Hi! How the heck are you? Introduce yourself!

[NeonJungle]

Hi! My name is Harper, I'm 38, and have been working out to B/B/H videos since the early 90s. I live in the south, on a lake, and DH and I have a four-legged child, a yellow lab, who thinks she's human. I enjoy fitness, reading, writing, outdoor activites, and am trying my hand at painting lately.

So how 'bout you? What's up in your corner of the world?

[jezthepuff]

Hi Harper!!!:D

It's sooooo good to see this forum up and running! I'm very excited about this new venture. I miss the "old" Firm terribly and am disgusted about what GT has done to it.:eek:

I really like the looks of the new FitPrime/Kickbutt series, and my cc is going to get a workout today.

For those who don't know me, I frequent the YaYa boards, Videofitness (mostly lurk), and once in awhile Cathe.com. I have more videos than I can count (as Harper well knows!), and I live with my DH and kittycat in NE Ohio. I love to travel, read, watch movies, walk, bike, horseback ride, and do my videos! :rolleyes: My favorites of all time are the Classic Firms! :p

I'm looking forward to what's to come!
Jez

[Darli]

hello!

I was happy to get the Email about this forum as I have been out of the loop for a while. Years ago I logged in frequently to the old Firm forum but sort of stopped my workouts for a while, got too busy at work, you know how it goes. I recognize some of the same names from back then - I admire those of you who stick with it consistantly. Hopefully that's what I'll do - figured I'd log in and get some motivation from everyone here!

I'm from central Ohio, married to my hubby for 26 years, have two sons - one married and on his own, and the other is almost 20. So I feel like I have more time for me again!:D

[NeonJungle]

Welcome, Darli! Glad to see you here. Join our 2005 checkin if you'd like to! I find myself doing the same thing -- consistent for a while, life events get in the way, back to consistent...:)

Hi, Jezz! Glad to see you here! You know someday you're gonna have to count those videos for me... ;)

[JannR]

Hi Harper, Jez and Darli,

I feel like I know you ladies just from being around the boards since 2002…

I am a 48 retired computer specialist. I have two grown sons and live in Maryland.

I have collected many videos since my first firm. And learned so much from everyone’s experiences.

I am looking forward to these new workouts. I feel like I am coming home. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[kepi]

I don't post often here. :)

I'm 48 and live in Washington state.

I've been married for almost 26 years and have two children, a son who will be 23 this year, and a daughter who will be 21 this year.

Kepi means Debbie in hawaiian.

[Tarheels]

Hi there! It's good to see lots of familiar names.

I'm Jennifer, and I've been a FitPrime fan since before there was even a forum, and a Firm fan since I was 14 years old! I am just finishing up my Ph.D., and I am enjoying my first job in my field as a psychologist working with children. Most days I can't believe I get paid to do what I do because, although it can be stressful (what job isn't?), it comes so naturally for me and is so rewarding.

I am the proud Mommy to two kitties, and possibly a puppy in the near future. :D

I used to post under "FirmHeels" on almost all the boards (I've had the name for almost five years now when everyone was "Firm...something"), but I'm just plain Tarheels, which is the mascot for my undergrad alma mater, UNC. Go Heels!

Welcome to everyone, and I look forward to this upcoming venture and fitness and friends. :)

[44yoCurmudgeon]

Hello,

I'm a 44 yo F from WA state. I thought I'd try a new screen name for change of pace (maybe someone will recognize me?...eventually). I'm a 2.5 yr vidiot but it feels like 30 yrs sometimes.

Why is the dot after my name green while others' is black? Hmmm....

[Tarheels]

Hello,

I'm a 44 yo F from WA state. I thought I'd try a new screen name for change of pace (maybe someone will recognize me?...eventually). I'm a 2.5 yr vidiot but it feels like 30 yrs sometimes.

Why is the dot after my name green while others' is black? Hmmm....

Your dot is green because you are online/logged in on the forums right now. :)

[susanp1963]

I am susan p at VF and the YaYas, like anybody hasn't figured that out already! LOL!

41 year old homeschooling mother of three daughters (ages 7, 9, and 13), currently supervising a sleepover and trying to resist the Ghiradelli brownies the girls just made. . . chewing mint gum frantically. . . ;)

I've been working out on and off since 1985 when as a newlywed I did Gilad's Bodies in Motion TV show in an itty bitty Married Student Housing apartment. I've been fairly regular since 1998 when I discovered home videos and VF.

I've been paring back recently because I am getting achey and sore when I work out too much too hard. I'm finding my cardio endurance is as good as it was when I was younger, but when it comes to strength I need to move JUST A BIT SLOWER to avoid injury, and whether I'm doing cardio or strength I need to warm up more thoroughly and stretch more thoroughly. Those are my concessions to my agedness. I'm happily intermediate in fitness level.

I have a friend who is trying to convince me to join her bellydance troupe. . . that might be my next little fitness adventure, who knows?

[kkshedevil]

Hi, everyone! I'm Susan's stalker.:D

Harper hasn't been around much on the other boards I frequent, so I figured she'd be here.

I've been around the boards for awhile now, and so I know a lot of you guys. I'm 47, do not have weight issues, but am very frustrated by knee and hip problems that are really cramping my style. I have an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain, so I'm scheduled to see my rheumatologist soon.

I work 30% time for the University of Wisconsin Medical School Department of Pediatrics. It's not a very exciting job, but the hours are flexible and I have a sane boss for the first time since 1990.

