I'm suitably impressed by this product to write my first Amazon review. As someone who had lapsed in the fitness stakes before a first, pretty sedentary pregnancy, Erin's DVD has well and truly kicked this butt into shape. On my first watch-through I cringed at the all-American touchy-feeliness of it, but it's actually quite comforting when you're in the swing of the workout.
With three 15 minute 'progressions' that gradually increase in intensity (although I did feel there was more of a jump between two and three than one and two, but that's probably to be expected as you get stronger), this workout really does re-train the core muscles to oppose the pregnancy posture (curved spine, belly pushed out) and draw them back into their rightful place. Honestly, after the birth, I found myself being naturally pulled into that pregnancy posture when I relaxed as my muscles were so used to it, until I began exercising with this DVD.
The exercises are based on yoga and pilates with a few basic aerobics and ballet moves thrown in and, although the actual workout is short, it really is effective - I'm standing tall and feeling strong all day. The beauty is that, being only 15 minutes long, you CAN fit in an effective workout every day, even with a new baby. I began this routine at six weeks post-partum, and lost a half to one inch all over within three weeks. My spine was straighter, waist more cinched, chest, legs and arms stronger, and, best of all, the workouts became easier, so I knew I was progressing. Erin is encouraging throughout, letting you know she feels the burn too, and helpfully giving you reasons to continue through the squats (bikini season, getting out of maternity clothes! etc.). Six weeks on, I'm just about to finish this DVD and get back to a 'normal' workout regime.
I'm really glad I found this and would whole-heartedly recommend it to anyone post-partum. For the already fit, it will be a gentle and focused recuperation, and for those like me, a brilliant and inspiring first step on the road back to fitness.