Tamilee's Defy Gravity: Metabolism Jumpstart & Fat Free Cardio

Viewers hoping to keep those steel buns from looking like half-baked bread rolls as they hit the big 4-0 and beyond will appreciate this age-defying two-part program--incorporating both an aerobic routine and a tres cool resistance-training workout--from familiar Buns of Steel laureate Tamilee Webb. The cardio section consists of two (approximately 20 minutes each) fairly routine and repetitious sequences of marches, box steps, and mambos, followed by squats, leg lifts, and lunges. Since the second half of the program requires a resistance band (included, but probably gone after one circulation), libraries should make a note on the box, but the workout itself is great. Webb exercises the legs by placing the sports band around each ankle and simply moving them from side to side…it sounds easy, but your thighs, hips, and bum will shape up or die. Webb also works the upper body using the sports band very effectively and concludes with a Pilates finale. The accompanying booklet--written by Debra Waterhouse, author of Outsmarting the Female Fat Cell--is a nifty little pamphlet that describes strategies to help counteract the slowing of the body's metabolism, and includes a seven-day menu plan. Extras include the two short bonus workouts “Yoga Stretch” and “Abdominal Core,” a music-only option, and a pointless Tamilee photo gallery. Recommended, overall. Aud: P. (N. Plympton)