom is a great lead, good cuing and includes a lot of variations to really hit the muscles in different ways. Received this dvd to review.

$30 Stick-e Giftcard GIVEAWAY! Three Winners!

This giveaway is now over. Please check out other Fitness For The Rest of Us giveaways by clicking on the "giveaways" tab in my header.

Stick-e is a small family owned business that makes Stick-e Yoga Socks, Stick-e Yoga Gloves, Stick-e Wrist Savers, Stick-e Yoga Mats, and Stick-e Yoga Towels. Stick-e Yoga and Pilates Accessories make a more rewarding fitness experience!

Keep reading to find out how you three readers can win a $30.00 Stick-e giftcard!

Nothing is worse than sliding around during your yoga or pilates workout- how frustrating!  My feet get too cold to go barefoot and socks have me sliding all around. Oh and going to a studio to work our on shared mats in bare feet- PASS. Well I have found the answer! Stick-e Yoga Socks. Comfortable, cute, and Stick-e! They are so much more comfortable than those yoga socks with the annoying bumps that just end up falling off! They kept my feet warm & kept me in perfect position while working out. They are machine washable and come in their very own mesh washing bag:

Check out the Stick-E Yoga Gloves! They absorb sweat, provide a secure grip on mats and workout equipment while leaving the fingers free for full dexterity.  No longer will sweating and slipping be a problem! Use the back of the glove to wipe the sweat off your brow and neck:

And these are super cool! Stick-e Wrist Savers for Comfort and Support provides: comfort and support during upper body weight bearing exercises, less stress on the wrist joint, hold longer poses, non-slip, virtually weightless for continuous wear during a yoga session, cushion for the palm of the hand, & are Orthopedic Surgeon approved.

Head on over to the Stick-e website & buy yourself one of these awesome Stick-e accessories. Or keep reading three lucky readers will win a $30 Stick-e giftcard!!!

Mandatory Entry: Sign up for the Stick-e Newsletter (very bottom right hand corner here) come back here & let me know you signed up along with your email address.

Optional Entries (after completing the mandatory entry above):

• 10 Entries: Purchase something from Stick-e THIS WEEK and tell me what you bought
• 1 Entry: Like Stick-e on facebook
• 1 Entry: Like Fitness For the Rest of Us on facebook
• 1 Entry: Post about this giveaway on facebook
• 1 Entry: Follow my blog. Already a follower? Just leave a comment saying so
• 5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link 
• 1 Entry: Check out the Stick-e store and tell me what you'll get if you win
• 1 Entry: Follow Stick-e on twitter
• 1 Per Tweet: Tweet about this giveaway w/ a link to my blog (up to 3X per day 1 hour apart)
• 1 Entry: Follow me on twitter
• 1 Entry per giveaway: Enter any of my other current giveaways here.
• 1 Entry per giveaway: Enter any of the Win, Lose, or Blog giveaways

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 3/4 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and announced on 3/5. The winner will be selected using random.org random number generator. Contest open to EVERYONE!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.  I can not be held responsible for shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Supreme 90 Day Review: Tabata Inferno. LOVED IT!

Supreme 90 Day: Tabata Inferno
Tom Holland, 2010

This is a 45ish minute cardio routine (with lots of good core work too!). Tom leads the workout with 4 backgrounders in a "lifting gym" type set. You will only need dumbbells for this workout (I used 1 set of lighter). The dvd is chaptered and includes a music only option.

This workout is formated that you do 20 seconds of work, 10 second break for 4 minutes then you get a 1 min rest. The 20 seconds is hard work but the rests make this workout totally doable! LOVE how this is formatted. I worked up quite the sweat and KNOW I worked really hard but I didnt feel like I was going to die because of the sequencing of the moves.

Some of the moves include: jump squats, Mt.climbers, high knees, weighted squat w/ an overhead press, pushup variations, bicycle crunches, walking planks, plyo lunges, pike crunches, weighted twisting v sits, squatting wood chops, power jacks, burpees, etc.

