Jane Fonda's Step and Stretch Workout [VHS]

Four of Jane Fonda's instructors take turns presenting an energetic 45-minute, moderate-intensity step workout. The frequent switching of instructors adds variety and interest, and the different teaching styles keep the workout feeling fresh. The choreography starts out very simple, and as the workout progresses, so do the moves, although the patterns never get terribly complicated. Each pattern is taught clearly, practicing the base moves before adding on arms, styling, or intensity. The cueing is excellent. Occasionally one of the participants demonstrates lower-intensity modifications in case you get tired or need to adapt a move for your fitness level; another shows how to raise the intensity for more experienced steppers. After the step workout, Fonda herself leads a relaxing 15-minute stretch--no extreme flexibility required. She repeats stretches, because you can take a stretch deeper if you do it more than once. This is an excellent tape for an intermediate exerciser with some step experience who wants an effective, enjoyable workout and a nice, long stretch. --Joan Price