Review of Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition Workout DVD (After All the Controversy)
In what could be could be considered serendipitous timing (or not so serendipitous, I guess), we’ve been planning to review Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition: The Workout for a month or so now. And then this crazy whistle-blowing news hit (kind of like when this hit about The Biggest Loser), and we were like hmmm…let’s take a closer look at that workout DVD.
Now, I’ve never watched a single episode of Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition, and I’m not naive enough to think that all (or even most) of what you see on reality TV is actually real. So, I’m no expert on the show, re: what it does or doesn’t promote. I’m sure shady and unhealthy things like dehydration go on behind the scenes, and I have no doubt that losing a bunch of weight in a really short amount of time can cause quite a shock to the system and actually cause health problems. But does any of that show up in this Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition DVD? Nope. Not at all. In fact, I’ll call this one of the better beginner workouts we’ve reviewed.
While not as cute as Bob (who is, though?), trainer Chris Powell is likeable, cues well and has designed three full-body cardio and strength combo workouts (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3) that build in intensity, and each has its own warm-up and cool down. Level 1 is a good low-impact and slow 15-minute workout for someone who is just starting to work out for the first time or is overweight with limited mobility. Level 2 is a slightly longer (25 minutes) full-body workout that includes a few high-impact aerobic moves, but is still appropriate for beginners. Level 3 takes it to the next level with more challenging strength moves and extra cardio drills.
Nothing but your body weight and a mat is needed for all of the workout DVD sections, and modifications are shown for just about everything. Most of the moves are highly functional and really do boost fitness—not just make you look good or burn tons of calories. Powell is motivational yet gentle, and focuses on improving health above all else. Fans of Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition will recognize LaRhonda, Rachel and Alex (Courtney Crozier’s boyfriend!) in the DVD, and non-fans will appreciate seeing non-fitness models doing the moves. The fact that there are three levels also gives beginners new workouts to progress to.
Overall, the tone of the whole DVD is encouraging, uplifting and supportive. While I can’t vouch for what goes on behind the scenes on Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition, I know one thing: This DVD is perfect for beginners.
FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★
Music: ★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★1/2
Fit Bottomed Line: If you have a lot of weight to lose and don’t have a clue as to where to start, this Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition: The Workout can help!
Dying to try this DVD? We’ll select three random U.S. readers to win this beginner workout DVD. So leave a comment with why you want it, and we’ll pick a winner in about a week! —Jenn
Comments
I don’t really like the show, but I always love to try new workout DVDs!
After seeing Chris on Dr. Oz, I was very interested in trying this DVD, so winning would be the perfect opportunity!
Not a fan of the show – too extreme, but if this DVD gets someone off the couch and mov’n, then great!
Never seen the show but a new workout routine is always worth checking out!
I love Chris Powell and “EMWLE” and would love this DVD! I’ve been eying it since it came out! 🙂
I’ve seen the show and actually enjoyed it. Any show that shows people getting the stuff together and leading a healthier lifestyle is a good thing in my book! Would love to try the workout!!!!
I’m glad you separated your views on the DVD from what is going on with the show. The DVD sounds interesting from your description and I’d love to try it out.
I’d like to add this to my collection because it looks perfect for my teenage daughter, who’s a beginner. Thanks!
I would like to win this DVD because I have just had major foot surgery and once I’m able I will start working out again but I’ll have to start at beginner level and move up since I’ve been non-weight bearing for 2 months. This DVD seems to have all the ingredients I will need to get restarted on a regular workout schedule.
I want this DVD because I’m where they were. 400 plus pounds and needing a change in my life.
I would like this to give to my sister – a beginner in working out!
Congrats Tricia! You win! Sending an email to you now to get your mailing address.
Woot! Woot!
–FBG Jenn
I’ve never seen the show, but I’d love to give the DVD a whirl!
Glad the DVD is good, ’cause the show is AWFUL!!!!! (One man had a serious binge-eating disorder, and how did they handle it? By screaming at him, threatening him, and belittling him before FINALLY realizing he needed serious help. Eventually they sent him to an inpatient treatment program, but not before bringing him to the verge of a complete breakdown. I hate these shows!)
I would live to win this. It sounds perfect for me, someone at the beginning of her journey. I would like to win because I can use all the help I can get!!!
I love DVDs that use your body weight! It would be GREAT to have this one!
I have many pounds to loose. I workout at home so it would be perfect for me.
I love that this uses only body weight exercises-easier on the joints. I haven’t seen the show but this looks better!
never watched the show but this dvd sounds good!
I’d love to try a new workout, especially one that’s so highly recommended by you! I’ve been trying to lose weight for about four years, and I’m down 30 pounds in a 140-pound journey. I’ve mostly lost weight by eating better, since I haven’t been able to find a good beginner workout. It also sounds like this would be easier on the joints, which would be amazing, since joint problems are a big complication for me.
I have always LOVED to watch this show (controversy aside!). Very inspiring to keep me on my weight loss track. Would LOVE this DVD. I especially liked where you said you don’t have to use anything but your own body weight. THANKS!
I actually bought his DVD because I watched the show (gotta be honest here, Chris is VERY easy on the eyes!) and I really enjoy it – what I wish it had was something like a timer on the screen or something that could tell me the amount of calories I’ve burned – because I’m doing this workout but need to input my calories in and burned into My Fitness Pal, and yet, I’m really not sure how to categorize this. Any suggestions would be great. Right now I’m just listing it as aerobics general. 🙂
How many calories do you burn on level one. Can’t seem to find the answer anywhere.
How many calories do you think (on average) do you think is burned in the level 2 workout?
Nice review about Extreme makes over weight loss. I really appreciate your work. Keep the good work on.
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