Little known fact: I'm a flaming liberal who loves to rabble rouse.:eek:

[anetta]

Hi, I'm Anita

I live in Missouri. I'm 43 (almost 44) have been married almost 18 years and have one son who is 7. I first discovered the Firm in 1987, although I have been far from consistent, I am starting from scratch again!! My biggest problem is starting out slowly I always overdo it. Oh well live and learn (now that I'm older my body won't let me overdo too much) LOL

Thank you Harper for these threads.

Anita

[firmwood]

I've been off fitness sites since my beloved mumsters went down. But was so thrilled to get the email and see Anna back in biz--dare I hope Mark's involved?

Anyway, I haven't really been around the board yet--just signed up last night and plan to get the vids asap. Just in time really...I turned 39 this week and I'm battling the SPREAD. I've been firming and now fitpriming for 17 years, but I returned to teaching this year after staying home with babies and I am really struggling with getting my workouts in and this is just the motivation I need! My schedule is insane so it takes a lot of will power to come home and workout, but new videos, spring clothes and this site might be able save me from elastic waist bands.

[Buzz]

Hi!

I'm Jude. I'm a big fan of BBH firms, and discovered them about 3 years ago, and haven't looked back since! I also love my fitprimes, and anxiously await the new ones! :D

[pugw]

Hi, my name is Rhondalyn and I live in central KY. I'm a 46 yo wife and mother of three. I'm a RN but haven't worked for about 3 years. I started with the Firms in the 80's and was in the best shape of my life then. Unfortunately, things have changed.:) I have recently committed to seriously take off this extra weight. Like Susan, I am happily intermediate in my fitness level. OH, and I am a sugar addict.:rolleyes:


Rhondalyn

[Martha E]

Hi! Another Southerner (East Tennessee) checking in. I'm 57 and bought my first Firm in 1986 for $50. I really couldn't afford it, but I'm glad I bought it. I've exercised consistently for over 25 years, although not always using videos. I don't have weight issues, but of course that doesn't mean I don't need to exercise. :) I'm a big fan of AWT, so ordering all 12 WHFN releases was a no-brainer for me, even before I saw the workout/infomercial clips.

In real life, I'm an editor. Strangely enough, one of my favorite off-hours pastimes is reading, although my pleasure reading is quite different from my job-related reading. I'm also a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan. Spring training is just around the corner! :cool:

[Tammy]

Hi! I'm Tammy from WA state. I'm a sahhm (stay at home homeschooling mom). I love to exercise!!!!!!!

Remembering with fondness the FitPrime "angel" deal and how far Anna has come!!

[newbodi]

;) Hello, My name is Allie. I am 40 years old, soon to be 41 next month. I am married, for 13 years and I have 2 girls ages 9 and 11. I am from NYC. I have been doing the Firm workouts on and off for the past few years. But I know that when I workout to the Firm on a regular basis I was in the best shape of my life. I am really looking forward to getting the new tapes that are coming out and I am anxious to start the rotation that goes with them. I am trying to post more often on this site. And I hope to get to know you guys better.

[LoriInND]

Lori in ND here. I am married and have 4 children,14 y/o DD, 13 y/o DSS, 4 y/o DS, and 10 m/o DD. I have been Firming since 1996. I bought volume 1 for myself for my birthday and was hooked. I have worked out regularly since then, except during the 2 pregnancies during those years. I am really excited about the new workouts from WHFN. :D

[artistaii]

Hi! I'm Liz and live in Maryland. I started using the Firm back in 1987 and did it religiously for YEARS! I was a stay at home mom and had the time to do it. After returning to the work force I found that my time for exercise was slowly decreasing until I realized (about a year ago) I had virtually stopped working out at all. =[ I'd try and to back to my old workouts only to feel defeated because I couldn't workout anywhere near where I had once been. So tried the 'new' Firm - but didn't like it much. I got out volume 1 yesterday, forgave myself, and told myself to do the best I could. I felt so great, and it was wonderful to be back to the REAL Firm. I decided to google Susan Harris to see if she'd done anything, that's when I found Fitprime. I'm so happy! The is the original FIRM!! I can tell by the nutritional advice, sound science and comprehensive program. Am I ever happy!! Almost as happy as when I was privileged enough to work out at the Firm studios with Susan for an entire week while on vacation. She kicked my butt!!

Great to meet you all - I hope this is a new beginning for me!!
Liz

[KristaCarter]

My name is Krista. I am the mother of 7 children. I gave birth to four of them and three came with my marriage. Five boys, two girls ranging from 19 mths. to 9 years. I am almost 30 years old, 5ft. 7 1/2, and 125 pounds. I weigh 30 lbs. less now than I did in high school. Thanks to Firm and FitPrime.

In 1999, I was searching for challenging workouts that wouldn't "waste my time". I had tried a ton of different videos, but none of them seemed to really work. I was fortunate enough to be searching for some good tapes at Media Play, when another customer came up to me and said, "I wouldn't waste your time on any other videos, I would buy The Firm". I took her advice and now have been doing The Firm for 6 years and FitPrime now for approx. 2 years. I love the older Firms, but don't care for the new ones. FitPrime is really challenging. If you think you don't have time to exericise, try coming to my jungle. You can't give away what you don't have-Keep your body healthy.

~Happiness is the JOURNEY not the DESTINATION~

[Jessica]

My name is Jessica, and I used to be known as FitPrime's B!tch. :rolleyes:

I just turned 22 and I am almost done with my degree (a BS in Social Science) and I am waiting to hear from graduate schools. I want to teach elementary school.

I have been working out to Firm workouts off and on since I was 13. I reaffirmed my commitment to fitness when I was 19 and cried because I could not finish the "Boomers" workout (Vol. 6). I have been Firming and Fitpriming (?) stealthily since that sad June day in 2002.

