Exhale: Core Fusion Body Sculpt Reviews

• Intelligent Weight & Lotte Berk-Based Workout

  
  By AFOE4LTYQ1ZBT on 2009-01-11
  The first thing that impressed me about this video is its intelligence. It's a thinking person's workout. Exercises are strong on authentic Lotte Berk since that was a significant part of this couple's background, with additions from Pilates, yoga and classical weight training. They do an excellent job of talking you through the exercises, explaining what it will do for your body, thereby keeping you motivated from a positive place, which is so much nicer than the commonly used negative motivational techniques where somebody is screaming you through a breakneck pace. They have you concentrate on how your body is feeling the exercise, stopping momentarily if you need to, then picking it up again - instead of counting monotonous repetitions for you. This approach is so much more pleasant and sensible. The workout is muscle toning, organized as interval training. Interval training has been proven by medical research to be much preferred for promoting fat loss and heart reserve capacity, instead of long term cardio. The pacing promotes the mind-body connection and focus, which reminds me of my ballet training from years ago, or hatha yoga. You have a chance to breathe and think during the exercises, without feeling additional stress due to the exercising. Much appreciated after a hectic day at work.
  
  The video had a warm, intimate, personal trainer feel to it with the husband and wife team demonstrating the exercises together and instructing by means of a voiceover. They alternated showing the advanced version of an exercise and clearly indicated which person you should watch if that's the level you wanted. Setting is what I call "New Age living room," lovely décor, warm earthtones, water feature, and subdued lighting, plenty of camera shots from various angles. Music so unobtrusive I didn't even notice what it was, although there is a music only option in the special features after you get tired of the instructional. My husband really liked the fact that a man was showing the exercises also - funny how the same movement can look a little different on a man. He also liked the fact that it was a husband and wife team instead of a group of women. We're pressed for time, like to do things together, and this video fills the bill nicely. No more scheduling TV time for mutually exclusive workouts. Top quality production, first class all the way. I think this delightful couple with impressive credentials has set a new standard for fitness videos, and I look forward to more offerings from them in years to come.
  
  
  

• I LOVE Core Fusion!

  
  By A2YB04RTKED7US on 2008-12-12
  I'm always looking for something fun and results oriented to keep me motivated. This DVD totally fits the bill on that front. It's a really interesting and different approach to a total body workout broken up into do-able 10-minute sections that completely make me "feel the burn" AND keep me interested. The instructors do a great job of explaining each exercise clearly and showing alternate moves. Core Fusion seems to be all about small muscle movements and lots of reps so you're not working with heavy weights. However, you are repeating specific exercises for a longer period than you normally would so by the time you're done with each 10-min segment you really know you put some work into that muscle group. My personal faves are the ballet inspired chair workouts (amazing for the rear-end) and the arm workouts (awesome tri/bicept routine).
  
  If you like this one, check out Core Fusion Pilates Plus. I bought both DVDs at once and am really pleased. Pilates Plus features the same instructors but with exercises that target the abs. The fact that I not only finished this DVD, but am doing it regularly is a testament in itself as I normally can't get through a pilates workout (find them boring in many cases) and I hate working my abs. I may be imagining things but I do feel a bit tighter all around after doing these workouts for a little while. Both Core Fusion DVDs have quickly become part of my regular workout rotation.
  
  

• Ouch and Ahhh!

  
  By ANTUE374RX6P on 2009-03-23
  I am the type of person that might as well open a library with all the workout DVDs I have. This one makes it to the top of the list. There are several selling points:
  
  1) time - there are 5 ten minute sections that do not feel like an eternity nor is there time wasted with talk.
  
  
  2) form - these two are very careful about form and ensuring that you are able to visualize exactly how you should be doing what they instruct.
  
  3) effectiveness - you feel it afterwards. The next day after doing about three out of the five workouts, I was feeling my muscles.
  
  4) palatable - these two are not annoying, don't yell, have nice music (or not) behind them and are all about the work itself.
  
  
  
  

• Core Fusion helped me heal my back AND gave me the best body of my life!

