Quick Fix - Stability Ball Workout Reviews

• great for beginners-too short/easy for the more advanced

  
  By A14B9D2O6Y374H on 2003-03-31
  while I did enjoy this workout-a lot of focus was put on executing the exercises and proper positioning on the ball which is key for everyone novice or experienced-I found just doing a single segment at a time was ineffective but the geat aspect about dvd is that you can do all three in a row-very effective or do 2 of one type, 3 of another ect.Overall a good purchase, I have over 50 exercise dvds and movies-not sorry I bought this one!
  
  

• Great Quick Workouts

  
  By A26KYDJOAGI05S on 2003-06-30
  These workouts are fast and effective. They are only for toning, so I usually add one or two to a cardio workout. There are many creative uses of the stability ball in all of these workouts, and the instructor moves through the exercises quickly and gets a lot done in 10 minutes. The upper body segments requires heavy and light weights thought I found using five pound weights for both effective especially the first few times. Some of the exercises are difficult the first time, but there are alternatives for beginners. A lot of the exercises in all the workouts require good balance and core stability.
  
  

• Perfect!...almost

  
  By A102HQ38U10PPZ on 2006-06-22
  Doctors recommend three 10-minute strength workouts a week, and this video provides just that. The workouts are challenging and thorough (addressing all muscle groups in the target area), without actually killing you. The stability ball is perfect for those who, like me, have a very sensitive back that can't handle Pilates or other mat exercises. The presentation is not hokey, fake, cheerleader, or in any other way insulting - just calmly assuring and relaxing. I am surprised and disappointed when the 10 minutes are up - but my muscles are relieved!
  
  I say "almost" perfect because there is no warm-up or cool-down on the DVD. I need to jog my memory for stretches and walk my dogs for warm-up/cool-down. I'd love some great stretches to complete the DVD.
  
  

• Nice Change to the Typical Workout

  
  By on 2003-10-13
  This 30 minute workout is broken out into three, 10 minute segments that target first the lower body, then the upper body and lastly, the abs. The upper body portion is done using two sets of dumbbells; I used 5 and 8 lbs. You can choose to do one, two or all three segments. When I previewed this workout, I thought it might be too easy for me, an intermediate level exerciser. Well, I just finished it, and I am whipped. I was sweating after the first segment and was so motivated that I completed the other two segments as well. There is an exercise done in the lower body segment that really worked my hamstrings. This is my first stability ball workout, and I recommend it.
  
  

• The best of six ball workouts I've tried.

  
  By AHOGIS6S7RR37 on 2005-04-02
  Enjoyable and effective workout for the whole body, especially the core muscles. I have a bad back, so I do the 10-minute session on back & abs every morning plus a few push-ups and bridges with the ball. Two or three times a week I fit in the whole 30-minute workout, with 5- & 8-lb weights.
  
  To be safe I went through it with my physical therapist and he was impressed at the well-thought out working of all the major muscle groups without anything harmful (although he did recommend doing some sections at a slower pace, and not lifting your arms too high on the side weight lift).
  
  A couple of modifications I like that I got off of other tapes:
  --In the Back & Abs section: For the back extensions, try bracing your feet against a door or wall. You can work your back more effectively if your feet are securely braced instead of sliding along the floor. (I don't have a yoga mat; maybe they give you a better grip than carpet or linoleum but the door method sure works for me.)
  --In the Lower Body section: Instead of doing the single-leg bridge exercizes (which put a lot of strain behind my knees) I do a set with the ball close up to my knees instead of under my heels. And then a set with my legs bent and the soles of my feet planted against the ball instead of the floor. Each set works different muscles and works my spine in a different way, which feels great to my bad back.
  
  I tried two Gaiam tapes at the local gym (which I thought were totally worthless), then bought this one and three others, but this is the one that's Just Right and almost the only one I ever actually use! Nothing in it is a problem for my back, no time is wasted, it's not too hard but since you control how you do each exercize it's a good resistance workout whatever your fitness level, the pace is great...and the price is right! You can't beat it.
  
