Cathe Friedrich's Low Impact Step DVD

A solid step-aerobics workout and a well-structured stability-ball toning program. Like all Cathe's programs, it's exceptionally well-cued and sometimes challenging. But this is specially designed for less advanced exercisers (e.g. Cathe slows down to fully describe a move or limits the number of muscle-fatiguing “pulses” within the toning). The cardio features faster/slower intervals and has lots of interesting-but-doable combos (e.g. “around the world,” “rocking horse”). It's mostly low impact, but does have some higher-impact “bursts.” The toning uses the ball in nearly every routine; the ball increases the range of motion and improves body positioning (e.g. hamstring curls with your feet on the ball).

Requires 2 to 10 lb. dumbbells and a stability ball. ©2005

LOW IMPACT STEP (from the Total Cardio Step series): This 40-minute low-impact step workout is sure to burn fat and calories — all while having fun. The choreography is broken down so that it is easy to learn, yet challenging enough to keep you from getting bored. You’ll alternate easy to learn step aerobics with low-impact cardio blasts designed to keep your heart rate elevated while shaping your thighs and buns. For best results do this workout three times a week. Let’s Get Fit!

TOTAL BODY SCULPTING (from the Total Muscle Sculpting series): This 27-minute total-body sculpting workout is time efficient, effective, and completely balanced. It will shape, define, and strengthen your muscles — all while giving you the health benefits of maintaining strong bones. It is very easy to follow and requires very little equipment. Just a stability ball and a set of handweights. Do this workout two times a week and you will feel the difference immediately (and see the difference shortly thereafter). Grab your ball, weights, and let’s go!

DVD has chapters and premixed alternate workouts.