"I like this DVD because this type of dance offers a freedom of movement that is rare in other dance forms such as ballet. However, I am looking for a cardio workout and while it does somewhat get your heartrate up, Kukuwa, the dance instructor, stops every five minutes to slap hands with the background dancers or the logo for the company comes on the screen. I usually march through these distracting intervals, but these interruptions do not allow for constant cardio.
It is sometimes discouraging that the instructor does not give any direction. By the time she tells you to do something she is already doing it. However, this was not enough to deter me from doing the workouts.
This is an excellent value because three different workouts are included, one is 30 min, 45 min and 60 min. This offers great variety. The set is poolside, and there are men of women of different ages and races helping the instructor do the workout.
The moves include a lot of jumping, so be warned if you don't like doing high impact exercises or have bad knees or ankles. It also requires some space, more than I have in my dorm room, because of all the travelling moves. Occassionally, one of the women on the left shows a modified, lower-impact version of the exercises, but this is rare. Kukuwa constantly encourages you to shake your bunkie (your bum) and to just have fun. I don't think I could ever do this workout if people were watching me.
If you stick with, and aren't afraid to try something new you will enjoy this workout. You will definitely sweat with this one.
"
Fast Paced Repetitive Dance Cardio
Lena, LMT | Nassau, NY | 12/15/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"If you like workouts where they don't stop, this is for you. There are three workouts, the first is 30 min, the second is 45 min & the third is 60 min. It's the woman in the picture with 3 girls & 2 guys (all athletic) behind her on what looks like a mansion's backyard w/a pool & palm trees behind. The music is semi decent for a workout video, no lyrics, just music w/a good fast beat that has a Caribbean feel.
She doesn't give that many dance instruction, out of the entire DVD, she only 1-2x ever slows down or counts. One or more dancers will show the modified/slower version of the moves, sometimes out of tiredness themselves, they start dropping, though I can't blame them, LOL.
All the moves are relatively simple, mostly cha-chas, merenges & simple African moves, steps, mambos, jumps, etc. If there's anything she thinks is a little harder, she breaks it down, but she is always moving.
The first workout was very simple & though fast, the moves were uninspiring, more aerobics then dance & I didn't like it.
The second & third had better moves that you've seen around at gyms or clubs, etc. more sexy & cool then the 1st, but nothing that hip.
I was sweating & could not keep up at all for the life of me. If you want to sweat & pass out, here you go!
Take off 2 stars if you expect complicated or stylish moves, non-repetition or great music.
Video clips on youtube & beyou.tv"
Very good intermediate cardio workout
Nova Saulli | USA | 02/26/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"What I like most about this workout is that there is the option to try a 30, 45, or 60 minute routine. The 30 minute segment is too easy for a non-beginner, but the 45 and 60 minute routine gets your heart rate up. At times, the moves are a little repetitive, but what's great is that if you are a fast learner, Kukawa "keeps it moving..." she doesn't slow down to over-explain the moves. I like that because a lot of DVDs take too much time showing how to perform relatively simple moves. Also, I like how the performers were not "Hollywood Hotties," but just regular looking people. The last thing I want to look at when I'm working out are several pairs of silicone implants! The music would've been better if it were live, and I would've liked to hear a little "cultural" explanation of where some of the moves derived from. Overall-- a great DVD to add to your repertoire."
My Jeans FIT!
Ducky17 | Boston, MA | 05/22/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This DVD is fabulous. I hate to exercise, but this is more like going to a club in New York City. The instructor is so funny, I had a blast doing this workout and now my favorite jeans fit once again.
In my collection of workout programs, this one won't sit around collecting dust. Little pain, lots of gain.
Join the party."
Outstanding way to do cardio for those with dance background
E. C. Noebel | California | 09/08/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I disagree with the reviewer who said the instructor slowed down too much, doing high fives and the frequent interruptions. Everybody knows if you don't want to stop moving, you run in place or jump rope. Or get water or wipe the sweat off your face. Not hard to figure out.
In terms of the workout, cueing could be better, however, it is a DVD and rewind is always an option. It is presupposed with ownership of the DVD that you will do this more than once and, therefore, you will pick up the moves.
This DVD dovetails nicely with other types of dance instruction, including W. African and Latin/Caribbean. I like the music. It is really one heck of a workout....sweat, sweat, sweat, and the movement IS constant. She does a good job of addressing the core with fun moves that don't really feel like hard work until you wake up the next day.
I have an excellent W. dance background (ballet mostly) and find this to be a very challenging routine, have done it more than half a dozen times and am still mastering the moves for segment one. This is exactly what I need to keep it fun and challenging. However, I also take W. African dance twice a week in my local community, as well as samba, so maybe this tape will not resonate with folks who aren't 'into' the moves or music of Africa.
An excellent purchase, IMHO. FANTASTIC instructor!!!!!!!"