Charlie Brooks - Before And After Workout [2005] (DVD)

Good introduction to working out This DVD is split into small sections which is great as it makes you stick with each section since you know that it won't last too long to cope with. The first time I did it I was abe to do all the sections right through apart from the high intensity which shows that it really is harder than the other sections. Charlie is really upbeat throughout and even cracks some good jokes - so unlike the dreaded 'Janine'! Her trainer, Dee, can move a little fast sometimes but her instructions are very clear and constant. I think any problems I had with keeping up with it were due to a few small moments of confusing camera work. Overall it is shot well and if you keep your eye on Charlie she often does the moves even more clearly than Dee. This DVD really makes you sweat almost without knowing it, especially in the dance sections. Not too hard to get the hang of and quite fun to do.

Charlie Brooks DVD I can't recommend this highly enough. I need to lose a lot of weight - probably about 5 stones - and in six weeks, I've already lost a stone and a half. I feel much fitter as well! The separate sections mean that (personally) I was less likely to get bored. You do need to diet at the same time though!

Fun, Fit and Fabulous I LOVE this workout. It's hard work, tough and exhausting (and beleive you me, you'll feel it for days) but most importantly it's fun. It's rare that I can find a dvd which I look forward to doing, let alone keep it up but I have. Charlie is engaging and her personality shines through beautifully. Most importantly, she gets as tired and out of breath as the rest of us. The instructor I do find a little condesending at times but she does carry you through and make you more determined. All in all, this is most definately one of the most fun workout dvd's around. Now, question is, does it work? Well, I have been following a healthy eating plan with it and in two weeks I lost 2lbs but more importantly, I lost almost 1/2 inch around my waist and stomach (doing the dvd 3 times a week). It's great for beginners and the steps are explained perfectly by the instructor and though I've not yet managed to do the Hi-Intensity section, that simply means that there's something more for me to work towrads. It's the dvd that just keeps giving.

Great DVD, plenty of variety I have to admit to being a bit skeptial about celebrity excercise dvds but this one has changed my mind on that. It's 5 10 minute sections, with a good variety of moves. They're well explained and none too difficult to master within a couple of tries. It definitely works well on your thighs. The pilates section at the end is also pretty good for core work. Overall very good for a beginner to intermediate user.

Brilliant !! I started this video about 6 months after having my first baby as I needed to get in shape for my brothers wedding. I have to say I was very impressed. It was perfect as I could throw the video on when my son went down for a nap as opposed to having to find a babysitter whilst I nip off to the gym. AND the best part is - I totally lost weight after about 6 weeks of doing it (3 times a week) and finally fitted into the Bridesmaid dress!! I couldnt finish it all the first time I did it, but if you have a basic fitness level you will be able to get through it after about a week. Even my Mum who is 50 could get through some of it and the fitness instructor tells you to 'take it down' a notch if you cant keep up which gives you an option, rather than just give up. I loved it and am still doing it a year later (although I do have breaks every now and then). My only complaint is that you get a little bored with it (especially the music !!!) after a while, but I guess thats like everything. If you have a second video you can always switch it up. Enjoy....