T-Bow DVD Review - Body Toning (45 Minutes)

This is the second workout on the T-Bow dvd, and it starts with the same warmup as the Power Workout, before going on to show the same exercises that were used in the Strength/Toning section of the workout.

This is a bit disconcerting if you were expecting something different! But as far as toning workouts go, it’s about as good as they get, so here’s a quick rundown of what’s in it:

Back & Legs

Power bands attached, standing exercises to work and strengthen your back and shoulders, and squats with the bands to shape and tone buns and thighs. There’s plenty of time to follow along, instructions are clear (even with the mix of English and German!), and there are just enough reps to challenge the muscles without boring you to death.

Chest/Upper Back/Arms

It’s time to get down on the floor and do Pressups on the curved side of the T-Bow. Yes, you’ll hate them. No, you can’t miss them out! There is no better exercise to tighten the chest muscles and avoid  “sagging”, and that applies to Man-Boobs as well. There is no actual muscle in the breasts, but pressups will keep them looking perky!

This exercise also tones those troublesome muscles at the back of the upper arm and sculpts lovely shoulders, as well as working all your core muscles. Keep your knees on the floor unless you are a regular exerciser – trying to start with full pressups where just your toes are on the floor is a recipe for disaster if you are a new exerciser. You’ll put yourself off exercise for life and probably hurt your back.

Next we have an exercise with windmill arms, which works your upper back – the bit between the shoulderblades. It’s a good one; we do a similar one in Pilates class, but don’t add the bands unless you are experienced.

Waist & Side of Hips

This involves lying on your side over the T-Bow and will work your outer thighs as well. Sandra and the gang make it look easy, but you will feel as if your leg is about to drop off! Don’t worry – that’s normal. Just make sure you keep your back straight and don’t twist, and if your muscles get too tired, rest. This is concentrated work for muscles that are possibly very out of shape – take your time and you will get great results. Just not by tomorrow!

Abs & Glutes

Otherwise known as Tums & Bums exercises. You lie with your back on the T-Bow for these (told you it was versatile) and do crunches and oblique curls to trim your waist. Harder than they make it look! Again, don’t add the bands until you are stronger and can maintain good posture, or you’ll just make your neck ache.
A butt exercise follows – I know it as Shoulder Bridge, and it’s very effective for toning a shapely rear.

Lower Back and Core

These are exercises found in most Pilates classes; Sandra teaches them well. The last one, where you support your weight on one arm is immensely challenging; watch you don’t land in a heap!

This section finishes with the Stretch and Relaxation from the Power Workout, to give a good 45 minute toning and sculpting exercise session that’ll burn lots of calories. I’d recommend doing this one if you haven’t got time for the full Power Workout, as it will give you many of the benefits.