I have three Basset Hounds (ages 4, 5, 7) and I currently live at home, but I just moved back for the third time in four years. (Move out, run out of money, move home, save money, move out, run out of money, move home...)

Jessica

Why can I have a picture on my profile page but not as my avatar? Harper?

P.S. If I ever grow up, I have to decide whether or not to be a Bond girl or rockstar :D

[Tammy]

My name is Krista. I am the mother of 7 children.

Just saying Hi from one mom of 7 to another. :D Mine are all boys and all with the same hubby. I just had to say hi.

[leeanng]

Is this the new Fitprime forum? I'm Lee Ann and have been lurking around on the other forum. I can't wait to get the new Fitprimes. They look like fun! I like to workout, (I'm out of shape but working on it) I love to ride my horses! I have a Dutch Warnblood and a thoroughbred. I am a teacher and I love to work with my kids. I have 3 grown children, and one beautiful grandchild! We also have parrots. Two cockatoos, 1 green wing macaw, 1 african grey and 2 budgies. One that flew in our yard about 4 years ago and never left. I live in Spokane WA. Anyone else from Washington out there?

[gaildenise]

Hi all. I'm Gail and have been doing the firm since the originals. I'm 54, married to DH for 18 years, one step-daughter. I haven't been around any of the boards lately, but when I got Anna's email I had to come back. I ordered all 12. I have over 100 exercise videos/dvds but stopped buying any new ones because I always went back to the original Firms. These new "Original" firms are just what I've been trying to find all these years. I don't post much, but do recognize a few of you guys.

It feels good to be back home.

[momof4]

Hi, I'm Kelly! It's great to hear about other moms who are into fitness. I have a boy and three girls, ages 8 to 15 months. I work out all the time, but need to get my sweet tooth under control! I'm excited about the new videos. I love all the original firm, and the new firm. Wasn't wild about the old FitPrime. Don't get me wrong, the music and moves are great, but it was a little boring with only the instructor, no class. Anybody agree with me here? By the way, what happened to Tracie Long? She is my favorite instructor. Looking forward to hearing from more of you! - Kelly

[kmlaew]

Hi everyone, my name is Karen. I'm married 39, three kids 10,7, 3. I currently alternate between running, Cathe and the Firm. I Firm on my light days. I'm looking to change my workout up a bit. I love running and Cathe, but they are a little though on the body. I really want to continue to work out 5-6 days a week. My knees aren't too crazy about the new Firm box. I never had problems with them until I started using the incline for aerobics. I think these workouts will be ideal. I'm pretty sure we don't need to kill overselves with every workout we do. I'm happy with my weight and muscle tone. I've just had some injuries in the last three months that I'm not too happy about. :o

[suebee]

I'm Susan just turned 46. I have been a lurker on the old Fitprime forum since day one. I have every Firm workout (classic and new). I 'm really looking forward to the new workouts. I have the Fitprimes on VHS but really want these on DVD. The previews look fantastic. Can't wait!!!

Susan

[NeonJungle]

It is so great to hear from all of you. :) Thanks so much for introducing yourselves, and look forward to learning more about you all!

[Laura Petrie]

Hi, I'm Sage. I'm 29 and I look & feel better than I did at 19!

I've been Firming for 5 years and initially lost 45 lbs. with Volumes 1 & 2. I was featured on the first Goodtimes Firm infomercial and recently earned my personal trainer certification.

I'm looking forward to the new FitPrimes because they remind me of the Firm Classics, hopefully they'll be just as effective! My collection had been lacking the "good stuff" since Goodtimes took over The Firm.

I've recruited quite a few new Firmies in the past 5 years and if the new FitPrimes are as good as I'm expecting, I look forward to converting my Firmies to FitPrime :)

[skellygrrl]

Hey, everyone, I'm Skelly (as most of you know!). I am 33 years old, live in a fabulous New England city with DH, and own far too many fitness vids. My first Firm was Volume 1in the early 90s and I have had an on and off relationship with the Firm and Fitprime ever since. I have other "main courses" but always come back to them for variety every now and again.

I am definitely curious about this new endeavor and look forward to learning more! http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/smile.gif

[FitChick21]

Hi! My name is Teresa and I am a 20 year old college student. I LOVE fitness and health. I was 20 pounds overweight when I was 16 and had struggled with my weight for a quite a long time previous to that. I finally got it under control and went from a size 10 (which is big for my height/frame) to a size 4 in clothes. I actually have muscles now! Never knew those were under all that fat!:p I am a die-hard FIRM and Tracie Long Productions fan. I am very excited for the launch of the new FitPrimes! :) I am a member of Tracie Long's site under the tag TMBlandino in case anyone here is also a member of that site and has seen my posts around :) Can't wait to try out Anna and Cynthia's new stuff!:D


Teresa

[cyana]

I'm typically registered as cyana on various sites, all the way back to the original Firm forum. My home fitness journey started in 1985, after I gave birth to my son. I found Gilad's Bodies in Motion on ESPN and thought "hey, I could do this." I eventually started taping the programs, so I could do two work-outs back to back (my introduction to fitness videos, I suppose!) During Gilad's show is where I first saw the commercials for the Firm Volume 1. Since I wasn't working, I couldn't afford the $50 price tag, but I was intrigued by what I was seeing. When the Firms started to hit retail, and I found the web site - the acquisitions began in earnest. I started out with Volume 3 and Standing Legs, and acquired a substantial collection of pre-GT Firms. I've never found any work-outs that I prefer after all these years, so I'm tremendously excited about the current BBH project. And yes, indeed - I've already ordered all twelve and will be counting the days until they arrive. But that presents another dilemma - how in the heck will I decide which one to do first? http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[snora]

Hi! I'm 48 year old Susan. Married for 25 yrs. with a 21 yr. old DD and a 17 yr. old DS and 3 cats. I work as a Library Media teacher in a K-2 building in suburban Chicago.
I started with the Firm in 1991 after I stopped smoking. I went from the Firm to Fitprime and now, I guess, WHFN. I occasionally do other videos. I also take a yoga class once a week and LOVE to swim laps.
I attended 2 FP Live events and love the women that I met and I also love my friends on the 50 and Almost 50 board.

