Belly Blitz: 12 minute workouts to tone your abs with Suzanne Bowen [DVD]

Six segments, 4 x 12 minutes long, one 7 min and one 5 minute section. The 5 min session is a 'fat blast' which I thought would be rubbish 5 min cardio but actually involves key core ab exercises targeting all aspects of the abs so brilliant! 'Metabolism Bootcamp' is slightly different as it aims to do low impact high-intensity movements focuing on the legs. Think Exhale Core Fusion-type leg exercises:low squat, then pulses, up on your toes etc. 'Long Lean and strong' does what it says, and 'Absolute Challenge' (7 mins) is another tough set - pikes and the like.

As a whole, I found this DVD to be very tough, but effective, and a good step up from the 10 min solution 'blast off belly fat'. Probably wouldn't recommend this to someone who is just starting working on their abs as it might be a touch off-putting (start with the 10 min solution DVD), but can't deny it will be brilliant for most people. She also offers modifications through the various sections e.g. stay on knees when doing planks. Very good when added onto your usual cardio.

There's no messing, introduction or talk about benefits of doing the DVD. Put it in and it goes straight into a choice of sections or 'play all' option. The presenter is clear in her descriptions and I very much like her articulate and clear style. I've tried all sections now and my personal favourite (well, hate it but it's been very effective in flattening out my lower belly) is 'Sleek Physique' which is all about planks, planks with leg-lifts, side planks with movement etc. Even the 'classic abwork' does not follow the usual crunches. Rather you lift head and shoulders 'up and over' and do exercises in that position so you avoid using momentum though doing traditional sit-ups, and instead have to rely on ab strngth. Very tough, don't be discouraged it got ever so slightly easier for me on about the third session. The DVD reminds me of the Core Fusion Exhale DVD style exercises, so if you like those, try this as well (although this DVD seems much more interesting, perhaps because of the 12 min sections and number of diferent exercises in each section?)

My advice is that you need to be comfortable with engaging your core and 'zipping-up' as per pilates exercises, and to definitely have a rest if you feel strain in your lower back. There's also no cool-down sretches aside to break up certain exercises, but easily added on.

I tend to check out amazon.com reviews to see if a new product is any good and as another reviewer has said, it is sold as 'Gorgeous Core' in the USA. The front cover of this DVD implies there are only three sections which almost made me head off to buy the USA version but no, it is exactly the same. I also have 'Perfect Abs' which in comparison is also very good, but that one is a lot more traditional in terms of standard crunches, sit-ups etc. I much prefer this DVD as I find it more effective in terms of flattening out lower abs and cincing in the sides of the waist. I reckon if you do some reasonable cardio as well then you are onto a winner to see noticeable results around the waist section. I am apple shaped so have to work hard to try and cut the gut down, and I've seen a reduction in inch size so far, which for me means I'll continue using.

So having rambled for a while, my personal opinion is that a) it works, b) good format and timings, c)non-irritating presenter. Definitely recommend.

This is a brillant workout, it really works your whole core. The exercises are simple to follow but so effective I only do 2 segments at a time and feel like I have had a workout! You can do as few or as many of the segments as you feel you are up to or have the time for. Suzanne is also very good at giving moderations to each exercise depending on your fitness level because these exercises are TOUGH! They would challenge the most hard core fitness fanatics yet are still suitable for someone who has never done this kind of thing before because she explains everything so well and there is always a beginner or advanced option. I love the music too.

I actually got my DVD in the USA where Suzanne Bowen is very well known and at the top of the fitness industry. It has a different cover and is called Gorgeous Core with Suzanne Bowen, I don't know why the name has been changed for the UK version?? You can read loads of reviews on the US sites like www.amazon.com that review the dvd in detail and they all give 5 stars. It's definately a 5 star buy!

What at amazing and flexible approach to exercising. I have only had this for a week and have used it every day! By rotating the routines that I do each day it is like having a different workout everyday and I feel better than ever. I would recommend this DVD to anyone looking for a fun, fresh effective workout DVD with my whole heart.