  
• Awesome
  By A211GMD2G99RX3 on 2004-01-29
  I love this workout. It moves very quickly, but I found it quite challenging. I bought my stability ball with the Gaiam videos featuring Suzanne Deason, and I didn't like those at all--they seemed very slow to me, and not very challenging. I wanted to get more out of my ball, so I tried this one. Much better! Keli is a great instructor; no unnecessary chipperiness. I can feel my balance and strength improving each time I do it. My only complaint is that there is no stretching at the end of the segments, so you'll have to do those on your own. The use of the stability ball as a weight bench during the upper body is brilliant--you get much more out of your dumbbells when you're also focusing on balance.
  
  
• Just what I was looking for
  By A1ASQZID1IZT95 on 2006-06-26
  I've tried a couple other DVD's and a book and didn't really feel I was getting good use of my exercise ball. This one was just what I was looking for. The format of having 3 separate workouts of 10 minute length provides some nice flexibility. Also, having variations for me as a beginner was nice so that I am not getting frustrated since I can't do the hard stuff yet. The upper body workout requires some small weights (10 lb. and under works), and since I already had those, it worked out well.
  
  If you are looking for a solid workout that will make you sweat while working all your muscles effectively...this one is it.
  
  
• Excellent Stability Ball Workout for Beginners AND those Pressed for Time...
  By AM8J1UVGVYAL4 on 2006-01-08
  This is a GREAT Stability Ball workout DVD for beginners and those pressed for time. Keli Roberts is a really good instructor. She emphasizes proper form when doing the exercises.
  
  The workouts are divided into 3 10-minute sessions (lower body, arms & back, and abs). You can do all 3 for a good overall toning workout, or just the sessions you like if you are in a hurry or just want to concentrate on a particular part of your body. This is NOT a cardio workout...strictly toning.
  
  All of the exercises are fairly easy and simple to do, yet extremely effective. If you haven't worked out in awhile, you will feel it the next day.
  
  Keli Roberts is a GREAT instructor and this is an EXCELLENT stability ball workout DVD. Just keep in mind that there is no cardio in this DVD, the 3 sessions are only 10 minutes each (with a countdown counter on screen), and you will need a stability ball and hand weights.
  
  
• busy mother of 3
  By on 2004-06-24
  Great DVD, highly recommend it. If you can't get away to a gym to workout, this is a great alternative, inexpensive, low tech, very doable for a middleage woman trying to get back in shape. I can do this on the basement floor while the kids play! The exercises offer two levels so if it's too hard you can do the easier version. Very pleasant leader, very encouraging, not a "fluff" or scantily clad kind of female but very atheletic and also middle age. I'm already noticing good results in 1 weeks use so give it a try!!!
  
  
• Get on the ball!
  By AZC1748UTCTXM on 2005-04-07
  Using a ball is an effective way to do exercises that otherwise put a lot of stress on your joints when done on the floor. The reviewer who said that this is a waste of time has obviously not done the exercises properly. It is also not accurate to say that someone would have to be very unhealthy in order to sweat. Just because you don't sweat, doesn't mean you are not working hard. I work out all the time, and still feel challenged when using the ball. I have used stability balls in exercise classes, and most people also agree that they are very useful. Using a ball takes the weight off your joints, which allows you to focus on doing the exercises properly without hurting yourself. Having to stabilize your "core" also works the muscles harder. Don't be fooled at how easy it looks. Once you try it, you will notice your muscles working.
  
  
  
• Down to earth but too fast, too short.
  By A1R1Z44C7S1HQJ on 2005-05-28
  The positives -- Kelly Robins is so real; the other two in the DVD are real too. The viewer feels like she's at home when she works out with these women who could live right next door and not in Hollywood. Also it's awesome to watch the timer on the lower left corner tick down the minutes.
  However, they lift weights at a very quick pace. Professional trainers have told me (I wouldn't know) that lifting slowly increases effectiveness so... this might not be as effective.
  
