time to get macho

as my new workout DVD idol says.

So after learning that I use Dancing with the Stars cardio DVDs when I want to exercise, Bunny lent me a few of the many DVDs in her house. She chose Core Rhythms, an exercise program that also uses Latin dancing to trim the waistline. Now this is what Dancing with the Stars could have been!

Julia and Anna... almost every Russian or Ukrainian girl I've ever known is named Julia
(sometimes Yulia) or Anna. The others are all Olgas.

After getting over the gaudy workout gear I grew to really appreciate Core Rhythms. I like the different camera angles - you can change it to view the workout from the front, the back (so you don't have to think too hard when they say left but move their right knee,) the "core" or the ab cam, and a split view of the front and core. I also like how they explain how you should be moving because it really helps with the form and technique. And I love their exclamations: "Flex that muscle! Show me your macho muscles!"

I'll try!

I found the first DVD, the quickstart, to be very easy. They taught you the 3 main moves of the entire program and helped you move around while doing hip flexions or lateral movements. But then I popped in the next DVD, the quick workout, and phew! I was sweating in almost no time. I know the challenge and change of workout is good as I am pretty accustomed to my other DVDs. But let me tell you, when Julia and Anna say that this is a quick workout, they mean that they move very quickly.

4 DVDs, 4 times the difficulty!

Something to watch: the "o" in Core Rhythms pulses to the beat of the music. Helps you stay on tempo.