Help--What Cathe video should I start with?

[wudnit]

I am an intermediate exerciser, but a beginner stepper. It took me a while to master Kathy Smith's Step Workout (I have two left feet, I swear), but I am finally comfortable doing the workout (with the exception of the only turn she does, which I still haven't completely smoothed out). Anyway, I ordered two more Kathy Smith videos hoping that they will prepare me for Cathe's tapes. I've heard such wonderful reviews, that I really want to give her tapes a try. I do NOT want to overload myself with basic videos. The new videos I ordered are "Kathy Smith - Great Buns and Thighs Step Workout" and her Power Step Workout."

Based on this, can any of you recommend where I should start with Cathe's tapes, without ending up with too many basic tapes.

Thanks!!

Mary

 

[jillybean]

The Kathy Smith's Power Workout is a great segue into Cathe. I did that video a lot before 'finding' Cathe and it really helped. I would suggest getting Step Heat (which is shorter) or Mega Step Blast (which is a good 'intro' to Cathe tape). I would also suggest getting MIC. Since you are new to step, this video has a hi/lo section and a step section. The step choreography isn't too complex. You could break the video into two sections and do the hi/lo one day, step the next. That is what I did. Four months later I did the whole tape at once and felt fearless!!! Have fun!!!

 

[wudnit]

Thanks Jillybean!! I just got my new Kathy Smith videos today and reviewed her Power Workout. It looks like it is going to be a lot of fun. If Cathe's videos are better than that, I'm really looking forward to checking them out. I will be ordering new tapes at the end of the month (it is my reward each month for continuing to exercise!!). I will look to buy one of the tapes you suggested! Thanks!!

 

[Stacy]

I'd also recommend her wedding video. It has basic choreography yet is still intense, and also has a strength workout using dumbells so you get two workouts in one.

Stacy

 

[jillybean]

Stacy brings up a good point. A lot of people start with the wedding video. I don't have that one, but like I said, a lot of people start there. Cathe's videos will blow you away compared with Kathy's. Have fun!!!

 

[Cruncholi]

Mary,

Welcome to Cathe-land! Glad you found the Forum.

Cathe's step tapes blow away Kathy Smith. Once you start with Cathe's step videos, you will never turn back (OK, maybe once in a while for variety). But, I think you should follow the others' advice on which Cathe tapes to consider ordering first. They are all good suggestions.

Just wondering if you are including strength training in your exercise program?? It really is essential to gaining maximum fitness benefits. Cathe's Wedding Video includes a very beginner type of weight lifting program at the end if you would like to give it a try.

Cruncholi (Linda)

 

[wudnit]

Hey All: Thank you all so much for your advice. Just so you know, I've ordered the MIC DVD and the MIS DVD and also have ordered the new PREBUY DVD.

I'm excited to try these. I figure I can always work up to the step tapes and am really ready for the next step in weights. I've been doing FIRM for about 2 months, but would like to begin the transition to Cathe and figure I can use lighter weights if necessary starting out. I have been doing FIRM STRENGTH and FIRM CARDIO and am finding that with FIRM STRENGTH I have moved up to my 10 lb weights for most things. The next dumbell size I have is ONE 15 lb dumbell, so it looks like I need to buy more equipment also!! I am planning on buying a barbell. Do they come with plates so that you can add weight as needed? I need an extra room in the house for all of my exercise equipment!!

I am happy to keep working on a video until I get it right, so think I'll be all set with these three DVD's for a long while!!

Mary