  
  By A3R510HAQWO7N5 on 2008-12-11
  One night I sat up off the couch and felt something shift in my back. The next day I could not move. I heard CF is great for people with back injuries, so once I got the ok from my doctor to start moving, I did so via the CF Body Sculpt and Pilates Plus DVD's!! MAN, let me tell you- to be able to go at my own pace, engage in movement that worked both the intensity of MY level of fitness and challenged BEYOND it, without feeling my back was amazing! Plus, I was able to build my strength, shape my body like never before, and shave inches off my thighs and waist, all while healing my injury! I felt empowered in a very defeating situation. it was so good for me mentally and emotionally to know I could still EXERCISE while doing something safe and effective for my body! I have never FELT STRONGER!!!
  
  

• An excellent workout

  
  By AL101ZVF6XPOY on 2009-08-06
  This workout was great. I completed it about 15 minutes ago and I can definitely feel it right now. The workout is broken into 5 10-minute segments which is a format that I love as it means you can break it down for a shorter workout and even if you do the whole thing is doesn't feel like an eternity because of the changing segments. The general idea is to do strengthening exercises followed by stretches to lengthen the muscles.
  
  Overview of the segments:
  Arms: this was probably my least favorite segment. I prefer the arms segment on 10 minute solutions pilates perfect body. It was about 6-7 minutes of arms work and then 3-4 of stretching the arms. It felt rushed and the cueing seemed a little off. Also, I just didn't find it very hard. For this segment you need light handweights.
  
  Thighs: this segment was excellent. They claim you need a chair to do these excercises however if you have reasonably strong thighs and good balance it's not necessary. These exercises make you feel your thighs, mine started shaking like crazy at one point and are really effective.
  
  Glutes: I think this was the hardest segment on the DVD. I really like that they had a segment devoted especially to glutes, a lot of video through them in with thighs and I don't think they work very hard. In this segment you're glutes will work hard, and a chair is an absolute necessity. I had to take several breaks during it but am looking forward to working up to the full segment.
  
  Abs: I'm glad this segment was short because although it was good work for the abs it was a bit boring. You put your feet up on the wall and hold yourself in a sit-up position (don't think this sounds hard? neither did I but try doing it for about 8 minutes) and then do variations from there. Not my favorite ab workout but effective, I definitely felt my abs straining.
  
  Stretch: I really like it when DVDs have a specific long segment devoted to stretching. That said, this was not my favorite stretching segment. I wish the stretches had been held a little less long and there had been more different stretches. It ended and I still felt the need to do some other stretches to really feel stretched out. But the stretches they did were good, and there's something to be said for holding them for so long and really makin your body relax into the stretch.
  
  Overall, I definitely recommend purchasing this video. It's a really effective workout and I certainly liked all the segments enough to continue doing them even if they weren't my favorite. Also I really liked that they had two instructors, a man and a woman, and showed simpler variations of many of the moves, including when it was best to rest if you needed it. One con I haven't mentioned yet (and this is a personal preference thing) is that the instruction is voice-over which is not my favorite and I sometimes felt like the cueing was not right on. Final thought: For $15 worth it!
  
  
• This is the Tonic of Youth!
  By A6UOMNX7DMMV5 on 2008-12-24
  I am a 45 year old man who has taken class with Fred and Elisabeth but do not have the time to attend their Exhale studio classes regularly...I found these DVDs to be awesome. The DVD's have allowed me to develop a daily at home routine using Core Fusion stretching and strengthening exercises on my own while getting instructions and reminders on how to perform them properly. The end result has been that I rarely suffer from back aches and sciatica that had plagued me before. Thank you exhale's Fred & Elisabeth for sharing this amazing routine!
  