I would rate this an advanced cardio workout that includes a ton of good core work as well. There are some pushups and the squat- overhead press move, but I still consider this cardio. I like Tom- good cuing, good personality. He emphasizes doing what YOU can do in the 20 seconds so though this is a challenging workout- I think it would easily adapt to most fitness levels. I absolutely love the sequencing of this workout- well thought out and super effective IMO. I received this dvd to review.

Have You Checked Out EdenFantasy's Lately?

Potential Adult Content. But nothing too risqué and all presented with utmost taste. 

I recently had the opportunity to do an EdenFantasys.com giveaway that was a huge success! Thank you EdenFantasys! We work hard, we eat right- we deserve to feel cute & flirty for our significant others! 

EdenFantasys offers a HUGE variety of cute little lingerie sets, fun & sexy Halloween costumes, massage oils, candles, dvds, adult novelties, giftcards, and more. And you can shop from the convenience of your home computer. I know I feel more comfortable shopping for my lingerie & massage oils online rather than going into one of those stores. Free gift with every order!!! They ship FAST, offer free shipping on orders over $59.00, and in discreet packaging - so you can surprise your honey. Or better yet let him surprise you and send him a link to EdenFantasys!

Here are a few of my favorite items:

Pheromone Massage Oil Candle

Basket of Love

Shunga Edible Massage Oil Candle

Pinstripe Chemise & Thong

Valentines Day has come and gone, but you don't have to save the romance for next year! Keep it fun all year with EdenFantasys!

Brook Benten Kettlebell: Butts & Guts Review

Review: Kettlebell: Butts & Guts
Brook Benten, 2010 

This all kettlebell workout is led by Brook in a cute gym set with 2 backgrounders, one shows modifications for most moves. You will need a 10-20 lb kettlebell for this workout. The dvd is chaptered very well & has good music. You will work up a great sweat while really targeting your buns!

Kettlebell Butts & Guts: (37 min) This is a heart pumping kettlebell workout. The kettlebell strength work in this provides a great cardio w/o w/ no impact or straight "cardio" work. Exercises include: swing variations, squat w/ an overhead push or toss, low runners lunge, gunslinger, pick up suitcase (weight), pliet w/ upright row, deadlifts, side lunges & dips while looping the bell around your legs, etc.

Fast-Track Express Kettlebell Butts & Guts: (16 min) This is condensed footage from the main workout (above) for days when you're short on time.

Fast-Track Kettlebell Abs: (8 min) This is a floor ab/ core section that uses your kettlebell. Exercises includes: Russain twists, V sit variations, sit ups, leg extensions, oblique crunches, double leg extensions. Brook uses the kettlebell to enhance all these moves.

I am not a kettlebell pro so I used a 10 or 15 # dumbbell and it worked just fine. I really like that I can burn a ton of calories in a strength workout w/ no straight "cardio" moves and how functional kettlebell work is! This dvd has a ton of variety and can be combined in so many ways depending on your time/ energy level for the day. Brook is a fantastic lead- I adore her personality, great cuing, fun workouts. I can't wait for more from her!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.  I can not be held responsible for shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Angie Millers Crave Results Review

Angie Miller's Crave Results
Angie Miller, 2010  

This 63 minute cardio/ strength w/o is led by Angie w/ 1 backgrounder who shows modifications. The set is super cute- almost a huge living room look to it. You will need dumbbells, (optional) tubing, and a step for this workout.

The bulk of the workout is strength work but is paced quickly so your heartrate will get up there. Between the strength sets Angie adds in a cardio burst. Lots of compound moves & she changes the tempo of the work to keep your muscles guessing. And she adds in tons of balance challenges! She also includes a core section at the end.

The fist portion of the workout Angie uses dumbbells. Angie uses one set of light dumbbells for this but I used multiple sets & heavied up as much as possible- which really upped the intensity of the work. Exercises include: clean & press w/ a knee lift, side squat off the bench w/ biceps, pulsing squats over the bench, side squat off bench -knee pull - clean & press, curtsy dips & bicep curls w/ a side lunge-knee- OH press, pliet- torso twist- w/ a heel lift & OH press, dead lift- rear delt fly, etc.

