by Natasha Austin

Created on: March 24, 2009   Last Updated: March 27, 2009

Billy Blank's Basic Tae Bo Workout is ideal for those who want to get in twenty minutes of low impact fitness training. The workout doesn't take long, works the entire body, and offers good results. A follow up of the Billy Blank's Instructional Tae Bo video, the Basic Workout combines the moves learned in the first video, but the moves are choreographed into a fitness routine that just about anyone can follow. With its upbeat music and Billy's positive attitude, this workout offers fun as well as an energetic fitness experience. Billy begins with an introduction of himself and what he is about to put you, the audience, through with his workout.

He repeatedly tells you to keep the stomach in and chest up for maximum results. There are about twelve people behind Billy Blanks, all seemingly in good shape, and all from the early twenties to the early fifties in age. Billy gives encouragement to his audience, and points out examples from his peers throughout the video. He starts a great head to toe warm-up, with stretches designed to loosen the muscles. Then, there is a series of punches and knee lifts, which aid in more loosening of the muscles, but at a more strenuous rate. These get you ready for the more taxing moves, like the roundhouse kicks and speed bag moves. You are of course allowed to do cadences between moves, but you may pause and rest or drink water when you see fit. When the roundhouse kicks really pick up, about halfway in the workout, your body begins to get tired. At this point you may begin resting more and need more to drink as you work. The moves do continue to keep a steady pace, most of them going into what Billy terms "double-time," where the speed of movement picks up.

More roundhouse kicks on both legs is the last strenuous piece of the package, and this is very tiring, but also very effective in getting the legs toned. Stretching is the last part of the workout, what is called a cool down. The movements are fluid and resemble the art of tai chi. Billy bows to his audience and thanks them for participating at the very end. There is editing in the video to make some moves, such as the speed bag moves in double-time, appear faster than they actually are. While this editing doesn't give a real life depiction of the move, you can understand what is happening, and are moved to follow along for a good arm workout. I would recommend Billy Blanks Basic Tae Bo Video for someone who is at a basic level and who wants to do a lot in a little time. You can work up a sweat and begin to tone major areas of the body without taxing yourself too much. Once you reach a comfortable place in a few weeks with this video, you may want to try another one of Billy Blank's more strenuous workouts. It is worth it to keep yourself fit and fab!

Learn more about this author, Natasha Austin.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.