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DVD Review: Elle Beauty Sculpt Starring Brooklyn Decker
Posted on Jul 21st 2010 11:00AM by Kristen SeymourFiled Under: Celebs & Entertainment, Reviews & Products
I've always enjoyed Elle magazine as a source of fashion and beauty inspiration, but I can't say that it's the publication I turn to specifically for fitness advice. However, when I was offered a chance to try out the third DVD in Elle's Make Better DVD collection, I was intrigued. I'm always interested in new sources of fitness inspiration!
The DVD I received, "Beauty Sculpt," features model Brooklyn Decker (best known for the 2010 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover and her marriage to tennis player Andy Roddick) and is led by trainer Sara Haley, a Global Fitness Instructor for Reebok International and, as Decker calls her in one of the DVD's bonus features, a little ball of fire.
"Beauty Sculpt" offers two 25-minute workouts, both of which include intervals and light weight work, so even though the video doesn't specifically say you need hand weights, you do. I used five-pound weights, which felt just about right for me, but you'll want to adjust the weight to your level of fitness. After a couple more sessions, I think I'll probably move up to eight pounds.
Level of Difficulty
Intermediate with beginner modifications.
Next-Day Soreness
Moderate in the butt and thigh area.
Who's It For?
Those who are looking for a video that incorporates some strength training but works both big and small muscle groups simultaneously will enjoy this. Also, it's a good choice for those just starting a fitness routine and looking to improve: They can start out doing just one workout using the modifications and work their way up to a 50-minute workout without modifications.
Likes
These workouts flew by! The format is a slow interval, then a high-speed interval on your right, then the same on your left, and then, you're done with the workout, which I really liked. Haley cues really well and does a solid job of explaining the nuances of certain moves (like what you're working and exactly where your feet should be), which is really important for beginners. However, there wasn't too much instruction; everything flowed really well. I was worried that Decker would annoy me, but she came across as totally lovely, like someone I'd like to hit the gym with. You know, if I could dress her in something huge and baggy to preserve my self-esteem, that is.
Dislikes
I can't come up with any real dislikes about this DVD. It could be more challenging, sure, but then it wouldn't work as well for beginners.
Bonus Features
This DVD had a ton of bonus features, including interviews with both Decker and Haley and tips on packing in light and quick workouts that Decker employs. However, my favorite bonus features were the two bonus workouts; I really wish they were included at the end of the two Beauty Sculpt Workouts as a challenge rather than being in a place you need to navigate to.
Bottom Line
I liked the video; it has me interested in checking out the other two videos in the series. And hey, if it works for a Sports Illustrated cover model, it certainly can't hurt me, right?
If you like your interval training with a little more butt kicking, 30 Day Shred might be a good choice for you.
The DVD I received, "Beauty Sculpt," features model Brooklyn Decker (best known for the 2010 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover and her marriage to tennis player Andy Roddick) and is led by trainer Sara Haley, a Global Fitness Instructor for Reebok International and, as Decker calls her in one of the DVD's bonus features, a little ball of fire.
"Beauty Sculpt" offers two 25-minute workouts, both of which include intervals and light weight work, so even though the video doesn't specifically say you need hand weights, you do. I used five-pound weights, which felt just about right for me, but you'll want to adjust the weight to your level of fitness. After a couple more sessions, I think I'll probably move up to eight pounds.
Level of Difficulty
Intermediate with beginner modifications.
Next-Day Soreness
Moderate in the butt and thigh area.
Who's It For?
Those who are looking for a video that incorporates some strength training but works both big and small muscle groups simultaneously will enjoy this. Also, it's a good choice for those just starting a fitness routine and looking to improve: They can start out doing just one workout using the modifications and work their way up to a 50-minute workout without modifications.
Likes
These workouts flew by! The format is a slow interval, then a high-speed interval on your right, then the same on your left, and then, you're done with the workout, which I really liked. Haley cues really well and does a solid job of explaining the nuances of certain moves (like what you're working and exactly where your feet should be), which is really important for beginners. However, there wasn't too much instruction; everything flowed really well. I was worried that Decker would annoy me, but she came across as totally lovely, like someone I'd like to hit the gym with. You know, if I could dress her in something huge and baggy to preserve my self-esteem, that is.
Dislikes
I can't come up with any real dislikes about this DVD. It could be more challenging, sure, but then it wouldn't work as well for beginners.
Bonus Features
This DVD had a ton of bonus features, including interviews with both Decker and Haley and tips on packing in light and quick workouts that Decker employs. However, my favorite bonus features were the two bonus workouts; I really wish they were included at the end of the two Beauty Sculpt Workouts as a challenge rather than being in a place you need to navigate to.
Bottom Line
I liked the video; it has me interested in checking out the other two videos in the series. And hey, if it works for a Sports Illustrated cover model, it certainly can't hurt me, right?
If you like your interval training with a little more butt kicking, 30 Day Shred might be a good choice for you.
