The Bottom Line
In Strike Zone, Tracey Staehle offers a solid kickboxing workout that will appeal to intermediate and advanced exercisers alike. There are nine kickboxing combinations that include a variety of kicks and punches, as well as more unusual moves (such as elbow smashes and strikes). The combos can stand alone or you can do them all together for a 60-minute routine. There are some quality issues, and the camera angles can be frustrating at times, but overall, this is a solid workout.
Pros
- A solid, straightforward kickboxing workout great for intermediate and advanced exercisers
- The combinations are short and easy to learn, while offering a variety of intensity levels.
- Good form tips for perfecting kicks and punches
- A mix of traditional and unique kickboxing moves along with fast-paced, motivating music
Cons
- Overall quality of the video is low
- Camera angles can be distracting
- Exercisers aren't always on the beat of the music
- Intensity isn't consistent
Description
- Instructor: Tracey Staehle
- Workout Type: Kickboxing
- Workout Length: 60 minutes
- Price: $19.99
- Fitness Level: Intermediate/Advanced
Guide Review - Strike Zone Kickboxing Workout by Tracey Staehle
What stands out about this workout is that it isn't as choreographed as most videos. Instead of 8-count combos strung together in a take-it-from-the-top format, Staehle offers nine combos, each 4 to 5 minutes long with a specific focus (cardio, drills, combat, etc.).
The Breakdown
There are 12 segments that can be done alone or together for a 60-minute routine.
- The Warmup: This 10-minute segment takes you through basic punches and kicks, with excellent form pointers offered by kickboxing master Josef Matthews.
- The Combos: The combos include a variety of punches, kicks and elbow strikes — all repeated a few times on the right and left. There are high-impact moves, such as jump-kicks, jumping jacks and speed bags, mixed with lower impact punches and kicks. The intensity changes with each combo, ranging from low to high, which may annoy some exercisers. The combos, however, move quickly, making the workout fly by.
- The Cooldown: This 8-minute segment includes classic stretches for the entire body.
Stand Out Features
- Combos are easy to learn and fun to do.
- Instructors are energetic and offer great form tips.
- Music is fast-paced and motivating.
- Some moves, such as elbow strikes, may not be seen in other videos.
- Workout format is unique and refreshing.
While there is plenty like about this video, there are some issues that may bother some exercisers. The overall quality of the video is poor and odd camera angles make it difficult to follow the workout. The background exercisers aren't always on the beat of the music and the intensity was inconsistent, with some combos bringing my heart rate up while others caused it to plummet.
None of the drawbacks would keep me from doing this workout, but some exercisers may find them a problem. Overall, Strike Zone is a good choice for experienced exercisers who want a workout with an attitude.