The second portion is tubing (the mod uses dumbbells). Moves include: band dip w/ rear glute raise on step, lots of bicep variations, hopping onto the step, lat row & high pulls, rotator cuff work, sumo squats, jacks & power sqauts, etc.

Done as is w/ light poundage- I would say this is an intermediate- heavying up really provided a great sweaty challenge! I really found this workout unique and fun! Angie is very chatty but super like-able (she says "ya" a lot). Her cuing and form pointers were spot on and she is obviously a very knowledgeable instructor. Easy dvd to break up or do in whole. I received this dvd  to review.

For More Information, Visit:

Angie Miller Fitness on the web

Angie Miller Fitness on Twitter

Angie Miller Fitness on Facebook

I received samples of these products to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest reviews. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Please see my disclosures page for details. Do not copy, in whole, or in part any portion of any postings on my blog. Do not repost my content on any other site without my explicit consent. All of my postings belong solely to lindsey8.blogspot.com

Martial Fusion Rockin' Body & Rapid Fire: Kick, Box & Core Burn WINNERS!

The winner of Rapid Fire: Kick, Box & Core Burn dvd is  Kris Ann who said..."I also entered the bondi band giveaway."

The winner of Martial Fusion Rockin' Body is kathy, who said..."I would like to win this workout because I like kickboxing workouts"

Both winners will be emailed and have 48 hours to respond & claim their fabulous prizes!!! Thank you to everyone who entered and a HUGE thanks to POW Fitness and Martial Fusion. Keep checking back for Fitness For The Rest of Us Giveaways or check out my current giveaways here.

Supreme 90 Day Chest, Shoulders, and Tris Review

Supreme 90 Chest, Shoulders, & Tris

Tom Holland, 2010 

This workout led is by Tom Holland who works out with 3 background exercisers in a "lifting gym" type set. Tom acts as a personal trainer & assists the others in the work. You will need dumbbells & a stability ball though Tom offers 'no equipment' options throughout. The dvd includes a chaptered warmup, workout, and cooldown and is approximately 45 minutes in entirety. Includes a music only option.

The workout is sequenced that you do three exercises in a circuit (which is shown once beforehand so you know what to expect) and then repeated three times. Exercises include: spider crawl pushups, Arnold press, tri kickback, bench press on ball, plank lat raise combo, overhead press on ball, tricep combo on the ball, pec fly w/ leg drop (hits the abs), etc. 

What I really liked was that each participant basically goes at their own pace-so you can pick one to follow or simply go at YOUR own pace. Some of the exercisers will go and change weights between moves & then jump in to start their reps. Tom says- 8-12 reps and stresses good form. So you do what you can do with good form. By the end of the 40ish minutes my chest, shoulders, and tri's were VERY well worked and I know I will be feeling this tomorrow. I like Tom- great pointers, good personality and cuing. I can't wait to try the rest of the discs in this set. I received this dvd to review from Supreme 90. 

Women's Health "Blogs We Love 2011"

If you have a moment (seriously it only took me like 30 seconds) head on over & vote for Fitness For the Rest of Us on the Women's Health website here. No registering, no info required but a name & email address- just tell them in 50 words or less why you love Fitness For the Rest of Us! My blog url is: lindseylu8.blogspot.com.

Thanks everyone!!!! And feel free to spread the word ;)

Collage Video GIVEAWAY: Bob Harper's Body Rev Cardio Conditioning Review & GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is now over. Please check out other Fitness For The Rest of Us giveaways by clicking on the "giveaways" tab in my header.

This giveaway is again courtesy of the wonderful Collage Video- whom we all know and love. Keep reading to find out how you can win Bob Harper's Cardio Conditioning dvd. You can purchase this dvd from Collage video on sale right now for ONLY $9.99! WOW

Collage Video is THE source to buy your fitness dvds. Always stellar customer service, always fast shipping! We all watch their video clips and love their catalogues. Did you know that EVERY video on their website is done by an ACE certified instructor?

