You Won't Feel Like a Dummy -- You Will Get Into Shape
Although I generally don't like thinking of myself as a "dummy," I take good information from wherever I can get it. This regimen depicts step-by-step instructions for 12 weight training exercises. The instructor, Tracy York, is no dummy, and makes the work out easy to understand, without talking down. The video incorporates both upper and lower body exercises to help tone muscles and burn more calories per day - which can lead to weight loss. Don't be surprised if you gain weight. Fat weighs less than muscle, and you will be adding muscle.

The instructions on this video include resistance exercises. These have been shown to increase bone density and stimulate the metabolism. Another benefit can be more muscle mass.

Shaping Up with Weights for Dummies introduces the basics of weight training in an understandable and not at all demeaning way. York exposes enough fitness myths to make the video a good value for this information alone. She also outlines the various muscle groups you will be exercising. Her focus is safety.

In the workout, all major muscle groups are attended to. There are 12 basic exercises one should do every day. Stretches are inserted between each. The instructor uses the stretching exercises to preach the virtues of body alignment and form. This is a worthwhile endeavor. The only down-side of these breaks is that they are a bit lengthy.

The line up: a four-minute warm-up, 35 minutes of resistance training, including stretches, and a five-minute workout for the abs.

The video recommends light hand weights for beginners. The emphasis is safety. You can also try workout with no weights at all, if you need to. It still works.

I didn't like the music, but that is not what I look for in an exercise video, unless it is by Richard Simmons.

Weight Training for Gentle Rehabilitation
Having waited several years for permission from my doctor to work my upper body, this DVD was an excellent beginning. I was a strong walker, but the lower body exercises (without dumbbells as your own weight is enough to start with) gave me a pleasant burn. I was very pleased with the slow pace of the video, and the perfect form of the instructor. I began with 1-pound weights to get my muscles used to the movement, then cautiously increased to 2-pound weights. I could feel the weight yet be comfortable that I was safely building a foundation.

So if you're really out of shape, I encourage you to start with this DVD. After you have mastered the form and developed some strength, then look for more challenge.

Good for a dummy/beginner
This tape is excellent for dummies. I bought it on the amazon website. I never did anykind of excercise before. So, this tape is a good start for me. But, I intend to try out more tapes for intermediate workouts. But, I'm glad i started out with this tape.

Great for a Beginner
I just started exercising again and wanted to add weight training but did not know where to start. This is an excellent video for a beginner. What I really like is the attention to form. Like she said it is much better to do fewer reps with good form than to do a lot of sloppy ones. I can see myself using this video for awhile. She gives lots of tips on how to make the exercises more challenging using heavier weights, altering your form. After awhile, I can see myself doing the routine with out the video. You can make it as challenging as you need.

VERY HELPFUL AND NOT TOO HARD
This is a very good video for beginners. I was out of shape although not overweight. This video has the exercises to get me back on track. I have already used it once and can feel the difference.