[LarryV]

To be honest, I feel a bit funny registering in a forum on the WHFN :)

However, I've been working out with the FIRMS since around 1987 or so and haven't found anything that's a better workout than the FIRM. I was a member of the previous FP forum, and I enjoyed the camaraderie and respect amongst the members. I probably will be pretty quiet for the most part, but I find the forums to be an invaluable resource, so here I am. Despite the (and I'm using Medical Mark's term here ;) ) fem-centric focus of the new workouts, I don't believe that workouts are gender focused. A good workout is a good workout period. I think we all suffer from the same basic effects of aging. Anyways, I don't want to be an anonymous member, so here's a bit more info on me.

- Married, but currently separated and probably will get divorced.

- Have a wonderful daughter.

- Play guitar and have a rock/blues band named RhythmStix which keeps me pretty busy.

- Have a recording studio in my basement called Birdz Studios where I work on projects with friends.

- I work as a software engineer for a prominent computer company.

Cheers all!

[mimosa]

Hi! I'm Mimsy1 at the Ya Yas and I've been around since the days of the original Firm forum. I starting Firming when Vol. 1 was released but my tapes and fanny lifters were collecting dust until I discovered the forum many years later.

I live in Brooklyn, New York and work across from the United Nations in a law firm. I have a 21 year-old daughter who's in the service and 4 cats at home.

Larry, I agree that the Firm workouts are not for women only. My ex-husband got in awesome shape by Firming and has been doing the workouts for years. We're glad to have a man's point of view and hope that you'll post often.

Nice to see so many old friends and meet some new ones.

Suzy

[FitChick21]

Yes Larry, it would be great to get a man's point of view on the workouts and on health and fitness! Please don't be too quiet!:)

Hi! I'm Mimsy1 at the Ya Yas and I've been around since the days of the original Firm forum. I starting Firming when Vol. 1 was released but my tapes and fanny lifters were collecting dust until I discovered the forum many years later.

I live in Brooklyn, New York and work across from the United Nations in a law firm. I have a 21 year-old daughter who's in the service and 4 cats at home.

Larry, I agree that the Firm workouts are not for women only. My ex-husband got in awesome shape by Firming and has been doing the workouts for years. We're glad to have a man's point of view and hope that you'll post often.

Nice to see so many old friends and meet some new ones.

Suzy

[Tarheels]

I'm Jennifer, 28. Used to post under FirmHeels way back on the old Firm Forum, Ya Yas, old FitPrime, etc. Now just down to Tarheels, my undergrad alma mater. I'm living in North Carolina again after moving three times/living in three different states in the last two years. I'm a psychologist who's finally going to finish my dissertation in the next couple months so that all my grad school will be worth it! :p I've worked out with the Firm since I was in high school and have exercised and been active pretty much my whole life until last year when I stopped putting myself as a priority and worked myself to death. That's changing this year!

Larry, I also hope you'll keep on posting. You contributed a good bit to the atmosphere of friendliness and respect on our "old" forum, and I hope you'll continue to do so here! Plus, we have to talk about Survivor over here! :p

Teresa, I bet you are going to love these new workouts since you love the Firms and TLP so much. Your story is quite an inspiration!

Cyana, I remember you from way back. I think you like the Tarheels, too? But I could be mistaken??? (If I have the right person, "we" won again tonight! :D )

Suzy, I remember you from Ya Yas. It's great to see you over here!

Susan, You know just how I feel about you! :) Can I just say, I've met you, and there's no way I believe for a second that you are going to be 50. No way!

Jude, muah!

I'm out of time, but I did want to say hi to everyone!!!

[FitChick21]

Hi Jennifer,

Thanks for the greeting, that was so nice! :) I would love to hear your success story sometime! PM me if you'd like.

[LauraGG]

Hi! I'm Laura. I used to post sometimes a few years ago on the FitPrime boards. I bought Volume 1 of the original Firm for $50 dollars back in 1987, and have never found a better way to be fit. I own maybe 15 Firm videos, and I even did the 90 day rotation once! Wow! did I look awesome, LOL!

I am 43 years old, have been married almost 18 years, and have two great kids: a son who is 10, and a daughter, 8 years old.

I am not overweight, per se, but I have an issue with *consistency* in exercise. Every year, I get into great shape using my old Firm videos, hiking, swimming in the ocean, and doing yoga, and pilates videos. I start in the spring, around March, and keep it up consistently until about November, and then at some point in November, I let it all go and hibernate. I usually gain 5 to 10 pounds (I used to gain more in the winter, so I'm pretty happy with my current weight at this point in the year), but the real problem is by this point I am sluggish, and have to really kick my own butt to get back into gear. Every year I get older, it gets harder to kick my butt into gear.

I was psyched to see Anna's e-mail, because I need some new inspiration. I just bought the new FitPrime series of 6 DVDs. They look fantastic, and I can't wait to get them. It's like Anna read my mind: At this point in my life, I really want to incorporate yoga and pilates into my week, but then I tend to skip the cardio and weight training. I trust Anna's wisdom, and know that if I just do the rotation the way it's laid out, I'll get great results. And she's figured out all the specifics for me about how to incorporate yoga, pilates, cardio, and weights. Amazing!

