The FIRM: Body Sculpting Basics with Susan Harris

Body Sculpting Basics is a total-body workout designed by Founder of The FIRM Anna Benson. Susan Harris leads a routine that astonished the exercise community when first introduced. For the first time, weights and aerobics were combined in one program. This is now a proven best method for simultaneous fat loss and muscle toning in the least amount of time.

The Warm-Up (4 M.) is followed by a Giant Total-Body Set (23 M.). Maximum poundage is used for lunges, squats and upper body. Cardio Activities are inserted to keep the heart rate high. A notable Giant Floor Set (22 M.) includes push-ups. Tough and thorough, multiple body positions tone hips and thighs. Core (6 M.) and Stretch (5 M.) exercises complete the workout.

Equipment: Assorted dumbbell pairs (5 to 20 lbs.) and optional ankle weights, and an 18 2x4 board are used.

An exercise video classic — the program that initially launched The Firm brand in 1986. It begins with a varied series of blended aero/tone exercises. Revolutionary at the time, these fast-paced moves burn fat as they build lean muscle (e.g. jogging in place while you're doing overhead dumbbell presses). The second segment is pure toning — multi-muscle floorwork that specifically targets your hips and thighs. It features the Firm's “mansion” set with film-quality production and jazz-style music.

The warm-up is followed by a Giant Total-Body set. Maximum poundage is used for lunges, squats and upper body. Cardio activities are inserted to keep the heart rate high. A notable giant floor set includes pushups. Tough and thorough, multiple body positions tone hips & thighs. Core and stretch exercises complete the workout.

Requires two sets of dumbbells (e.g. 3 and 5 lb.); ankle weights are optional. ©1986
(re-released in 2012 on DVD, now with chapters). Originally titled “The Firm: Aerobic Workout with Weights Vol. 1.”