I've always believed that regular exercise was an essential part of staying well and feeling energized. When I recently had some issues with one of my ankles that didn't allow me to walk or do any weight-bearing exercise, for extended periods of time; I went looking for a workout DVD that I could still do.
After reading some very inspiring comments/reviews about: Jane Fonda Prime Time: Fit & Strong DVD, I decided to give it a try. And I'm certainly glad that I did.
First of all, how could anyone not be inspired and encouraged by anyone who looks as good as Jane Fonda does? I think she's absolutely beautiful. In her 70"s now (seemingly ageless!) and in much better shape than a lot of women in their 30-40's.
And she certainly is a pro when it comes to putting together an exercise video that is not only effective but fun and informative too. Hard to believe it was the late 1970's when her first exercise videos were available. How time flies!
The Jane Fonda Fit & Strong DVD includes two workouts, each approximately 30 minutes including a warm-up and stretches to finish. There is also an introduction (calming and empowering) and balance exercise (so important to maintain our balance) segment, both that are worthwhile adding to any daily exercise workout.
Jane Fonda not only explains each exercise well, she also shares interesting facts/stats throughout, the workouts about the importance and benefits of exercise. For example: did you know that people between 50-72 can actually increase their muscle mass/strength by as much as 200% with regular strength training exercises? Amazing! And we all know how important it is to stay strong, whatever age we are.
Jane also talks about the importance of balance and working to maintain a good level of ability in this regard, throughout our lives. Unfortunately, changes to balance start to happen in our 20's and decline from there. But with specific balancing exercises added to our daily exercise regimes, we can help to stem the tide. Such an important topic that from what I've seen elsewhere is usually overlooked when it comes to any type of exercise programs/DVDs.
The Jane Fonda Prime Time: Fit & Strong DVD is a very good way to ease back into an exercise program, if you've been unable to participate in regular exercise, for whatever reason. Even if it just comes down to being unmotivated or as in my case, having an injury that made my regular activities hard to continue on a regular basis. This DVD would be too easy for someone who is already working out at an intermediate level but that's just not the reality for a lot of us.
Some other things I appreciate about this DVD. Jane Fonda has a very soothing, relaxing voice to listen to. It's easy to focus on what she is saying and to follow her instructions to the letter.So many exercise DVD's are lead by instructors with annoying, grating voices that definitely don't add to the routines.
And speaking of instructions another helpful and appreciated point I noted with this DVD: when Jane is referring to working the left arm or leg...she is working the reverse herself, so that what we see facing the TV matches up with her instructions. So many instructors don't bother to do this.
The only thing that could be improved on this video is a minor issue. I found the background used for this workout distracting and "busy" looking. For example, there is a coffee table directly behind Jane Fonda when she is working out. When she is doing chair exercises, it looks like there are "wings" sticking out from both sides! A simple, attractive room without so much clutter would have added to the appeal of this DVD. Minor but something that could be improved upon.
If you stop by Amazon, you can read many positive reviews about this DVD. Some very touching personal comments included and written by people of all ages.
It really is never too late to get more physically active and strive to be in better shape. Our attitude is so important in terms of what aging well really means and in all areas of our lives, not just the physical. Again, Jane Fonda touches on this topic in the short introduction segment; a great way to begin the workouts.
Overall rating for this product: Very Good. 4 out of 5.
First of all, how could anyone not be inspired and encouraged by anyone who looks as good as Jane Fonda does? I think she's absolutely beautiful. In her 70"s now (seemingly ageless!) and in much better shape than a lot of women in their 30-40's.
And she certainly is a pro when it comes to putting together an exercise video that is not only effective but fun and informative too. Hard to believe it was the late 1970's when her first exercise videos were available. How time flies!
The Jane Fonda Fit & Strong DVD includes two workouts, each approximately 30 minutes including a warm-up and stretches to finish. There is also an introduction (calming and empowering) and balance exercise (so important to maintain our balance) segment, both that are worthwhile adding to any daily exercise workout.
Jane Fonda not only explains each exercise well, she also shares interesting facts/stats throughout, the workouts about the importance and benefits of exercise. For example: did you know that people between 50-72 can actually increase their muscle mass/strength by as much as 200% with regular strength training exercises? Amazing! And we all know how important it is to stay strong, whatever age we are.
Jane also talks about the importance of balance and working to maintain a good level of ability in this regard, throughout our lives. Unfortunately, changes to balance start to happen in our 20's and decline from there. But with specific balancing exercises added to our daily exercise regimes, we can help to stem the tide. Such an important topic that from what I've seen elsewhere is usually overlooked when it comes to any type of exercise programs/DVDs.
The Jane Fonda Prime Time: Fit & Strong DVD is a very good way to ease back into an exercise program, if you've been unable to participate in regular exercise, for whatever reason. Even if it just comes down to being unmotivated or as in my case, having an injury that made my regular activities hard to continue on a regular basis. This DVD would be too easy for someone who is already working out at an intermediate level but that's just not the reality for a lot of us.
