The Biggest Winner - How to Win by Losing: The Complete Body Workout (5-Disc DVD Set: Shape Up - Front, Shape Up - Back, Cardio Kickbox, Maximize - Full Frontal, Maximize - Back in Action)

For those days you want to break a sweat, but are limited on time, or just don't feel like driving to the gym.

I'm a huge fan of workout DVDs. I use them instead of going to a gym, since I can squeeze in workouts much easier at home with them. I mean, it's nice to be able to put dinner in the oven, work out, and then come and get it ready for the family!

I think this is a great work out DVD series to use.

What you should know: You'll need weights and preferably a step to complete most of the routine. (Why don't workout DVDs come with a big sticker on it that say "you need X, Y, and Z for this workout"?)

This workout is not for the faint of heart. When I first did it, I was really sore and fatigued. And that's just after a 30 minute workout! She does a good job of working multiple muscle groups at a time, as well as doing interval aerobic training.

One thing I don't like - I do wish she had an optional pre-warm up that was a little smoother. I do like to have just a moment to stretch out and literally warm up my body first prior to jumping in. Jillian's idea of a warm up is starting with 30 jumping jacks! So when I do these workouts now, I spend a few minutes before I start trying to warm myself up.

As a trainer, I like Jillian's no-nonsense kind of style. I like that she's sort of down to earth and playful with the others, but not in that cheesecake way that I hate from some trainers.

The set offers great variety. Of course I have ones I like more than others (Maximize, Back in Action is my favorite). But overall a great set for someone looking at short, effective work outs.

When I bought these I was looking for some sort of workout to do at home while it is freezing outside ( I live where it gets really cold during the winter). I decided to go with these DVD's as it came with 5 different workouts which I thought was a great deal that way you don't have the same workout routine everyday it allows you to do a variety of things. If you actually do the workouts as instructed and put your heart into it you'll find that it works you really good and you'll feel the workout afterwards. If you just put a half heart into it you'll feel like these are a waste of money. The one thing I wish I would have known before I bought these was she wants you to have special equipment like a stool and weights but you can improvise if needed. The only other complaint I have is that you have to watch her little video every time about how working out has changed her life.

I love Jillian...She really keeps you motivated! You definitely get a workout in less than 1/2 hr...
I saw my results in about two months...

AWESOME!!!
She really knows how to put you to the test.
You have to be fit to be able to keep up with her and her team though. Not recommended for those who don't exercise frequently already.