  
• The Anti-Depressant!
  By AVCF4XY5PY3B on 2004-07-13
  I've been using this DVD for about three weeks now, when I don't feel like biking or walking, and I highly recommend it for people who have maybe had a little Pilates/yoga/weight work instruction and just want to come at it all from a different perspective. Make no mistake: Being on a ball doesn't make it easier! It makes you 'get real' about your posture and etc. Your muscles will bark back at you, especially on the lower body segment, but you'll feel pleased and proud when you complete it. The instructions are compassionate; the 'instructresses' are cheery and motivating. The background music doesn't sound like something from a (...) movie. And it's all over in a half-hour! If nothing else, this video will coax you out of a bad mood -- and maybe, after time, into a smaller pair of pants!
  
  
• Very basic
  By A2L4TVG0MOWTWS on 2006-03-31
  Not a bad video, but extremely easy. I am not in great shape and it doesn't really challenge me. But if you are really just starting to work out, it might be a good video to try.
  
  
• For the girls, not the boys
  By A161YP253VHLZ7 on 2004-06-02
  Not a bad little disc, three workouts, but I only do the third one. Our instructor has a nice little British accent, which is somehow refreshing. Also refreshing is that she is -yikes!- a little older. But, look at that tummy! And I appreciate having one of the three chicks doing modified versions (am I out of shape)! No, you won't sweat, but I'm old and cranky and this works for me. Oh, and I don't think you'll ever talk a man into doing those pelvic moves on that big ball, if you do, let me know.
  
  
• I just love this DVD!
  By A3DBNPEIWN3L44 on 2006-12-20
  I love this DVD. I bought it at the same time I bought my swiss ball, so I consider myself a "beginner" as far as fitness level with it. At first I could only do one of the three workouts at a time, but recently I have been able to do the whole DVD, although it is still difficult for me. I like the fact that the DVD gives you the choice to do the whole routine or choose which part of the body you want to target (upper body, lower body and abs/back). And because each part of the overall workout routine is only 10 minutes long, it really fits in with my crazy schedule. On the more technical side, it's easy to get to the workout menu (some workout DVDs have huge amounts of "junk" to get through before getting to the actual workout), the sound is good quality, and for those who need to see the modifications, they do an excellent job of that. The editing is also paced well and you have time to actually position yourself on the ball, floor, etc. to start the exercises with the DVD, rather than "catching up" like with some. All around a great DVD and a hard workout for beginners.
  
  
• Buy it do it now!
  By A27UNTLUIELCSM on 2006-02-10
  I completely loved this DVD. I don't really know what level I would classify myself at, I usually run about 2-3 miles to get my cardio in 4-5 times a week if that means anything. But I wanted to start toning a bit more so I got a stability ball for home and this workout. It is made up of three segments divided into ten minutes a piece, upper body, lower body, and abs. The abs section is a favorite of mine because you also work on your back which is ultra necessary if you are trying to shrink your middle. You never have to get down on the floor to do a single crunch, I love that! I loved this DVD because with all of my other DVD's that I have there is always a move or two that I hate but can't skip because I feel like I will miss targeting that area, for me it is the T-stands in all the pilates videos, I hate them and have a knee I dislocated last May so I can't really do them these days. But this video every exercise is effective and I don't dread a certain move. It is only 30 minutes but you will definately feel it the next day and a couple of the moves I am still doing the modifications hoping to work up to the advanced levels, so this can definately be used by everybody. The instructor is encouraging but not annoying and you change up the moves during the sets so you are always focusing on something besides what you are doing. For example, your third set of shoulder presses you start lifting opposite legs while sitting on the ball. I find myself concentrating so much on staying on the ball I forget my shoulders are burning. I have tried a ton of DVDs and this one I have really stuck to and enjoyed. Hope this helps and good luck!
  
  
• I like it.
  By on 2003-06-08
  This is a great workout. Since we need to vary our routines it is hard to find ball workouts that I really like doing. Plus I like the DVD because I can pick just one if I want.
  
