I agree with Michele. Cardio Coach does not compare with any cardio DVD, except perhaps a spinning or treadmill dvd.
Reasons to get Cardio Coach:
- When I started working out at the gym, although I could handle an advanced cardio dvd, I realized being fit to run was an entirely different kettle of fish. I found it tough to run for 20 minutes non-stop, and one hour seemed un-imaginable. Partly it was because running needs a different kind of endurance. Partly because running was something I was doing without a dvd instructor for company and I was left to my own devices for motivation.
- After I started and sustained with cardio coach, my running abilities grew by leaps and bounds. Partly because I did not notice time fly from the music, fabulous production values, and from constant setting changes that interval running entails. Mostly because Sean is exceptionally motivating even as just a voice in my ear. I could still keep doing the same workout without outgrowing it even as I grew more fit. I just had to keep increasing my speed and incline settings for each high-intensity interval. Within two months of using Cardio coach 2 to 3x a week, running non stop for an hour including with intervals at high speed or at an incline, followed by slower paced recovery (i.e not just steady state which is much easier) was achievable.
- My running speed and endurance reached its peak in my late thirties, including when I was a teen because of Cardio coach.
- I discovered how Cardio coach could kick my rear even if I trained on a spin bike, stationary cycle or elliptical.
I think mixing machine cardio with step/kickbox is wonderful to keep your body guessing. Coming back to an IMAX after a long absence due to running, it was so hard to keep up.
So I say try and get both.
It is impossible to pick one favorite CC. I love Vol 8 and Vol 4 the best. Both have the best music in my opinion, but that is a matter of taste. The challenges are also superbly set up. Vol 6 , Vol 2 and Vol 7 come in at second place. The rest are fantastic too! Vol 7 and vol 8 are the most intense and the joy of discovering them after doing a lower volume for a while is quite something. For that reason I recommend getting a lower volume first before getting 7 or 8. After working at a lower volume and building up performance, being humbled while still dazzled by yourself for how you conquered Vol 7 or 8 is incredible.