I'm so happy to have this forum, and happy to meet you, and/or re-meet you!
:)

[Marillion]

Hi All!

Like all of you, happy to be here! I'm a 34 y.o. new mom (ds is 6 months) and have been doing the Firm since 1996, starting with Vol 1, Standing Legs and 5 Day abs. I used to work as a flight attendant, and I credit doing the Firm tapes with keeping me injury-free in a sometimes hazardous work area!

I think I am in the minority here in that I love, love, love the ballroom aerobics sections of Tortoise and Hare!

Look forward to getting to know everyone!

Anne

[joannafit]

hi everyone!! i am on several other boards as joannafit or joanna33..but i am 35 now!! i had a few videos in 1990 like jazzercise..and got away from home exercising..until i had my son..who will be 5...and with a little searching on the internet, i found collage &VF and then i saw the infomercial for BSS1...so i acquired my FIRMS backwards......have 40+..love the BBH FIRMS, and am looking forward to getting these workouts. I work part time as an RN and am SLOWLY dabbling getting my nurse practioner! I am married and enjoy indoor/outdoor gardening, dining with friends, and various fitness activites!!

[cyana]

Jenn - You have a good memory! I am indeed a native of NC, and a life-long TarHeel fan. I did watch the past 2 games on TV, and am really happy that Roy decided to "come home" to Chapel Hill. It's been great to be able to look forward to basketball season again. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Tarheels]

Jenn - You have a good memory! I am indeed a native of NC, and a life-long TarHeel fan. I did watch the past 2 games on TV, and am really happy that Roy decided to "come home" to Chapel Hill. It's been great to be able to look forward to basketball season again. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

I'm so glad I remembered the right person! :D I couldn't be happier about Roy returning home either. I returned home this year myself after 5 years away, and am very happy to be back in NC. Good to see you!

[Tarheels]

Welcome to Anne, Joanna, and Laura!

[Acct]

Hello all!


I am brand new to Women's Health and Fitness Network and I like what I see! :D

I started on my fitness journey in January of 2002. Since then I have lost 47 pounds and am on my last 10. It's been a slow process but that's okay. After having 5 kids I don't expect to trim up overnight.

I started out exercising with Denise Austin back in 2002 (even was in her infomercial that aired about twice last summer :o ) and last August I discovered the Firm. I haven't looked back. I love the Firm workouts! I've seen great results with them.

I am a moderator on another fitness forum and enjoy getting to know others that are into living a healthy lifestyle.

[sillyslim]

Hi everyone!

I've been lurking for about 2 years on the FitPrime forum. I've been 40 for 1 whole day! I'm married and have two wonderful boys! (13 and 11) I started firming way back with Susan's Vol. 1 and have been on and off again firming ever since! I usually rotate walking with a friend and firming every other day. (when I'm good!) Neon Jungle, I'm from South too! Alabama to be exact! I'm dying to know what lake you live on! I've ordered all 12 new DVD's and can't wait to start them! I started doing all Firm's (Anna's of course) and then I'll work my way up to the FitPrime's and should finally be in shape just in time for my new workouts! It's nice to meet everyone!

Sally

[katy]

Hi everyone!

My name is Katy, I'm 32 and I live in Maryland. I've been married for 2 years and I have two furry kitty kids. I've been working out with the Firm for about 10 years now. Some of you may know me from the other boards, I'm katy, katys or Katy K.
Recently I've been using the Beachbody line - Slim Series and P90X, and I love my TLP's (Fitchick21 - I'll be seeing you on the TLP boards!) I also take dance classes and fitness classes when time permits.
I can't wait to check out the new Fitprimes - I love variety in my workouts.
It was nice meeting you all.

Katy

[steen]

My name is Christine, when my neice and nephew were little they called me Steen and it has stuck with my friends, hence my user name! I am 37 years old, no kids but still trying. I loved the old FIRM and really don't like the new firm so was thrilled to see FitPrime! I work as a biologist in Canada and love the outdoors, especially wilderness canoe trips. I did an 8 day solo trip this summer and was strong enough to do that at least in part due to my FP workouts!

[stacy4ft9]

Hi! I'm Stacy and have started with The Firm Vol 1 almost 9 years ago and found FitPrime (Thankfully!) over 2 years ago and fell in love! I am 4' 9" and used to weight around 150ish. Anna's workouts have helped me to change my lifestyle, along with changing my eating habits. I am one of the infomercial participants (Stacy DeMarce) and had such a great time in South Carolina when taping the infomercial.

[goldengirl52]

Hi I'm Janice(goldengirl) I am 53 and have "Firmed" FitPrimed, for many, many years. I've lost more than 80 pounds from my heaviest and am working on the last 35 or so pounds. I was fortunate enough(like Stacy) to be part of new infomercial coming out soon. What an honor that was! Thanks Anna. I'm married to my soulmate and have been for 35 years. We have 3 kids and 5 and 1/2 grandkids. New one due in May! My youngest son is getting married in March and I'm working HARD to get as toned as possible before then. It's great to "meet" all of you. I have my regular posters on the "50 and almost 50" thread but it's nice to meet others who share my passion. That's about it...next?...Janice

[bettialice]

Hi everyone. Bettialice was my childhood name but am called Betti these days. I live in the country in Southwest Texas between Corpus Christi and San Antonio. When I am not outside gardening, I try to keep fit with videos. As an older exerciser I have to modify a bit. No high impact anymore for me. And I have no one who is involved with exercise, so I really appreciate these boards and all the splendid advise and information and comradery posted here.