  
• Buns of Steel!
  By AVBNMDES3VH4V on 2009-09-02
  As a Barre instructor, I have been familiar with Core Fusion for years now. I used to take Core Fusion classes at the Exhale Santa Monica location and literally jumped for joy when I found out they were starting a DVD collection (and would no longer have to shell out $20 a class)....introducing CORE FUSION BODY SCULPT. This video has literally transformed my body, which, for someone who spends an inordinate amount of time teaching AND working out is no small feat. I do this video 3 times a week and sometimes break the video up into small parts to do throughout the day. What I love about this DVD is how it allows anyone to do it regardless of equipment (all you need is a chair and use soup cans if you don't have access to weights!) and the informative way in which both Fred and Elisabeth instruct you. Personally, I quit my gym because I found it incredibly boring to huff and puff the calories away on the elliptical. This DVD will give you long, lean legs and one seriously perky tushy. My mother, who is quite possibly the most critical woman alive, even commented on the amazing results it's given me. She's a pilates instructor and even SHE found the video remarkable -- my poor father has been forced to do the video with her and even he can't stop singing its' praises. If you love the long, lean, and STRONG look...this is for you.
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• BEST THING OUT!!!
  By A2AI4HR9UUXOJG on 2009-06-22
  This workout video is awesome!!! I don't even know were to being! The tape is broken down into 5 - 10 minute workouts (that go by fast might I add). They are broken down by upper body, thighs, gluteus (butt), abs, & stretches. You can do which ever one you feel you need targeting, but if you do them all, that is when you get the full workout. After every segment the instructors do stretches to take the tension off your muscles. They even have 2 bonus workouts that are only like 10-15 minutes as well.
  
  I'm the type who loves pilates, no cardio workout tapes (not a fan). The first time I used it, I felt good, relaxed, lengthened & stretched out. By the next day you see a difference. You don't feel sore until the end of the next day. Every workout you do no matter what it is, you are going to have soreness until you continue to do it regularly. I've been doing it for 4 weeks now, so far my body looks MUCH better, it looks a lot more toned (and that was my main problem). I lost a dress size already, but still the same weight. I can't wait to see my body in 4 more weeks! This DVD is great!!!
  
  
• Simply the BEST home workout video I ever did!
  By A3ITL4N7SCXNDP on 2010-01-27
  I am a veteran of collecting home workouts as well as a former dancer, with a complete library of pilates, yoga, cardiobarre, ballet fusion, etc. etc. etc. videos and DVDs. Because of actually DOING the videos on a regular basis (4-6 times a week depending on my schedule), I think that I am in above average shape and rarely get noticeably sore muscles or am winded by any workout any longer.
  
  This video changes all that. I was really looking for a new challenge and found this Core Fusion program after some research. The first time I did it: WOW. My legs especially noticed the difference, and I had a hard time getting through the thigh segment without pausing, which has not happened with another workout in years.
  
  -The first 10 minute segment is arm work, with light hand weights. I liked the different arm and back muscles that were targeted, and though I could get through this part without too much trouble, after about 4 workouts I could see increased definition in the muscles in my shoulders and back.
  
  -The second 10 minute segment is the leg work using a chair and long holds in some classic ballet stances with clever alterations. This part has made the biggest difference to me personally, I lost at least an inch on my thighs after a month or so and my legs STILL shake at certain points in the workout. The best leg work I ever did!
  
  -The third 10 minute segment targets the butt and legs while using a chair for support, and lots of leg lifting in various ballet positions really lifts the rear and strengthens the standing leg.
  
  -The fourth 10 minute segment was also very powerful and intensive, it is the abdomen segment and it was also one of the most difficult that I had encountered, with long holding postions and lots of core strengthening. I STILL can not complete the entire segment without a break or two, so it continues to challenge me.
  
  -The fifth and final segment is the stretching portion, which is very soothing and yet lengthening. The leg stretch portion really showcases how much leg work has been done early, as I still often have shaky legs at this point.
  
  HIGHLY recommended for those already in good physical shape and want a long term, consistent challenge!
  
  
  
  
  
• Results....period
  By A1EQDVAS3O0WBY on 2010-05-21
  There are a number of reviews on Amazon for this DVD, so depending on how you determine what type of workout is right for you, the following factors might be taken into consideration:
  
  1. Low impact, strength training - this video certainly delivers as a workout that doesn't involve much "jarring" exercise - a big reason why I personally like it. No sneakers, you can work out in your PJs
  
  2. Time - I prefer workouts that are under 30 minutes as I frequently find it challenging to find time to work out (effectively) for an hour. The workouts in this DVD are broken out into (approx) 10 minutes, focusing on arms, thighs, butt, core and stretching. I like the fact that I can devote 20 minutes and target certain areas, and you will absolutely feel "the burn". You may not be sore the next day, but your muscles will definitely feel tired. Although there is a lot of time devoted to stretching, I do feel that it is necessary to take a break to realign your posture and stretch for the purpose of "sculpting" lean muscles. Although the stretching may seem unnecessary or prolonged, it appears that the time of rest helps to shape the body into more of a dancer's physique.
  
