Thurs - PowerFit/Debra Mazda Step

[Guest guest]

Hi Everyone,

Today was Back, Biceps and Thighs from PowerFit. I liked it but tweaked my neck/trapezius muscle on the reverse flies. That is the problem for me with bands - sometimes it restricts range of motion too much. But, I think it will be ok in a day or two. The rest of the workout I liked - the floorwork for inner/outer thighs with the band was nice. Now that I have completed the set for this week, I would rate these more on a beginner level, but with the possibility of increasing the intensity by using heavier bands, doing more reps and/or using weights sometimes in place of the bands. It is definately a good set for a recovery week, for returning to exercise after injury or illness, for fitting in workouts on a tough schedule, for beginners and for travel workouts. is producing more of these types of workouts and the rumor is they will be available on QVC for a good price (under $30) according to

VF. I would definatley get more of them - for the reasons I noted! And, if we do travel this summer, these will be coming with me for quick hotel room workouts.

After 's workout I did Debra Mazda's Let's Get Stepping Workout which is a nice basic step routine. I definately enjoyed this one. THe intensity was not killer. Very basic step choreography - nothing tricky. If you are an experienced stepper or a more advanced exerciser, you can do this one on an 8 inch step. I used 6 b/c I haven't stepped in awhile. Debra cues well. The music is lively and better than a lot of workouts out there! Her backgrounders are all plus size women who show different modifications - one leaves out arm movements, one is using an 8 inch step, one is using just the step, no risers. Debra is encouraging and motivating. If you are used to Cathe's or Amy's step workouts you may find this one boring or too easy, but for me it was good. when the choreo gets crazy I tend to lose focus on my form and then I tweak my back. This one was basic enough so

that I could focus on my form - sort of like a on the step. I liked this one better than the walking workout b/c it was more intense. The DVD also includes a tutorial (for those really new to step), a bonus toning section, and a motivation section where Debra and her backgrounders discuss weight loss and exercise. overall, I'd recommend this for beginner to intermediates who like basic step choreography and lively music! THis one is a keeper for me.

Hope everyone has a good day - today will be a busy one for me - working at home for the morning, then field trip this afternoon, then back home, then off to a hair appointment. In between I'd like to get a couple of loads of laundry done to stay ahead of the curve!

Take care,

Donna