Brazilian Dance Workout with Vanessa Isaac (2005) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have wanted to learn that tricky Samba step ever since I went to visit cousins in Brazil years ago. I came away with a love of Brazilian music and dance, but I never was able to pick up that samba step--I'm not much of a dancer. Here is a workout tape with something to aim for; not only fitness, but learning those appealing dance routines from Carnival.

The tape begins with a longish warm up; a good idea as Brazilian dance, based on African style moves, requires you use EVERY part of your body. So you, like me, may not have moved some of those parts for quite a while. You shake your arms, roll your head, contract and roll the back and do hip swivels, and plenty of shoulder moves, too. The warm up is possibly a sufficient workout for someone very unfit or elderly, in fact.

The first dance sequence is done at half-tempo--but, here's my problem. The first step is not explained (a cross and back) but the easier back undulation at the end IS given instruction. Sure, some people have trouble undulating their spine, but the footwork also needed a bit of elucidation. Still, you can replay that part of the DVD til you get it--but it's a bit of a nuisance not to have a different camera angle or a talk-through. So plan on stopping and starting the DVD as you learn these steps before you can get a non-stop Samba workout.

This workout is particularly excellent for back flexibility. And on that note, if you do hAVE back problems, you might have difficulties with the upper body parts of this workout so consider your own limitations.

The filming is a bit dull--outdoors in a field with palm trees on a portable parquet dance floor. The usual "one from every kind" dance troupe of elderly, young, thin, plump, dark, light is included to make the viewer feel included. But the camera stays at a boring same distance. I wanted some more close ups and perhaps some alternate camera angles as well.

The music is drums and bells, typical samba rhythm, and very pleasant.

Summary: if you want a fun, dance workout, plan on spending some time learning the moves and then enjoy a very thorough, body-moving dance session.

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Product Description:
The Brazilian Dance Workout By Vanessa is already a classic. Named one of the top 10 DVDs of the year by Fitness Magazine and Women's Health and Fitness, this is a fitness title like no other, it paved the way for the current interest in Brazilian Dance and lifestyle! As Shape Magazine says: Exhilarating total whole-body workout!Inspired by Brazilian dance styles this DVD is a fun and effective workout. It brings together the rhythms and energy of Afro-Brazilian percussion and the sensuality of Brazilian dance! Filmed in a beautiful outdoor setting, this DVD will inspire you to shape up! The Brazilian Dance workout is a energetic 60 min. cardio workout for all fitness levels. The easy-to-follow workout combines the rich and intoxicating dances and rhythms of Brazil: Samba, Samba Reggae, African, Axe and Frevo moves and many others. It is a great routine that will make you sweat and put a smile on your face. It's all about letting the rhythm move you and celebrating life! Brazilian Style! #1 Dance Workout of the Year! - By Fitness Magazine.Named the Number 3 Overall Fitness DVD of the Year - By Fitness Magazine!Full of Energy and Fun... ideal for burning major calories! - Weight Watcher's Magazine.If you love to dance or enjoy Latin sounds, this is the workout for you!- Sweat Magazine.One of the top 10 fitness DVDs of the year! Women's Health & Fitness.* New cover art released. DVD content as 1st edition.

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