Richard Simmons Rocks (oops, did I just say that?)

I'm always a little embarrassed to admit that I'm a faithful devotee of Richard Simmons' "Sweatin' to the Oldies 2" video. I guess it's due to the stigma attached to Richie and his own, er, unique style .. not to mention the fact that most people don't imagine a 20 year-old female dancing around to the oldies. But let me tell you, this tape is absolutely the most fun workout I've ever had.
The tunes are great - very recognizable and upbeat - and let's face it, Richie is a fantastic motivator. But don't assume it's an easy workout just because it's fun ... this thing never fails to make me sweat! There is a warmup period, then a 25-minute low-impact aerobic workout (I'm sweating by the time "Jailhouse Rock" comes around), followed by an ab workout, arm workout, and a cooldown. I'll admit that I can never make it all the way through the ab section, but there is one cool thing ... the ab portion is set to Aretha Franklin's "Respect" and for some reason I find this to be a great motivator :)
I especially like the fact that no one is exceptionally skinny in the video - it's a realistic cross-sampling of society. I don't know about you, but I just get frustrated when I'm forced to follow at hardbodies in action for 45 minutes (well, usually I'm in awe before I get upset when I realize my twice-a-week workouts will never reward me with such an awesome physique). It's refreshing to see REAL PEOPLE working out and suffering right along with you :)
So, if you're disillusioned with the regular workout routine and are looking for some peppy music to help you along, this video is made for you. I guarantee you'll be humming and smiling to at least a few songs ... you might even shout out R-E-S-P-E-C-T as you complete the ab routine :)