Customer Reviews

Reebok Versa: Dance Step [VHS]

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(9)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

This video is really fast and really fun. Although it gets my pulse going, I have to admit it isn't a very strong workout. It is very short and there are no sit-ups or push-ups at the end (I usually add them myself). The steps don't repeat as much as other videos which means you don't feel your muscles burn. The workout is more complex than the original Reebok step workout, but I picked it up after 4 or 5 times and it's much more interesting. I do this tape a lot and use it to motivate me on days I am looking for an excuse not to exercise; no time, it only takes 25 minutes, not enough energy, it's a really easy work-out. I like Petra's personality and the two people who work out behind her are nice to watch. The music is MUCH better than the original Reebok step video. I wouldn't recommend this tape as a first step tape, because the steps are more complicated and it doesn't show what an intense low-impact workout step can be, but I do think it's a great addition to the original Reebok step aerobic tape.

I had a hard time following her at first...and that accent was driving me nuts...and the background scene is annoying. But after doing it a couple of times its definately fun...but I wish it was LONGER. If you are more advanced its a good warm up. But if you like doing step you will probably like this. PERSONALLY I wish more videos on step were out there - I love doing step. Its a super fun workout.

I have had this video for years and every time I attempt to master it I once again put it up in frustration. I have several different step and non-step aerobic tapes and this by far is the most frustrating and difficult to follow. Granted I'm not a "dancer," but I am athletic and the time and effort to learn the sequences in this tape are ridiculous. The arm and leg movements are not intuitive and by the time you think you have it, she's doing something else. Didn't intend to "flame" here, but I just saw too many positive reviews for this step-aerobic video.

Man, oh, man...I wish the sound was better in this video because the music is nice and funky and I'd love to turn it up! But, alas, after purchasing one video, and getting one as a gift, the simple fact is that the sound quality just isn't the best. (and its not just my tape or my stereo) HOWEVER - don't let that get in the way of a fun workout! The choreography in this one is what makes it a kick to do. I'm used to Kathy Smiths "military" style aerobics, where every move is predictable yet effective. But Petra delivers a workout with some "attitude" and some funky dance moves thrown in to make it interesting. She teaches you three segments and at the end incorporates them into one single routine. Watch the other steppers for ideas on how to make the choreography more individualized. Or as Petra says, "Make this as funky or as elegant as you like"... This is a short but powerful workout, with a very quick warm-up and almost non-existant cool-down. But that makes it perfect on the days you're pressed for time and still want to sweat and feel good. If it weren't for the sound quality, I would've rated this with 5 stars...

I loved this video a lot! Petra Kolber is my favorite aerobics instructor because she embellishes basic aerobics moves with jazzy and funky flavor. Her choreography makes me look forward to working out every single second of the video. Her moves are very inspiring and for me, she's the best! Keep up the excellent work Petra!

I have done many step programs. This one definitely got my heart rate going, however, it will take several views before I can get all of the footwork and arm movements. The program is short (about 1/2 hour), so its great for a quick workout.

** I believe this is the perfect blend of dance and step-aerobics.

** It is short, about 4-min. warm-up, 20-min. workout, 4-min. cool-down.

** For an intermediate exerciser and stepper, it keeps my heart rate up, not pounding hard but up, and muscles challenged.

** The instructor, Petra is upbeat, motivating without being too much of a cheerleader. She pretty much smiles and gives directions. She does cue well e.g. "Okay, now we're going to go over the board and then walk around it to the right."

** What's really unique about this video is the background. It begins with Petra saying " I believe that it is true that we are going back to the mind and body." In the back of her and the two other people is a board that flashes pictures of the ocean, forest, Da-Vinci-like pics of the body, oriental letters, and words & phrases like "Visualize", "Release the ego", and "Step out of your own way." It may seem minor, but for me the background keeps it interesting. I can appreciate art and read literature and exercise too.

Pressed for time? This is the work out for you. Petra's choreography is fun -- and the right level of difficulty -- and gives you a great cardio work out. The best option if you only have 30 minutes, and want to squeeze in a work out. PLUS: if you're looking to boost your cardio fitness level, you can rotate this workout between your longer ones, and increase the step height. This will give your body time to adjust gradually and safely to the challenge of a higher step. Don't hesitate!

Only a few moves in this video really qualify as dance steps, and they're over before you know it. Nevertheless, this is a fun video, the steps are pretty easy to learn, and they're repeated enough that you can learn them after one or two tries. The music is upbeat, there's an artsy video backdrop, and the people stepping with Petra seem very enthusiastic. It's a bit short, but great for days when you don't feel like a long, strenuous workout. Sometimes the instructor is a bit condescending, and I hate it when she says, during the leg stretches, "we call this the hamstring muscle". Well, duh!

I really enjoy this workout on days when I am pressed for time or feeling very tired. The entire workout is about 30 minutes long--5 min warm-up, 20 minute step workout, and 5 minute cool down and stretch. I am not at all coordinated, so if I can catch onto the steps anyone can! Petra Kolber starts with basic step moves and then adds some spice and some intensity. I also like the fact that she encourages you to do what feels comfortable to you. The music is so-so but not at all intrusive or annoying. The only thing that I really don't like about the video is that many of the arm movements feel unnatural with the leg movements. They just seem like they don't go together well and are awkward to do. Otherwise, I really enjoy this video.