In addition to helping you maintain a healthy weight, regular physical exercise helps you ward off chronic disease and maintain a happy mood and positive outlook on life. The Firm Body Sculpting System claims to engage you in enjoyable and safe regular physical activity to help you shed unwanted pounds and tighten and tone your body.
Function
You purchase the program's weight-training and cardiovascular exercise DVDs and perform them at home. The multiple video series features 30-day rotation intervals in which you perform different types of exercises on different days of the week, says the Firm's official website. You also have "rest" days each week to give your muscles time to recoup from the workouts.
Theory
The Firm's "Synergy Training" cardiovascular and strength-training videos utilize lighter weights but more repetitions than traditional gym workouts. This system simultaneously gives you optimal toning and aerobic conditioning in the privacy of your home, claims the Firm's website. Additionally, the program is designed for you to gradually work your way up from 3- to 8-lb. weights, so you don't overtax your body and become discouraged with the system. You can even begin the program without using weights at all, if desired.
Methodology
When you follow the Firm's 30-day sequence, you alternate upper- and lower-body workouts throughout the week. You also use varying weight resistances to sculpt your muscles, says the company's website, and perform the routines using various intensity levels to burn more calories and further accelerate your weight-loss attempts.
Considerations
The Firm's website says that you should start out using less weight than what you believe you can handle and gradually increase to heavier weights as you progress through the program. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) agrees. You should avoid injury during exercise by not trying to do too much too soon, says the AAFP, and slowly increase the level and length of the activity to achieve the best results.
Warning
Speak with your doctor about the Firm Body Sculpting System before you begin. Your doctor might suggest another fitness regimen based upon your individual medical condition or suggest that you hire a certified personal trainer to customize a workout routine for you.
