THE UK CORNER DVD REVIEW: Dance and Be Fit: Brazilian Body With Kimberly Miguel Mullen

    *As the cover would suggest, this DVD is full of energy. The beautiful setting of Kauai, Hawaii, was immediately captivating. At first, I wondered if the tropical, colourful background was manufactured, but being as it is authentic, it is easy to understand why you indulge in the escapism.

     But this is no holiday activity, halfway through the 48-minute programme I had to take a break, but unlike most exercise DVDs there is a lot to gain from simply watching the DVD for entertainment.

     Kimberly, who has a Masters in dance from UCLA, along with dancer Erica Jones and choreographer Gustavo Caldas, performs mesmerising synchronised routines including dances such as the Maculelê, Samba Reggae and Capoiera.

     Promising to burn fat and calories, and to strengthen abs and to increase stamina, I have yet to hear about a more fun way to diet! For once, the promotional text on the back of the DVD is right, there are indeed simple steps incorporating hip circles and torso pops.

     The original Brazilian music provides a hypnotic soundtrack with pulsating rhythms. Kimberley's instructions appear only as a bubbly and encouraging fluid voiceover, this is perfect, allowing you to focus on the visuals while almost subconsciously soaking in the instructions. The instructions are simple with phrases such as 'comb the hair' or 'punch it up.'

     I found I needed more space, but if I had my own gym, I would have a whale of a time with this DVD. Making shapes such as triangles, and V shapes with the legs and doing the runners lunge, even adopting the persona of a mermaid at times!

     Water is a major theme with chances to swim, do the backstroke and scoop up the water. There are even subtle references to energy and spiritual connections to be achieved.

     In these economic times it is worth buying a DVD to keep fit rather than investing in gym membership that is often underused. This DVD is value for money with four bonus features including snippets from other Acacia DVDs. I love the Samba de Roda routine - even I could do that, so if you are looking for a fun workout, give it a go! ©

     The Dance And Be Fit: Brazilian Body DVD is available now, courtesy of Acacia. | RRP: £12.99 | Running Time: Warm-up (6 mins); Maculelê (12 mins); Samba Reggae (12 mins); Capoeira (12 mins); Cool down (6 mins).

For more information visit: http://www.kimberlymiguelmullen.com/ or
http://acaciacatalog.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_51615_A_Dance+and+Be+Fit or
http://www.amazon.com/Dance-Be-Fit-Brazilian-Body/dp/B001B1Q2U4

The UK Corner covers urban entertainment from a British perspective and is written by Fiona McKinson. She is a freelance journalist and creative writer based in London. Contact her at info@thetalentshow.co.uk.