• Collage Video now offers deeply discounted dvds via weekly specials? Cha-ching!
• Have you checked out their success stories lately? Real Collage customers show us which videos they used to get their results! (Im in there somewhere)
• I LOVE checking out their coming soon section to see which new dvds I *need* to add to my wishlist
• Another fun thing to do is check out their Top 10 Videos to see: which dvds you already own, and which you *need* to own!
• Don't forget they offer free shipping on most US orders over $25.00!
• Check out their active forums for some lively fitness discussions.

Review: Cardio Conditioning
Bob Harper, 2010

This dvd has a 60 minute cardio & sculpting interval workout and a 25 minute all strength workout on it. Bob (the Biggest Loser trainer) works out w/ 3 background exercisers on a really cool gym style set. You will need dumbbells for this workout. One backgound'er shows some easier modifications. There is a timer bar that counts down the hour & tells you what exercise is coming up.

The cardio & strength work in this is progressive as Bob constantly adds in new challenges- such as a hop or upper body work. Bob acts as a personal trainer in this- shows you the move & then coaches the others. You will find a TON of variety in this from kickboxing, kettle bell inspired work, athletic calisthenics, and gym style strength work.

Some of the moves include: Mt. climbers, pushups, walk out planks, jacks, punches, lots of kettlebell swing variations, static squats (ouch!), dead lift & upright rows, fast floor touch squats, fast feet, 180 jumps, overhead press, scorpion pushups, and jumping jacks.

I would rate this a low advanced cardio and strength workout. Bob does a great job of keeping things moving and really working those muscles- including the heart! If you are a fan of Bob and are looking for a challenging cardio + strength workout- this is the dvd for you! I received this dvd from Collage Video to review.

Want to try this workout out for yourself? Head on over to Collage and get yourself a copy! Want to win a copy? Enter here and remember ten entries = ten SEPARATE comments.

Mandatory Entry: Head on over to Collage Video and tell me which dvd (besides this one) that you want to try along with your email address.

Optional Entries (after completing the mandatory entry above):

• 10 Entries: Purchase something from Collage Video THIS WEEK and tell me what you bought
• 1 Entry: Like Collage on Facebook
• 1 Entry: Leave a comment on their Facebook wall telling them that I sent you
• 1 Entry: Like Fitness For The Rest of Us on Facebook
• 1 Entry: Post about this giveaway on facebook & link to me @fitnessfortherestofus
• 1 Entry: Follow my blog. Already a follower? Just leave a comment saying so
• 5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link (leave 5 comments) 
• 1 Entry: Leave me a comment telling what you like about the workout (review above)
• 1 Per Tweet: Tweet about this giveaway w/ a link to my blog (up to 3X per day 1 hr apart)
• 1 Entry: Follow me on twitter
• 3 Entries: Sign up for the Collage newsletter here (already do, leave a comment saying so)
• 2 Entries: Enter any of my other current giveaways here.
• One Entry: Vote in my poll (upper right hand corner of my blog)

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 2/25 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and annouced on 2/26. Remember 2 entries = 2 comments (so for blogging about this you would leave 5 separate comments). Contest open to EVERYONE! Good Luck!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.  I can not be held responsible for shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.

Hemalayaa: Bollywood Party Workout Review

Hemalayaa: Bollywood Party Workout

Hemalayaa, 2010 **** (4 of 5 stars)

This dvd contains two superfun 20 minute Bollywood style workouts and a 5 minute cooldown & warmup. Hemalayaa works out alone in an awesome set with brightly colored speakers, a high back chair, an Indian looking statue, and flowing curtains in the background. You won't need any equipment (she doesnt even wear shoes!) The dvd is chaptered and includes some bonus clips from other Acacia workouts.

Wedding Party: Though the cover says this is a toning workout, its more cardio IMO. There is plenty of oblique/core work and she does work on different levels-which hits the legs a bit. Moves include: Indian Barbie, walk it out w/ big arms, booty magic (pivoting toe taps), flirty travel (skip forward walk back), bridal booty (Indian style mambo chacha), etc. Hemalayaa does a great job of adding in big Bollywood style arm movements to amp up the intensity.

