 |
|
| Self - Your Best Butt Fast | |
| Koch Entertainment // Unrated // $14.98 // October 4, 2005 | |
|
|
| Review by Lacey Worrell | posted November 23, 2005 |
|
You have to love a title that gets right down to the point, as does Shape: Your Best Butt Fast. What else is there to say? Viewers know exactly what to expect from a title like this: an efficient workout that will maximize results when it comes to shaping the gluteus maximus, hopefully turning it into a gluteus minimus in short order.
Host Violet begins with plenty of advice and an introduction to basic yoga. The workout is fast paced and for the most part, low-impact. There are simulated kickboxing, jump rope, and yoga moves that are varied enough to keep the interest level high. The boppy, pseudo-techno music leaves something to be desired, so you may want to turn up the stereo or listen to headphones, however this means that listening to Violet's often helpful instructions is impossible.
One great aspect about the Self video series is the location. As someone who finds herself incredibly bored by exercise, participating in an exercise DVD that takes itself outside of the typical gym or studio is a much more pleasant experience. Another feature this collection emphasizes is women with real bodies; they are very toned, but they look healthy rather than too thin, and realistic rather than silicone-filled.
Violet promises that regular workouts will result in noticeable improvements within about 4 weeks. I recommend viewing the "Tips" section first, which comes at the end of the DVD; this section gives vital advice about correct form and posture in order to minimize injury.
Keep in mind, hand weights and a mat are required for some of the exercises.
The DVD
Video:
The high quality of the video is a pleasant surprise, considering the fact that many exercise videos come across as low-budget, with grainy pictures. The picture and colors are sharp and clear.
Sound:
Compared to a feature film, sound quality may seem to be less important on an exercise DVD, but remember, it is necessary to listen to what the instructor is saying. There are no particular flaws in the sound, however it does not enhance the overall experience either. Of course, if you are like me, 10 minutes into the DVD, the sound of wheezing in your ears as you huff and puff along to the workout will quickly drown everything else out anyway!
Extras:
There are no included extras, but viewers may appreciate the fact that individual scene selections allow them to skip directly to a favorite workout. This is a real bonus for those who remember the Tae-Bo VHS tapes, where fast-forwarding was an unwelcome distraction from the workout. DVD technology is an amazing thing, my friend.
Final Thoughts:
The DVDs in the Self collection are a sound investment. The workout routines are easy to follow, they are challenging without being too intense, and the instructors' genuine and encouraging natures are motivating. In the glut of workout DVDs on the current market, the Self series stands out as one of the best in terms of overall quality.