  
• Great Post Natal Workout!
  By A2CEF79A2TSV4T on 2005-03-27
  I thought I'd give the stability ball workouts a try and I really enjoy this particular workout. This workout video is a great way to help you get back in shape after having a baby. Having had a baby three months ago, I was itching to get back into an exercise routine, especially since I was essentially housebound with little one in the cold weather. This is a great workout even if you're already in shape from running or biking, but need to work on core strengthening. I was in shape before my pregnancy and even though all was not lost in the 9 months, I still found it challenging.
  
  There are three focus areas in this video--the upper body, lower body, and abs. Each focus area is given a ten minute segment, giving you a 30 minute workout. All of the exercises focus on strengthening and core stability. There are no cardio exercises, so if that's what you're looking for, I recommend that you do this video as a supplement to walking, running, or some kind of other exercise that incorporates a cardio workout.
  
  The upper body workout requires you to use two sets of weights--one lighter set and one heavier set. Obviously you also need a stability ball for this workout. Although a yoga mat is nice, it is not a necessity.
  
  You can use the modification exercises at first if you're just starting to get in shape, but then overtime, you can do the exercises without the modificiations and start increasing the level of weights. Just like any workout video out there, what you put into it is what you get out of it. Its really up to you to challenge yourself in this workout once you master the exercises.
  
  This video is especially good for beginners and those looking for a great post-natal workout. I highly recommend this video!
  
  
  
• Simple Yet Effective
  By AY31G6X9U4LVO on 2005-12-18
  This was a great workout for me. I had been in physical therapy for about a month and was getting tired of all the stretching routines.
  
  I tried this workout and it was an easy, but not painful start to getting back to a regular exercise regimen.
  
  I actually felt better doing this workout than my PT exercises.
  
  
• OK fitness DVD, and dirt cheap
  By ARC5Z150B5JGM on 2006-02-16
  The price of the Quick Fix Stability Ball Workout can't be beat, but the DVD is average at best. The workout is 30 minutes long, divided into three 10-minute segments that cover arms and back, lower body, and abdominal area.
  
  The instructor does a fine job describing and executing the exercises with another girl doing the same moves, and there is another girl who demos easier versions. The production of the DVD is good as is the setting and music--what you would expect of any professional exercise DVD.
  
  I didn't care for the emphasis on how much time was remaining for each section. A countdown clock appears in the lower righthand corner, and although that is considered a feature for those who can't wait for the ten minutes to be over, I'm more of the type who doesn't want to keep track, does the routine, and before I even realize it, I'm done.
  
  Another peeve is that the exercises aren't creative or new. In fact, they are pretty conventional, and therefore, a bit boring if you already have some experience with ball routines.
  
  If you exercise to just do it and get it over with and you don't want to spend a lot of money, this would probably be a good buy. If you are looking for a DVD to complement your existing at-home or gym workouts, there are better ones out there.
  
  
• This is a great "quickie"
  By A2ULG0P6QH2G6D on 2006-03-25
  This is a great "quickie" video for when I only have 20 or 30 minutes to do a work-out. I have lots of longer videos, but very few short videos that actually use my stability ball. This is great for in the morning or a quick pick me up after work! Be sure to combine segments to get a good workout!
  
  
  
  
• IT WORKS!
  By A495MKUS3UR5J on 2006-08-18
  i love this work out! i have been thru so many and this one works for me. i have lost 35 lbs by implimenting this in my routine. i walk a mile everyday and then do the 10 minute routine that is for my abs (since that is my area i dont like). it took about 3 weeks for me to get it off and then i do it 3 times a week to keep it off!
  great investment!
  
  
• Another Quick Fix Winner
  By on 2004-06-25
  I own four Quick Fix DVD's and three are on regular rotation for my workouts (except the Yoga/Pilates, which stinks). This is a great workout that ensures I'll be sore the next day!
  
  
• Good introduction to stability ball work....
  By ATKVDKXO3Q6ZM on 2005-03-07
  I am new at ball work, this program is a good place to start. This DVD features Keli Roberts, who has been around a long time. She does a good job instructing in this video, very pleasant and has a neat accent. She has 2 other exercisers with her one of which performs the beginner modifications.
  