  3. Effectiveness - I personally think this is the most important factor. As much (or as little) as you enjoy the instructors cueing, tone, delivery, etc, it really doesn't matter if you are not getting the results from the workout (in my opinion). Any workout depends on the individual to push themselves beyond their own physical and mental limitations to truly see change and results. I have been using Body Sculpt 5x a week for about 3 weeks and I can honestly say that I have lost inches in my waist and thighs. I have a very athletic build and never thought my legs could be "slim"; I've always assumed I had "soccer legs" as my calves and thighs were typically quite bulky. With Body Sculpt, I have seriously noticed a slenderizing effect on my legs, to the point where a lot of my pants are fitting LOOSELY (for pants that I wore in COLLEGE, I am now in my 30s). I think this is the most dramatic, and truly telling, evidence of the effectiveness of this workout. Although the voice over and comments occasionally annoy me (ears over shoulder, shoulders over hips, blah, blah, blah) , I try to ignore the monotonous monologue to get to my end goal, which is to stay slim!!!
  
  
• core fusion
  By A3LU8SSW2V88WI on 2009-01-11
  I love the combination of strengthening and stretching. I have always had weak abs/core and after 3 weeks I can already tell a difference. It changes the way I do my other activities - skiing, running- and my posture has improved. Love it and am looking forward to the next video.
  
  
• Finally, something different!
  By A16NQF4IUGU29B on 2009-07-31
  I just started using this DVD a few weeks ago and it is fantastic! It has helped me take inches off my thighs and butt that I couldn't lose before. It's composed of five10-minute sections: arms & shoulders, thighs, butt, abs, and stretch. The exercises use small movements with lots of reps - your muscles stay in a working zone through most of the 10 minutes, so you really feel a deep burn by the end. The two instructors are wonderful at encouraging you to keep moving through the burning sensation. Having two of them is great since throughout the workout, they are always demonstrating beginner and advanced modifications.
  
  The arms and shoulders section requires some light hand weights (5lbs was too much for me. It seems to be inspired by classical strength training moves, but given a bit of a twist. The thighs and the butt segments use a chair as a barre for some ballet-inspired exercises - these sections are difficult, but really produce results. The ab workout is also challenging. My only issue was that it requires you to brace your feet on a wall, which in my apartment, does not allow me to watch the TV. Though using a voiceover prevents wasted time in this DVD, there are times where the cuing is lacking. They often make subtle changes to their movements and don't mention it on the voiceover. This means you sometimes need to sacrifice your position to make sure you're still keeping up with them.
  
  This program provides something a little different from most workout DVDs of this type. It seems to be a very effective and challenging mix of training styles. Best of all, it leaves you feeling relaxed and energized, not strained (well, you'll be sore the next day...). I definitely recommend giving this one a try!
  
  
  
• Love it
  By A164JOEUPISM34 on 2009-05-26
  All of these 5-star reviews speak the truth! I'm someone who hates workout DVDs but really wanted to find something new and interesting to do at home since my own workouts have become stale. After reading the reviews here then viewing clips I took a chance and bought it and now I'm hooked. It's challenging without being exhausting and I even feel invigorated enough after the 50 minute workout to attempt the bonus "flat back/round back" bonus feature (I say attempt because it truly is the most challenging core sequence I have ever done). The 50 minutes goes by quite fast and I love how it's broken up into 10 minute segments, that way you can really push yourself since you know it's going to be over quickly. The movements are intense and the instructors demonstrate beginner modifications along with the more advanced exercises. The instruction is very good and easy to follow, not distracting or annoying like most exercise DVDs. The music is good as far as these things go, not overwhelming, peaceful but enough to keep up the energy. The workout targets the upper body, thighs, glutes, and abs, followed by a 10 minute stretch and cool down. Your legs will be shaking buy the middle of the glute sequence and your butt will be on fire so YOU KNOW you are getting the job done! The ab series is done with the feet up on a wall so you can really feel the abdominals start to work right away -- a very challenging sequence but motivating and you will find yourself pushing past the pain because you know it's only ten minutes. I'm definitely going to buy the other Core Fusions DVD in a few weeks since I'm so impressed with this one!
  
