I was wondering if any of you ladies use dumbells when doing squats? and if there was a difference in the way it effects the muscles. i have heard of people using cords does anyone use these? I have a step that has cords at the end of the step. I can do squats on my step, it also has a bar and hand cuffs that came with it. what"s the difference between the barbell resting on the shouiders or dumbbells at your side? I would also like know of a good intermediate cardio tape without alot of jumping around i have weak ankles.