I have 2 grown sons and 3 grandsons. They are pretty scattered around these days so I don't get to see them too often.

I finally figured out that in order to lose weight, I just had to control the portion size of my meals. In 13 months I lost 13 pounds, so it has worked. Still have about 8 to go but it will be slow and easy like this past year.

Isn't it great that we have a few men on board to get their viewpoint? Keep your posts coming guys.

[froggy]

Howdy all! My name is Julie and I'm a mom of 3 boys. I've been on vf for a long time but mostly as a lurker. I bought Firm vol.1 in 1996 and have been in love with firm w/o's ever since. The only one of the old Firms I dont have is Ballroom Aerobics :( I am also a huge fan of anything Beachbody, Tae Bo, and Khi Bae with Silk Manning. I can not wait to add these new whfn w/o's into my rotation! :D

[materialsgirl]

Hi everyone! I just joined WHFN yesterday, and ordered the whole DVD 12-pack. I am so excited to get them! I have been Firming for a couple of years now, which is like nothing compared to some of you who have been doing it on the order of decades. :)

I am 26, recently married (almost 1 year!) and have 3 furry feline children - Chip, Mila and Theodore. I work full-time as a design engineer for a very well-known company. I don't have a lot of time to exercise, so what I have always loved about Firm workouts is their ability to be very effective in a relatively short amount of time. Hoping to see the same kind of thing with these new FitPrime and KickButt workouts.

I look forward to getting to know you all. ;)

[tonyalc]

Hi there everyone! :) Just thought I'd post my hello's to everyone over here~This looks like a nice bunch!! I recognize several from other Fitness boards.

I'm 32 years old and have one dd, she's turning 13 this month.:eek: I'm happily married and have 3 dogs and 2 cats. I look forward to reading more of the board about the new workouts and am currently thinking about selling some of my less-used workouts to purchase these!! :D

[Tarheels]

I just wanted to say welcome again to everyone! I recognize many names from other boards. We are happy to have you! :D

[NeonJungle]

What Jenn said! :) So nice to see y'all! :D

[mrsschopen]

Hi :D My name is Carolyne. I am 43 years old. I love cats and have a 15 year old. He was just a kitten when I started Firming back in 1990. I love to hike, bike and anything I am able to do outdoors. I long for the Southwest but have to wait to go back there until my DH is done with the Navy. He has a few years to go. We are currently in the Mid-Atlantic. He shares my interests in the outdoors as well as the Southwest. He is very supportive in every way.

I am a true vidiot as well. I have all of the Firms except for the Prime Power ones and lots of other types of workout videos as well. I have read the forums for years but have just recently started posting and getting to know people. I was pretty shy about posting in the past.

The traveling and displacement associated with the Navy took it's toll on me in the last few years and I have gained quite a bit of weight. I have finally gotten my spark back the first of this year and am on my way back to the healthy slim me that I ust to be. I am grateful to have so many friends here that I know will help me reach that goal. I am looking forward to meeting all of you.

[NeonJungle]

Hi, Carolyne! :)

Again, welcome to everyone, and so glad to have you here! :)

Take care,
Harper

[lynneo]

Hi everyone! I finally figured out how to get my pic here. I have been a vidiot for over ten years and didn't know it! I found the Firm through my daily exercise challenge friends on another site and slowly but surely found my way here. I am home! :D

I'm a middle school teacher, Social Studies, I am single, no children, just two furry cats that keep me company (or is it the other way around?). I have been coaching track and field for the past 8 years and am retiring this year, too much sun and work! It is time to focus on me!

Thanks for letting be part of this community, I own over 70 vids so I guess that is initiation enough, eh? :o

Lynne

[snora]

Lynne, Welcome! It sounds like you are going to fit right in with we vidiots.

[NeonJungle]

Hi, Lynne! Welcome! Aw, I heart kitties. :) I used to be on a track team in highschool, too, for a year or so (until I sadly thought the boys wouldn't like a jock). Thank goodness my neice doesn't have to deal with the thoughts prevalent in the early 80s. She plays basketball, softball, etc., without a thought as to what "the boys" think. :)

Glad to have you here! As a track coach, you'll probably be able to offer lots of advice to runners and wanna-be-runners (like me. :) )

[mickeybjb1]

Hi. I'm B. I just registered and I'm stilll trying to maneuver my way around the forum. I'm looking forward to chatting with everyone about fitness and other fun things.http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/redface.gif

[Vanessa]

Hi Lynne, I'm a middle school science teacher and I used to coach volleyball, basketball, and track at the high school level! I've been in middle school for 20 years...no coaching! I love my kitties and puppies, too! It's great to have you here!

Welcome, Mickey....love your avatar!

[NeonJungle]

Hi, B! Welcome! Hope you enjoy the forum. :)

[AspenUSMC]

Hi, I'm Amy.

I'm an old Firm junkie, and when I found out that Tamela Hastie was leading several of the FitPrime videos...I just had to come and check it all out.

I don't yet own any FitPrimes, but I am really excited (thanks SO much for posting the clips...whoever did that) now that I've seen some of the workouts. They're so much like the classic Firm style that I liked so much. No flash...just classy, clean workouts.

I'm recovering from a 7mm protrusion in my L5-S1 disk...so I'm limited as to what exercise I can do right now. My physical therapist is encouraging Pilates. I have been reading, and I see that FitPrime encourages Pilates and Yoga.

Anyway...that's why I'm here.