  
• WOW!
  By A1BHYO65GCIRAN on 2009-02-01
  I've been lifting heavy and working large muscles and doing lots of cardio for 6 months. I've lost 45 lbs. When I saw that this uses small weights, I was sceptical. This worked all the supportive smaller muscles as well as the larger ones, I was aching in a good way for two days! I love it. I came back two days later and did more. I can tell that it's going to do more for my quads and glutes than squats and lunges, because the burn is so much more intense. My butt would recover quickly from standard exercises, but for 24 hours my muscles are tight after these workouts. If you're a fitness model, do these before a shoot. Brilliant. The arm exercises are awesome and very challenging. I highly recommend this DVD for body building, you won't get big, but you'll get strong. Combined with cardio, you'll get ripped! I would really like that butt on the cover, can I have it please?
  
  
• Just what I was looking for.
  By A3696WU3Q3FU3D on 2008-12-19
  If you enjoy Bar Method or Lotte Berk, you will love this workout. I love the format of this dvd. You can do a quick 10 minutes workout or a full body longer workout. I wanted some new bar style workouts but don't always have a full 40 minutes every day and sometimes just want to focus on one body part. So this is perfect for me as an add on to a cardio or if I am just short on time.
  
  The workout itself is the perfect level of difficulty - hard but not so difficult I put off doing it. I haven't had this particular workout long enough to see results specific to this dvd, but this style of workout gives me great results, especially in the buns and abs areas.
  
  
• Core Fusion in my home - Awesome!
  By A2TM0DJJUUQN4X on 2009-01-07
  During a Core Fusion class at Exhale my legs would shake non-stop. After 50 min of the cd my legs still shake, that's how I know I'm getting the same benefits without going to the studio! Another wonderful feature is how the cd is broke down in 10 min workouts. Having three kids I don't always get the time to do an entire workout. I can do 10 min and come back an hour later and do another 10 min. The benefits are the same and now I really have no excuse. Thanks for bringing Core Fusion to my home!
  
  
• Really has some serious flaws.
  By A3GXTFD79ABAT1 on 2009-11-16
  There are some exercises which aren't bad overall on this DVD, but there are issues which make this not a very enjoyable one for me to do (recognizing that 'enjoyable' and 'workout dvd' really don't go together, but hopefully you'll get what I mean).
  
  The cuing, I think, is pretty miserable in terms of time or when a movement is supposed to begin or end. Unless you're watching the TV very carefully, there's often little idea of how fast a movement is supposed to be and the background music doesn't help keep 'the beat' at all. On one stretch, in particular, by the time the voiceover explains what position one should be in, it's time to immediately move on to the other side...it's pretty bad.
  
  Even if you ARE watching the TV, it's not always easy to follow how quickly something ought to be done. The movements aren't often well defined and the camera angles are often not set at a good angle to get an accurate sense of the full form of the movement.
  
  And last...the ab section is something that I don't get on several levels. I'm not a big fan of putting feet on the wall. I mean...I've just worked out, I'm feeling kind of oogy and ... I'm supposed to plant my bare feet on the painted wall? Even getting past that (and I've tried more than a few times!), the whole ab section is doing something that I haven't been able to figure out yet (and I've been doing pilates for a couple of years, so I don't think my abs are completely useless)...I just can't seem to figure out how these exercises are supposed to 'work' and spend a lot of time rewinding, replaying, rewatching to figure out what I'm doing wrong (and still haven't figured it out).
  
  There is a bunch of 'wasted time' on this dvd...which isn't bad if you need time to recover but I think it could have used time more efficiently. The stretching is pretty poor too, in my opinion.
  
  Anyway...I was surprised, since this dvd got such decent reviews overall, but every time I do this dvd I'm reminded of these issues and thought someone else might appreciate the heads up prior to purchase.
  
