Hi Lisa,
Glad to see that you're actively involved in the AoS forum..I'm an elder over there - LOL. At any rate, if you've already done Providence & Newport, I think it's safe to say that you're ready for any of the AoS challenges. The progression Providence->Newport->Firepower is actuallly the order in which the DVDs were released. You can also add in the downloadable workouts, which are also incredible.
Without being too long winded, here's my personal summary/input on many things AoS:
1)
Providence: Designed as a strength workout, using a single kettlebell. The workout is based on (15) 2-minute work/1-minute rest rounds, with varying kettlebell weights. The objective is to build strength, and in some sense muscular endurance. Your flexibility will also be challenged and improved with any AoS or kettlebell workout. "The Kettlebell Way" is a remake of Providence with tutorial sections added in. An MP3 version of Providence is also available on the website, which is really nice if you go outdoors or to a public place to train.
2)
Newport: Endurance based workout using a single kettlebell. The rounds are longer in Newport (usually 3-minute work/1-minute rest intervals, with a 5 minute snatch test at the end). It is advised that women use a 9kg bell, regardless of fitness level for this workout, and I strongly agree
. An MP3 version of Newport is also available on the website, which is really nice if you go outdoors or to a public place to train.
3)
Firepower: This was the third DVD in the AoS Workalong series, and introduces some double kettlebell drills. It is a mix of endurnace and strength, and is more programmable in nature, meaning you can opt for longer or shorter rest periods in between the rounds. Excellent conditioning workout that provides a nice mix between Newport & Firepower.
4)
Santa Monica: One of the newer AoS Dvd's uses a combination of kettlebells, ropes, body weight, dumbells, and barbells. This is a fun DVD if you're looking to really add and utilize more tools in your drills. Having been to Punch and worked directly with Anthony, I'd say that Santa Monica is very close to the Punch training atmosphere. It will kick your arce, as all of the AoS workouts will do for you - LOL.
5)
KB Clinic DVD: Excellent two-disc series designed with the beginner in mind. The first DVD is dedicated completely to form on many of the basic KB exercises. This is great for anyone who wants to fine tune their form, or is currently teaching others and needs advice on how to instruct some of the more complex movements. The second DVD contains 2 follow-along workouts, which are great for the beginner and advanced exerciser.
6)
Empire State: This was filmed and released around the same time as the new SantaMonica DVD. I don' thave this one and cannot comment on it.
7)
AoS Express (AoSx) Downloadable Workouts: Alot of people seem to forget about these workouts that Anthony offers, and I tell you that you don't know what you're missing out on! The AoSX series are some of the most challenging in the arsenal, IMO. I have them all (except for the upper cross), so just ping me if you have questions about specific workouts. I do suggest that a person be familiar with the foundation exercises: swings, get-ups, windmills, front squats, cleans, presses before progressing to the AoSx workouts.
I'm happy to get into more specifics about anything AoS at any time. Also, if you have questions about other instructors, please let me know. I'm a group fintess instructor, personal trainer, conditioning coach, and KB instructor; I'll be getting my AoS certification later this spring. I was first introduced to AoS in 2005, have made a few pilgramages to Providence to train at Punch, and have been a kettlebell nut for several years. I'm happy to help in any way that I can.