  This video is divided into three 10 minute segments, lower body, upper body and abs. You can choose to do one or all three of them depending on your schedule. The lower body segment does a good job targeting the hamstrings especially, but hits the inner thighs and rest of the legs and "backyard" as Keli refers to it as well. The upper body requires 2 sets of dumbells, lighter and heavier. You will work all the upper body muscles, shoulders, back, biceps, chest and triceps, some of which where you are lifting one arm and lifting the opposite leg. Good way to work on balance and core stability this way. Finally you work the abs and back, there is a set of reverse crunches at the end which are tough, I always have a fire in my abs after I am done with those.
  
  This is a good video for those new to ball work, like myself, some may feel it is too easy but it is the perfect level for me.
  
  
• Very Pleased
  By A13DGB4UXA4Y6K on 2006-01-30
  Previously I was working out to the Core Secrets dvd with Gunnar Peterson. I find that the Quick Fix Stability Ball workout is significantly more challenging. There is a great variety of different workouts that really engage the whole body. In the mornings, I usually do two of the workouts for 20 minutes. If I'm running late, I just do one ten minute segment, and that helps me to stick to my routine, otherwise, I would just skip working out altogether. Whether separate or together, anyone will find these workouts challenging, effective, and they hold your interest.
  
  
• Fun, Quick, and Effective!
  By on 2004-02-16
  I love this workout. This is the exercise routine I do when I'm not in the mood to exercise! It moves by quickly, and has a minute countdown which is great for those of us who can't stand working out and tend to stare at the clock anyway! I'm not a big fan of yoga and yoga ball exercises, but this video is much more like strength training and the woman directing the video isn't corny or annoying at all. Great for alternating with a cardio dvd throughout the week. LOVE IT LOVE IT!
  
  
• A GREAT 30 MINUTES!
  By on 2004-03-02
  My husband and I got this video and we were sweating in the first 10 minutes! We did this video yesterday for the first time and I was very happy with it. I'm honestly sore today! Now I do have to say that we do not work out on a regular basis. I do recommend this video. They explain the exercises and there are the variations for people who are not advanced. It's only 30 minutes and it is over before you know it!
  
  
• Worth it
  By on 2004-05-25
  These quick 10 minute segments make you feel like you did something productive. After doing the whole workout just twice, I've begun to feel the pain of gain, especially in my lower abdomen (I've done the modified version-she shows you both modified and intense). Most videos only give me that burn in my upper abdomen. I'm really impressed with the results I've felt with such a quick "fix".
  
  
• Excellent quick workout!!!
  By A2RSAV8PBOAYF6 on 2005-07-04
  I am writing my review under my husband's user name, so please don't think this was written by a man! This was the first time I had exercised using a stability ball. I mainly purchased the DVD because of the time constraints I have to work out. I find this DVD extremely challenging yet easy enough for a beginner. One of the three girls is always showing an alternative to the moves for beginners. The main girl is very pleasant and to the point, not cutesy or trying to be funny. If you pay attention to what you're doing and are deliberate in the moves, you'll definitely feel it! If I only have time for one of the exercises, I still feel like I got a good workout and it was better than not exercising at all. I really like the timer in the corner because you can see how much time you have left, or if you're really getting into it, you'll be surprised how quickly the time passes! Using the stability ball is a lot of fun if you're getting bored with your regular exercise routine. This DVD is well worth the money.
  
  
• quick fix stability ball
  By A3JXFATDJ55ALA on 2005-08-31
  I get a great workout w/ the stability ball quick fix routine......I like that there are 3 10 minute workouts that I can do at any time..separately or together...I have other quick fix workouts and I like them as well..
  
  

• On the Ball Pilates Workout for Beginners
• 10 Minute Solution: Fitness Ball Workouts
• Fat to Firm Fitness Ball Workout for Dummies
• Karen Voight : B*L*T Butt, Legs & Tummy
• On the Ball With Sara Ivanhoe: Yoga Workout for Beginners