  
• Oof!
  By A36Y83X93KE2UD on 2009-03-02
  This DVD kicks my butt, but in a good way. They go through each muscle group in separate segments, first working the muscles to exhaustion and then following that up with stretching and flexibility exercises. I am utterly exhausted when I'm done, but it feels really good. My one caution: my low back reacts badly to overextension, and I definitely did that here. If that's an issue for you, pay careful attention to whether you're doing anything that's going to hurt. I'm going to have to skip some of the exercises and do something else that won't leave me quite so achy for the next few days. But I'm still going to keep using the rest of this video!
  
  
• Core Fusion will kick your Butt
  By A33CUSIE62VWP8 on 2009-02-15
  I have takes classes at Exhale and use the dvd for wheN I have no time to go to the gym. I love it.
  It's split into five 10 minute sections-
  Upper body
  thighs,
  glutes,
  core and
  stretch (and also a the bonus sections).
  So you can use whatever you feel like or all of them.
  
  
  I do feel as much of a workout as when I go to the studio class.
  It's a great DVD with precise instruction.
  I throw in some cardio and I have a complete workout.
  
  
• Exactly what I was looking for!
  By A3SC741OKVY1CT on 2009-06-28
  I have spent the last six months trying to find a dvd where I can actually do the moves as well as enjoy the workout. I am determined to get into shape but consider myself a complete beginner to exercise. I have had so much trouble finding a fitness dvd that can truely cater to complete beginners and because of this, I have a personal library of fitness dvds collecting dust. I also consider myself a difficult person to please when it comes to fitness since, I personally do not enjoy traditional exercise that include, crunches, lunges, and all the other moves we learned in gym class! I know these moves are highly effective at achieving results but cannot help the fact that they completely bore me!
  
  I enjoyed this dvd because it incorporates moves from pilates, yoga and ballet, all of which I've always wanted to try. There are four 10 minute rather intense workouts for your abs, glutes, arms/upper body, and thighs. Each section includes modifications which even as a beginner are difficult (but not impossible as they have been with other dvds) because I am not strong or flexible enough to do the moves. The fifth segment is a 10 min stretch that I do after I complete the workout to keep from getting too sore the next day.
  
  Bottom line this is the first dvd I enjoyed that as a beginner was capable of doing. This is the first time I actually look forward to working out and I owe it all to this dvd!
  
  
• A great workout 50-somethings who like to stay in shape
  By A364H5U2B4PKWM on 2009-06-01
  I'm so glad to have found this DVD! Even though I qualify for the senior discount at resturants I still enjoy a good workout. But as I've gotten older my joints can no longer take the pounding of most traditional workouts. This Core Fusion Body Sculpt DVD gets my heart rate up & gives my muscles a good burn without making my joints hurt. The "strength in stillness" philosophy is a winner in my book & I heartily recommend this DVD!
  
  
• Serious sculpting balanced with pleasureable stretching
  By A3TJ1ESNROUUMX on 2009-02-02
  This is an execellent work-out program, nicely divided into 5 ten-minute sections so that you can do a full-body workout or focus on specific areas. The areas addressed are upper body, thighs, glutes, abs and stretching. Though there is an entire section on stretching, balancing stretches are included in each workout. I think of the pleasurable stretches as the "reward" for the intense toning. I consider myself quite fit, but this DVD seriously works my muscles - especially the abs section - ouch! But great results in a very short time! Highly recommended . . .
  
  
• Excellent DVD!
  By A1L1OFM8F7SU69 on 2010-02-03
  These routines made me feel like a whiny little girl. I was expecting this 10 minute workout to be a light exercise DVD, for one of my off days, but the unexpected result of feeling mostly every muscle used afterwords was what I received. These mini-workouts are challenging, but feel extremely effective. Both instructors are VERY particular in correcting the posture and form of the exercises and it truly makes a difference.
  
  The instructors do voice-overs instead of cuing, which I can't decide if I like or if I don't. (The smiling is a bit heavy in most of the segments, making them look extremely happy.)
  
  
  Upper body: One of my most neglected body parts, and it showed. Half way into it, I was looking for something more than 5:00 on the timer because of how challenging it was.
  
  Thighs: Mostly plies and squats, but knowing that these are both effective exercises helps you pull through the 10 minutes.
  