House Party: Really fun "Bollywood club scene" Bollywood routine. The time went by fast and I was having a blast with this routine. Moves include: pelvic lure, spinal grind, chest pumps, a fun "polish your rump," horsey ride, gallup, spark (squat w/ a shimmy & shake), & hip travels. You learn each move and then put them together at the end for a complete Bollywood routine. FUN FUN FUN!

I would rate this workout high beginner/ low intermediate in terms of cardio and choreography levels. I had NO trouble following along with any of the moves- all straight forward and fun. More enjoyable than a walking workout but still easy to follow along to- about the same intensity level IMO. Hemalayaa provides excellent cuing and you can tell she is really having fun right along with you! I am not a dancer and this is my 1st attempt at Bollywood anything and I really enjoyed myself! Wore my weighted gloves & belt to up the intensity a bit. I received this dvd from Acacia to review.

Review: Top Trainers: Latin Sensations

Today's Review: Top Trainers: Latin Sensations
Susan Tuttle, 2010

This dvd has two 25ish minute Latin dance workouts on it. The menu also offers an intro & a c/d that you can play all or select a workout. Susan works out w/ 5 b/g exercisers in a cool set w/ a nice sunset painted background. One b/ger shows beginner modifications. You will not need any props for this workout. The music is Latin themed and nice & upbeat. Each song has its own little dance routine so there is very little TIFTing.

Workout 1: Moves include- V step w/ hip shakes, shuffle step w/ arm rolls, shimmy, hoola hoop, merenge, mambo chacha, circle step, hip shakes, kick ball change, tango, etc.

Workout 2: This workout incorporates the core into your dance moves. Moves include: knee pulls, ham curls, V steps, pivot, travel salsa, torso twist, twist & step, mambo triple step, twist & knee pull, double fist pump w/ a cardio lunge, hop out, hip & heel-toe, single & double hip shifts, etc.

I would rate these w/o's beginner in intensity and maybe high beginner in complexity- I had no trouble catching onto the moves. I wore my weighted gloves & belt to up the intensity and enjoyed myself. Susan is a great lead- she has an upbeat personality and her cuing was spot on! I would recommend this dvd for beginners or to anyone who likes to dance to use for a lower key workout. I had fun "shaking it" with Susan and crew!

Joy Bauer's Slimdown Workout

Joy Bauer's Slimdown Workout

Lisa Wheeler, 2010

Joy Bauer works out beside Lisa Wheeler, who actually leads this workout in a large open room with pillars. The dvd has two 20 min w/o's and a 5 min warmup and 5 min cooldown. You can play all or select a portion if you are short on time. Workout 1 requires no equipment (I used weights) and workout 2 utilizes dumbbells.

Workout One: Lisa & Joy alternate cardio and strength moves such as: side lunges, grapevine boogie, curtsy dip, pushups, planks, bridges, and crunches. Lisa adds in balance moves & ups the cardio intensity to keep your body guessing & to push you that much harder. I rate this workout beginner- but you can easily use dumbbells to up the strength work.

Workout Two:  This w/o is structured like w/o in that you alternate cardio & strength, and adds in balance challenges & cardio intensifiers. Moves include: tri kick back w/ toe tap, step kick w/ hop, upright row & pliet, planks, crunches, pec fly & bridges, 1 legged tri dips, squat with clean & press, low back work, lat row -knee drop, ham curls, etc. I rate this workout intermediate.

While some of the moves are compound- the poundage (in w/o 2) is always appropriate for both moves. The other moves allowed me to heavy up, but were at a quick enough pace to get my heart rate up- (using heavy dumbbells helps up the HR too). If you wanted to kick this up a notch: up your poundage, do the higher impact mods from the get go, add weights to w/o 1, etc. I liked the flow of this workout and found (w/o 2 in particular) solid. This is a great dvd for a beginner: master w/o one and then move up and work on workout 2. I received this dvd from Acacia for review.