Some other things I appreciate about this DVD. Jane Fonda has a very soothing, relaxing voice to listen to. It's easy to focus on what she is saying and to follow her instructions to the letter.So many exercise DVD's are lead by instructors with annoying, grating voices that definitely don't add to the routines.
And speaking of instructions another helpful and appreciated point I noted with this DVD: when Jane is referring to working the left arm or leg...she is working the reverse herself, so that what we see facing the TV matches up with her instructions. So many instructors don't bother to do this.
The only thing that could be improved on this video is a minor issue. I found the background used for this workout distracting and "busy" looking. For example, there is a coffee table directly behind Jane Fonda when she is working out. When she is doing chair exercises, it looks like there are "wings" sticking out from both sides! A simple, attractive room without so much clutter would have added to the appeal of this DVD. Minor but something that could be improved upon.
If you stop by Amazon, you can read many positive reviews about this DVD. Some very touching personal comments included and written by people of all ages.
It really is never too late to get more physically active and strive to be in better shape. Our attitude is so important in terms of what aging well really means and in all areas of our lives, not just the physical. Again, Jane Fonda touches on this topic in the short introduction segment; a great way to begin the workouts.
Overall rating for this product: Very Good. 4 out of 5.
Excellent review. It's so true about our attitude and also keeping fit at all ages. So many people just give up on fitness and it affects so many other areas of life. This sounds like a good DVD to get back into regular physical activity. Ms. Fonda is definitely a very good example of aging well.
ReplyDeleteYou have me inspired! Maybe she can help me get rid of my spare tire!
ReplyDeleteI'm not surprised G. Back in the 80s she had a video out, can't remember the namer right now, but it was awesome. Shes funny and fit and she kept it fun. I did her video religiously 3 days a week and my women at large video 2 or 3 times a week and I lost a substantial amount of weight but more important I felt great!
ReplyDeleteI'm gonna check it out on Amazon and see if I can't get a copy.
Hi Joe, So much is about attitude, I agree. And Jane Fonda is one of the people de-bunking some of the myths that many people unfortunately have about aging. I really don't think age has all that much to do with fitness and wellness anyways. I know a lot of very young women who are in terrible shape: grossly overweight, eating junk, no exercise and at the other end of the spectrum, older adults who are fit, trim, active and looking great.
ReplyDeleteHi SandyC, I find it hard to believe you have a "tire" Sandy of that type LOL. If you need to get back into an exercise regime though, this is definitely a good video to motivate. Let me know!
Hi Cathy, I had her early videos too: one for weight training, a couple for aerobics. Apparently, one of them is the all time biggest selling exercise video! I agree, lots of fun and effective too. If you click through the links I've provided above, you'll get to this product page and they also list more Jane Fonda products there. These are my affiliate links so it's nice when people click through and buy from here. I appreciate it. :<)
Happy Mid-Week, G
America underestimated GI Jane.....she's a powerhouse, with real staying power.
ReplyDeleteWill have to look for it.
Jen @ Muddy Boot Dreams
A good workout without causing further injury? Will check it out.
ReplyDeleteGeri,
ReplyDeleteI've always enjoyed Jane's acting, such as "On Golden Pond". I'd like to see "The Dollmalker", based on a favourite novel, with Jane in the starring role. I even thought she did a good job in "Monster-in-Law".
She looks still healthy, and youthful here in this photo, she must be truly young at heart, I think.
This does sound like a good video, and program.
You have given it an excellent review, and you don't give just anything 5 stars!
Wishing you a great weekend!
Brenda
Oops! I'm sorry, I see now you rated the video 4 stars, which is still excellent. For some reason I read (5).
ReplyDeleteBrenda
Hi Jen, She is a powerhouse, I agree.
ReplyDeleteAs far as some of her earlier political activities (in regard to Vietnam etc..) she talks about this on her blog, and her sincere regrets about some of the things she said at that time. I can't think of anyone who's lived a long life, not having regrets. Still, they continue to bring this up, again and again. Over at Amazon etc...
Hi Rumpy, Works for me!
Hi Brenda, I don't give 5's too often. I didn't in this case, mainly because of the issues I had with the background used in this videos. Sounds like a small thing perhaps but it would be so much better, without the clutter in the room that was used. Easier to focus, just on the instructions.
Happy Weekend, G
Are you serious Jane Fonda is 70? I can't believe it myself. I need to take her training.
ReplyDeleteI've always enjoyed Jane's acting, such as "On Golden Pond". I'd like to see "The Dollmalker", based on a favourite novel,
ReplyDeleteExcellent review. It's so true about our attitude and also keeping fit at all ages. So many people just give up on fitness and it affects so many other areas of life
ReplyDelete