  Glutes: I would NOT recommend this entire segment for those with knee or hip problems. I'm in my early twenties and could have a better turnout, but when you are doing lifts with your back leg, they ask to turn out slightly with a straight leg, then a bent knee later, which felt uncomfortable, and almost contradicting of the instruction to keep your hips square.
  
  Ab routine: This is not for those with poor core strength. I feel as though this is an intermediate segment with lots to share. This is entirely on abs, and you need a wall to put your feet up onto.
  
  Stretch: This is a yoga-type division of the DVD, and a great end to a workout. The relaxing pace gives you the time to cool down but still feel the strength in the stretches.
  
  
• Great routine that is effective & inspiring
  By A16R7DARMGF7U8 on 2009-12-17
  Let me preface this by saying that I am not someone who is "athletic" or "LOVES TO WORKOUT!" I love how working out makes me feel mentally, how it makes my body look, and that it gives me energy - but I don't wake up thinking, "YES! I get to work out this morning!" if you know what I'm saying... I basically have to "trick" myself into exercising by making it both fun & rewarding (i.e. do things that give me quick results).
  
  So, that said - I like this workout a lot! The instructors are likable, and their flexibility & strength is totally inspiring! I'd LOVE to get to where Elisabeth is in terms of flexibility. She's amazing. I admit that hearing a voiceover instead of a "live narration" of the exercises was a little weird at first, but I got over it & do not find it distracting. (Also, I've noticed that quite a few pilates & yoga-style DVDs have this voiceover style of instruction; I think because so much of the routine focuses on proper breathing that it'd be hard for the instructor to demonstrate the moves while instructing the viewer at the same time.)
  
  I really love how this DVD is broken down into 5 10-minute chapters/workouts. Each one covers a different area of the body, and somehow, knowing that each section is only 10 minutes makes the time fly by & I enjoy it more than knowing I have an hour-long workout to get through. It's also really nice to be able to focus on a certain body area, and rotate which muscle groups I work on throughout the week. I usually do 1, 2, or 3 of the chapters after my cardio workout, and I love the variety!
  
  In terms of equipment needed, I use both 2- and 5-lb. weights for the upper body workout (depending on which move I'm doing). When I first purchased this DVD, I only had 5-lb. weights & it was way too hard for me to do the tricep work! I bought a set of 2-lb. weights to use for the routine, and they're perfect! I know that amount of weight sounds like nothing, but the moves are intense. I can definitely feel it the next day. I think even Fred uses just 3-lb. weights! The only other "equipment" that you need is a chair or countertop (for balance during the thigh chapter) & a yoga mat if you don't have carpeted floors.
  
  My favorite chapters are the ones for upper body & lower body. I like the ab section least because I think too much time is wasted & the moves aren't very effective. Other than that, I have no complaints!
  
  Overall, this is a great DVD for toning & strengthening. Highly recommended!
  
  
• Tough short workouts! Perfect for new mom!
  By A56IH77Y0N6N8 on 2009-10-02
  UPDATE #2: Aug 9, 2010- I've been doing this dvd along with other ore Fusion DVDs and the Bar Method since Jan 2010 and let me tell you, this WORKS!! I look better now than I did at 18- seriously. I've been doing core fusion dvds 2-3x a week and bar method about 2x a week (with a few other dvd's thrown in) and I cannot recommend this highly enough. Granted it takes discipline, but I carve out an hour after the child goes to bed 5x a week and do this, no excuses. The results have been worth every minute and the more results I have gotten the more motivated I am to continue. For anyone who is unsure, BUY this DVD (and the thighs and glutes and pilates plus ones- I think they even have a bundle of the 3 dvds now). Even though I have other workout dvds, these and the Bar Method have become my go-to dvds. Yes, they aren't the most exciting, but once you see the results you are motivated. At this point Liz and Fred are like old friends, and I just love them. These DVDs have given me so much confidence that I had lacked for years. Bless Liz and Fred for making these and making the otherwise expensive and exclusive Core Fusion workouts available to those of us without the financial or geographical means to go to the Exhale spa. The best part is, I haven't even been doing cardio and have lost so much fat- my figure has just melted away into something better. BUY these DVDs!!
  