GIVEAWAY: Martial Fusion Rockin' Body

This giveaway is now over. Please check out other Fitness For The Rest of Us giveaways by clicking on the "giveaways" tab on my left sidebar.

This giveaway is courtesy of Guillermo Gomez' Martial Fusion. They have generously donated Martial Fusion Rockin' Body for my review & giveaway to my wonderful blog readers. This was my first time working out with Guillermo and I was IMPRESSED! What a fun, sweaty workout! I cant wait to try his other Martial Fusion workouts.

Today's Review: Marial Fusion Rockin' Body
Guillermo Gomez, 2010

This is a 65 minute DVR led by Guillermo with 8 b/g exercisers. The w/o really gave me a "live class" vibe and the set looks like a real gym w/ his logo in the background. The cardio portion of the w/o is 45 minutes and there is a 10 minute "Toning & Abs" section (includes a learn the moves tutorial), and a 10 minute "Yoga Stretch & Relaxation" section. You wont need any props for this w/o but I wore weighted gloves :) You can play all or choose the segment you want to do, no mix & match option.

The 45 min cardio section starts with a nice active w/u with lots of upper body movements to get your UB ready for all those punches, followed by a quick stretch. The body of the workout is comprised of four main blocks, which you learn individually and then he adds them together. By the end, you have learned a nice little cardio kickboxing routine.

Some of the moves include: various punches & punch combos, knee strikes, bob and weave, shuffle, V step, jacks, speed bag, jumproping, and step touches. He combines kickboxing moves with some floor cardio moves to keep the workout interesting and to keep your heartrate up. The workout flows very well and the time flew by.

The Toning & Abs section starts with Guillermo showing us how to properly execute the kickboxing moves and ends with some great floor ab work including leg exenstions and bicycle abs. The Yoga, Stretch, & Relaxation section is a nice mellow yoga inspired stretch segment that was quite relaxing and concluded the workout nicely.

I really enjoyed this workout and will definatly be doing it many times to come. I rate this an intermediate cardio workout. I LOVE that the moves are easy to follow along to but not boring at all. Its hard to find a balance of interesting yet not overly complicated moves and Guillermo has nailed it here! I amped the intensity up a bit by adding some more impact and wearing my weighted gloves and my heart was PUMPING during this w/o! Guillermo's cuieing was spot on and he has a great energy! I would LOVE to take a live class with him and look forward to trying some of his other workouts.

Want to try this workout for yourself? Head on over to his Martial Fusion website and pick yourself up a copy! Want to win a copy? Enter here:

Mandatory Entry: Head on over to the Martial Fusion website and tell me which (other) dvd you most want to try along with your email address. And remember two entries = two comments so leave seperate comments for each entry. For example- you would leave 10 seperate comments for purchasing something. DONT FORGET YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS- IF I CANT CONTACT YOU, YOU CANT WIN :(

Optional Entries (after completing the mandatory entry above):

• 10 Entries: Purchase something from Martial Fusion THIS WEEK and tell me what you bought
• 1 Entry: Like Martial Fusion on facebook
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• 1 Entry: Follow my blog. Already a follower? Just leave a comment saying so
• 5 Entries: Re-blog about this giveaway and leave a link (leave 5 comments) 
• 1 Entry: Leave me a comment telling what you like about the workout (review above)
• 1 Entry: Follow Martial Fusion on twitter
• 1 Per Tweet: Tweet about this giveaway w/ a link to my blog (up to 1X per day)
• 1 Entry: Follow me on twitter
• 1 Entry per giveaway: Enter any of my other current giveaways here.
• 1 Entry per giveaway: Enter any of the Win, Lose, or Blog giveaways (Bondi Bands here, Fruit of the Looom $30 prize pack here)
• 1 Entry: Check out their website and tell me something you learned

Entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on 2/18 and the winner will be selected using random.org random number generator and announced on 2/19. The winner will be selected using random.org random number generator.. Contest open to EVERYONE!

I received a sample of this product to review. I was in no other way compensated for my honest review. All thoughts and ideas expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.  I can not be held responsible for shipping errors, postage errors, damage in transit, or undelivered prizes.