Tracie Long—Focus Series: Kickback

Instructor Tracie Long jumps right into the workout in this volume from her Focus series. Suggesting both light and medium-to-heavier weights (Long tells viewers when to “heavy up” during the routine), Kickback starts off with a cardio interval that includes slow jabs/squat sequences, upper cuts, hooks, rowing, cross-block, and a “jab and jack” combo. The lower-body weight training segment features moves such as sidekicks, pulses, plies, side lunges, and step-squats; and the matwork floor section presents ab-focused moves, along with side plank, push ups, and hip-presses, plus straddle stretching at the close. While the dance-y, club-ish soundtrack doesn't altogether mesh with the tempo of the moves, this workout could burn calories and improve balance. Other titles in the Focus series include Lift Higher and Power Up. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)