  ORIGINAL REVIEW: This dvd is TOUGH! I thought I was in relatively good shape but after doing these sets I realized how out of shape I am! The best part is that there are five 10 minute segments, each focusing on an area of the body or stretching. I'm a new mom, post c-section, and not only do I NEED to tone up my abs, but I also have very little time in which to go to the gym or even just work out without being interrupted. The great thing is, I can steal 10 minutes here and there while baby is sleeping, get a full workout in (albeit broken up) and I know if I keep on working on this video and eating right I should be back to pre-baby tummy in no time. Not to mention the instructors have tremendous skill (and Elisabeth Halfpapp's physique is my inspiration) and the video is well narrated, filmed well showing several angles and skill level options with the exercises, and the music is nice. Plus, you can turn off the music OR the narration which is really nice depending on your preference. The focus on core and posture is really helpful for those of us who do not have the best posture, and helps one find how strong the body *should* feel all the time. This is a great workout dvd and I highly recommend it.
  
  UPDATE: I've been doing this video intermittently (and not as often as I would like) for 3 months now and it has given me my figure back! My pre-baby jeans are actually *loose* now and my hubby noticed my butt has gotten a lot tighter- and I didn't even ask him, he just commented recently! The proof is in the puttin' and Core Fusion WORKS! I'm actually more motivated now that I'm seeing results. Stick with it and you'll definitely see the difference!
  
  
• Great Purchase
  By A8IBC98YYR8C5 on 2009-04-28
  I'm always a bit skeptical with exercise DVDs, but this one has been the best I've purchased. Each 10 min workout is strenuous- making the entire 50m workout that much greater. Have definitely noticed more definition in my legs and arms. Highly recommend w/ the caveat that you need to use the DVD at least 3x a week for results (like any workout).
  
  *Great to do on its own, or add a couple of the 10m workouts after a cardio session
  
  
  
• Core Fusion Fun!
  By A7DIUUFURWG43 on 2009-01-08
  This is a very "do-able" workout because it is in 10 minute intervals so that just when you think you can't - you can! I've only been doing it for a short time but I have started to feel a difference already. I love that the instructors give detailed support throughout. I am not usually one to write reviews of products, but this one is definitely worth the time and trouble. Try it!!
  
  
• Great Workout!!
  By A1T8221ZMHXEU0 on 2009-12-20
  I was looking for a workout that wasn't so hard on my knees, joints, etc but still delivered good results. I usually run, do the elliptical, et other workout tapes through the week. These workouts usually leave me sore and I don't look forward to working out. I not only LOOK FORWARD to this workout but also am seeing and feeling great results in only 2 weeks.My husband even commented that he has noticed a difference! I have put all other methods of exercise on hold to see what this workout will do alone and so far I am very impressed! I am 41 and really need something that shapes and sculpts without injury. This workout, so far, is delivering the goods. I want to purchase Pilates Plus and use with this video. I hope I continue to see results in order to leave some of that 'bone jarring' exercise behind.I love this workout and think you will too!!
  
  
• Amazingly effective & difficult in just 10 minutes!
  By A1OOOBT1YGN56Z on 2009-12-17
  I was already working out regularly, trail running and swimming, so was very surprised how sore my thighs were after doing the 10-minute thigh sculpt segment! Great workout & leaders who walk you through it are very likeable & easy to follow. Time for the 5 segments flies by and I like having possibility of doing shorter workouts when I have less time. I alternate it with Lotte Berke Muscle Eats Fat.
  
  
• Excellent!
  By A3E4K508NL75UG on 2009-09-21
  This video is excellent! You need a set of weights (2-4lbs to start off),a counter or chair to hold on to, as well as a wall on which to put your feet. The exercises are innovative, and you feel the effects pretty fast. You don't have to jump around, nor take over a room: the movements are subtle and small, in order to work the muscle. The coaches emphasize form, and if you do the exercise as they tell you, you minimize stress on your joints, pain and injuries. It's a great video, and I strongly recommend it to those who don't want annoying cheerleading, but want results fast.
  
  

• Exhale: Core Fusion - Thighs & Glutes
• Exhale: Core Fusion - Pure Abs & Arms
• Exhale: Core Fusion Thighs & Glutes
• Exhale: Core Fusion - Pilates Plus
• Exhale: Core Fusion Pure Abs & Arms