Work Out with Sonny and Pedro

At first glance an exercise video for people with intellectual disabilities might seem odd. After all, in the words of Sandra Kaufman's book title, Retarded Isn't Stupid, so why would these teens and adults need a separate workout? But then I realized that just as Richard Simmons is popular because his videos feature “real people” instead of skinny/buff fitness freaks, Work Out with Sonny and Pedro also serves as a reminder that fitness is for everyone. Nine routines are presented here, each with warm-ups and cool-downs, employing a variety of methods, including walking workouts, flexibility training, and dance aerobics, demonstrated by people of all shapes and sizes. In fact, this is a great workout for any beginner (no matter their IQ), although it's a shame that the animated Sonny and Pedro—who introduce the workouts—receive top billing, since the human host (unfortunately not credited on the DVD packaging) does all the work: leading, demonstrating, encouraging, and gently correcting technique as needed. Highly recommended. [Note: this title is also available in the three-disc set Walk Your Way to Fitness, priced at $60, which also includes a second DVD on fitness and a CD-ROM activity book.] Aud: J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)