Average Rating: 
Rating:  - An exceptional instructional video
I am a total novice when it comes to strength training. When I decided it was time to start lifting weights, I went out looking for a video I could use with ease. After buying, and not being able to keep up with, videos by Karen Voight and The Firm, I came across "Shaping Up With Weights for Dummies".I have to admit, this tape is a God send for someone such as myself. The instructor, Tracy York, was a good choice for this tape. Tracy, like the exercises themselves, is understated yet effective. Tracy talks non-stop throughout the video explaining in great depth how to execute each move properly and which muscles are impacted by the move. Without being too peppy, she explains strength training jargon and subtly encourages the viewer to hang in there through the burn. There are 12 exercises in total. They are all moves you would be familiar with--squats, lunges, bicep curls, crunches, push-ups, etc etc. Both the lower and upper body get attention. Each exercise is done in two sets of 12 reps. You may think basic moves done in two sets may seem too simple. (I did.) But after the first few times I did this video, I was a bit sore the next day. There is also just as much attention paid to stretching after each set as there is given to performing the set itself. Like with the "for Dummies" books, this video includes little extras. Each move shows a brief split screen showing how to modify the move to either make it easier or more challenging. There are also quick blurbs that pop up as the viewer is doing the sets offering good form reminders, common-sense health tips and fitness myths demystified. Overall, I believe, this is an excellent tape for the beginner who needs to build up proper form and skill. However, this tape does have it's flaws. While the thorough explanations of each move are essential, the long-winded verbal instruction gets really annoying really fast. After the first few times, and after I had grasped everything Tracy was saying, I found myself jogging in place for a good 2-3 minutes and getting really impatient while I waited for her to move on to the next move. There is just too much chatter in between exercises. Once you get through establishing proper form, and once you get through doing one or two practice reps, the set begins and progresses rather quickly. This waiting and waiting between sets and then rushing through the sets leaves the workout feeling completely disjointed and lacking in flow. Because the workout is so basic, I can easily see myself, after I memorize each move, doing this workout on my own and at my own pace without the video. And this goal allows me to forgive all that is lacking with this video. It does effectively teach all that one needs to get started in strength training. I couldn't ask for anything more. As an instructional video, it is exceptional. As a workout video, it is lacking.
Rating: - Highly educational!
I wanted to incorporate weight training into my weight loss adventure but had no clue how to do that. I have read no books or anything on the subject. This video gives the basics that you need to get started and works at a slow pace so you can keep up. Tracy is motivating without being too peppy and pushy. I have been using this video twice a week for several weeks and can already tell a difference in my body and the way I move. Certain every day movements I used to find difficult are becoming much easier. If you're looking for something for beginners that won't make you feel like a loser, this is the video for you. It's excellent!
Rating: - Excellent program for beginners
This video is an excellent guide to beginning weight lifting. The instructor explains various exercises and the importance of proper positioning during the exercises. There is plenty of time between exercises for setup and the exercises selected involve all the main muscle groups. I've used this program for three months and have definitely noticed results.
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