[snora]

Aspen - Weren't you active on the old, old Firm forum, pre-Goodtimes?
Weldome to FitPrime!

[AspenUSMC]

Yes I was! I remember your name, Snora! Good to see ya.

I was in the 2001 infomercial for TheFIRM, as well.

I am sad to say that I'm not really all that fond of the newer Firm products. I can't use any of them because of my back and there's all kinds of new equipment to buy. I'm just too poor to invest in new equipment when I have so much perfectly good stuff already. In addition, most ofl my favorite instructors...the ones that inspired me and helped me along the most...have moved on to other ventures. Some are here with FitPrime (Tamela Hastie! I'm so excited that she's done the lead on more videos). So, I came to check it out. I'm so glad to see all these names I've not seen in a long time.

[cyana]

Hi Aspen - good to "see" you. I'm sorry to hear about your back issues.

How's the wee one doing? How old is she now?

[LuceLu]

Hi! I am LuceLu, I am 39, (will be turning 40 in August) and started this year at 190 lbs, my heaviest ever weight. I had always been slim prior to turning 28 when I quit smoking and became pregnant. I was never an athelete of any type, did videos once in awhile (Jane Fonda, Denise Austin, some type of step tape and Susan Powter. etc.).

But as I steadily was gaining weight and joining diet plans right and left in a many times half-hearted attempt ..... I realized I was losing strength, agility, and flexibility. Staring 40 in the face made me realize it has to happen... I will never feel good in my skin unless I work to be the best me I can be. I will never have the energy to do the things I want to do and if I continue on this path, I will not be able to reverse the damage of inertia and gravity. Plus, seeing myself in any pictures or in dressing room mirrors gave me a great deal of cognitive dissonance and embarrassment.

So I joined Weight Watchers online on 1/1/05, started WATP, and Denise Austin's Totally Firm tape. I was turned on to The Firm and ended up purchasing BSS1, 2, and 3. I love it! I have lost 20 pounds and gone from a size 18 to a size 12. I got my dh to do the diet with me and we joined the YMCA. I am signed up for three 5K's in April and May, swimming lessons starting on Friday and have just scoured the internet for many of the old Firm Tapes. It's funny, I remember seeing the Firm workout tapes years ago and thinking they would be too hard for me. I joined the Firm Direct website and am doing rotations from the homepage. I workout almost every day, taking a day off a week, and doing lower impact stuff when I feel a little tired (like WATP, Yoga, stretching). I feel stronger.

I am an RN and I work full-time as an infusion nurse at a chemotherapy center. I live in Central NY, am married with a 12 year old son. We have 2 cats-- MardiGras and Gossamer . I am on the boards at WW, Motley Fool and so far, have had technical difficulties posting on the Firm boards (which, if not resolved will result in a membership cancellation).

I heard about this site and the videos on the Firm Boards. I had to order the complete set (12 dvds). I can't wait to try these as I need to work much on my Core but have little abdominal strength to complete the abs sections and tapes.

I am glad to meet everyone and look forward to sharing stories and giving support.:rolleyes:

[NeonJungle]

Luce! Hi, and welcome! What great results you have had! I'm sure being a chemo nurse isn't easy --hard to leave that at the door when you go home. Thanks for your introduction! I like the Motely Fool too, and used to hit the WW website regularly when I was a member. Too many message boards, too little time! :)

Amy/Aspen! Hi! I wish we had the wavey emoticon here -- good to see you over here! Thinking of you and your back, and hoping for the best for you. :)

[AspenUSMC]

Hi Luce...welcome to the world of online fitness junkies!

Cyan...Lizzie is turning 19 months today. She has gotten so big. She's a full-grown toddler, now. I am overhauling her pages right now, and I should have some really good recent stuff up in a day or two.

Thanks for the encouragement, Vanessa. I really have to shake this habit before my daughter is old enough to know what I'm doing. That's SO important to me.

Hi Harper! I would put up even MORE wavey smilies...and then it would just be a lovefest. :)

[Weeb]

Hey, the "weeb" comes from a childhood nickname...didn't misspell dweeb...although I could be...almost 44, 3 kids, extra family living with us...one fat beagle, a snake and a goldfish that refuses to die....loved-love original Firm...don't care for the GT versions, have many of the Fitprime incarnation...looking over the new ones...are the whfn fitprime workouts the same? Different leader and a cast? Looking them over they seem oddly familar...don't want to order if they are duplicates....totally love the fusion approach...hope all is well with other members and looking forward to chatting.

[beckdawn]

Hi:D My name is Dawn. I am 30 years old (will be 31 in april) I am married (8yrs) with one daughter(4yrs), and am a stay at home MOM. I am 5' 1" and currently weigh 143. After I had my daughter I weighed a WHOPPING 172:eek: . I lost most of this in the past 7 months by doing some of the firm videos that I own. My biggest weakness is pasta and chocolate. (I have trouble staying out of these) I know I have a long way to go, being as though my goal is set at 115lbs but I am taking it one day at a time. I am also a NEWBIE when it comes to excercise (never done it a day in my life until 5 months ago):o I have enjoyed reading the postings on this website and feel like I am right at home. Stacy4ft9 is my HERO!!!
I hope she doesn't mind that I am using her as my ROLE MODEL:) I am Short as well and keep in my mind how far she's come and that I CAN DO IT TOO!!!

BIG HUGS!!! Beckdawn

p.s. Hi Weeb!!

[firmtwizzler]

Hi,


My name is Lisa and I am 44 years old with two children, one 12 and the other 5. I homeschool my daughter and my son is handicapped so I am pretty much tied to the house.

