Workout DVDs for 2008

Natalie Cassidy's Then And Now Workout

(26 December 2007, Universal)
More than a few eyebrows were raised when Natalie Cassidy, known to millions as Sonya from Eastenders, 'unveiled' her new look having lost an impressive two stone. This DVD details the routines Cassidy employed on her way to toned perfection as well as the healthy, and surprisingly tasty, eating plan she followed.

Packed with plenty of high-impact cardio work, the exercises are no-nonsense while the commentary is basic and to the point. With a refreshing lack of cheesy motivational chat, this workout plan does exactly what it says on the tin.

Style: High-impact and back to basics.
Best bit: Seeing Natalie weighing herself 'then and now' is motivation enough.
Avoid if: You're afraid of 'feeling the burn'.
Get if:You're seeking a healthy route to long-lasting fitness.

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Strictly Come Dancercize

(3 December 2007, BBC)
If the last series of Strictly Come dancing has left you longing for the 'light fantastic' it's time to draw the curtains and hang the disco ball in your front room. Karen Hardy who sashayed to Strictly stardom with Mark Ramprakash and Erin Boag who boogied with Colin Jackson take turns to present workout versions of popular ballroom dances - the Salsa, Jive, Quick Step, Samba and Cha Cha Cha.

Get fit with the ultimate glitz - the girls wear skimpy bejewelled hot pants and silver trainers designed by Erin herself. There'll leave you feeling rather drab in your baggy tracky-b's and trainers.

Style: Latin and ballroom dances adapted to nifty routines.
Best bit: After the exhaustion of the pacey moves and efforts of co-ordination, the 'cool down' to the slowed-down Strictly Come Dancing theme doesn't come too soon.
Avoid if: You have two left feet or don't pick up routines quickly - you'll spend most of the time rewinding.
Get if: You like it camp or if you aspire to one day dancing with a partner!

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Tricia Penrose Before and After Body Blitz

(26 December 2007)
When Tricia Penrose pulled pints on Sunday night telly as Gina Ward in Heartbeat, little did she realise her fluctuating weight would cause more fascination than the storylines! The screen barmaid lost two-stone and nine waistline inches - and she's jumped on the before-and-after bandwagon to show you how. With her personal trainer at her side, good tan and displaying her svelte pierced navel, Tricia is guinea pig to fat burners, impact workouts and upper and lower body toners everywhere.

Style: Very GMTV but sensible, basic aerobic and toning exercises.
Best bit: The introduction where Tricia tells the before and after.
Avoid if: You want something other than another C-list workout DVD.
Get if: You ate a few too many mince pies over the festive season and want a quick, fix-it calorie-burner.

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