I weighed 200 pounds in October of 2002 and now weigh 145-150 and I am a size 8. I have the Firm to thank for giving me the right combination to help me achieve my goals. I am looking forward to the new workouts.

At the yaya board I am sassynewme. Harper, if you can switch my e-mail to my sassynewme account that would be great but I cannot figure out how to do it.

Just wanted to say hi!http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[susanp1963]

My name is Christine, when my neice and nephew were little they called me Steen and it has stuck with my friends, hence my user name! I am 37 years old, no kids but still trying.

Could be worse, I have a Christine, she's 7, and her nick is "tine-y-weeny"!

Good luck on the trying. . . took me 6 years to conceive #1, 2 1/2 years to conceive #2, then #3 snuck up on me when I wasn't looking! So there can be a light at the end of the tunnel!

The tunnel sucks big yellow lemons though.

[NeonJungle]

Hi, Weeb, BeckDawn, and FirmTwizzler! Welcome to WHFN, and glad to have you here! :)

[jody]

Hello, I do more lurking than posting on forums. I am 41 years old and about 50 pounds over weight. I have two daughters, 12 and 8 and a wonderful husband of 20 years. I was one of the original Firm groupies. I ordered Volume I thru VI when they were listed that way and also have the tortise/hare, the one with Heidi Tanner and Pam ?, the Firm Parts, and then have purchased some of the recently released Firm tapes. I don't think that the ones they have been releasing lately are as tought as the earlier tapes. I even sent in my money before the tapes were produced so they would have the production fees.

I love to exercise but I love to eat. I have lately become my own worse enemy with too much self defeating talk. I have tried for the past 8 years to lose the weight but have not been serious or committed enough. I am not sure what it will take to get me back on track to healthy living. Did I say that I love to eat ?!?

I have ordered the new fitprime tapes. I do have some of the earlier tapes when Tracie Long was leading them but liked the look of the new ones so I ordered them. I am hoping this will help me to be motivated to continue to exercise and watch what I eat but I have begun to think that I will be carrying this extra 50 pounds with me for life. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/frown.gif

I am looking forward to reading the posts here and doing the new tapes when I receive them.

Jody

[Tarheels]

Hi, Jody, and welcome!!! Don't accept the 50 lbs as being with you the rest of your life - that's part of the self-defeating thinking you said you had earlier. Don't accept it, reject it! :) And if you want, come join a checkin on the challenges forum for support. I belong to the 2005 Challenge Check-in, and feel free to join us or any of the other ones that suits you. :D

[bettialice]

Hi Jody. I love to eat also. The only thing that has saved me is to reduce my portions and not what I eat ( which I admit is pretty good most of the time). It is a daily struggle with me to downsize but I focus on the rewards that comes with it. And of course, Anna Benson is looking over my shoulder!!:D

[lisa4nikki]

Hi, I'm Lisa. I've been a "firm beliver", and now a "Fit prime beliver" for years, and fp since they came out.
I am An Ace (American council on Exercise) Group Fitness Instructor, and Personal trainer. I also am Les Mills cerified in Body Pump (if any of you have ever heard of it), I am a Johnny G .Spin Certified Spinning Insrtuctor, and carry Specialty Certifications in Group strength Training and Step Aerobics through Ace , also.
I just want to post here and tell the world that if 50% of the fitnes industry workout programs werer based on the FP principles and class formats..results would come sooner, and client/personal motivation and compliance (sticking with it), would be way uo from what it is today, So why do I only say 50% and not 100%? This is because one workout doesnt fit all. Not everyone likes the same thing, and we all have different goals. Some people are just getting back to exercise from injury,ect.. Some fall under the catergory of special populations who are completley limited in what they can and cannot do. And others are athletes needing an extremly high and or sports specfic volume of training to reach goals.
When someone comes up to me and says, "oh Lisa, I wish I could just lose this weight, or why am I not losing..." I say, "Have you ever heard of FitPrime, or the Firm?" 95% say NO!!!!!!!!!
Thats why I believe its imperitive to get the FP name out there, and let people know what they can actually be - their best !
I have had 3 babies and gained at least 60 pounds each time, lost through Fp methods. ALL LOST, and more!!! I'm In better shape then ever. I've been in this business for over 10 years. I'm only 28, but am getting better as I get older!
MUSCLES MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE!
I hope to find a way mabey to post pictures here, but am not sure if there is a place for that. I'd also need my husbands help as he is better than I at wqorking with computers :p .
God Bless you all. Lisa.

[FitChick21]

That's wonderful to hear, Lisa!! Thank you for sharing that! It's good to know that home exercise methods are recognized as effective. I'm living proof that they are!

If you go to my link in my signature, you'll find a website to make an online picture album and you can post the link to it on the forums. That's what I did. PM me if you need a more in-depth explanation.:)

[ShowBeagles]

:D Hi! I am Cindy. I am 40 and have been Firming since the late 80's/early 90's! I was BeachBum on the origional Firm Forum and the FitPrime Forum. When the old Firm Forum went down and GoodTimes bought The Firm I followed FitPrime but slowly grew disenchanted with that scene so I am TOTALLY THRILLED to see this forum and The REAL Firm (IMHO) revived with this forum and the new KickButt/FitPrime Tapes!!! And WHAT TIMING!!!!

:p I am a SAHM, I breed BEAUTIFUL purebred Beagles and I show them. I will also be grooming part-time from home this summer.:)

:rolleyes: I have noticed that there are a lot of us *ahem* "older" chicks on this forum. I must admit that gives me some measure of comfort!


Best,
Cindy
PS: How can I put my Beagles picture on my posts???

[NeonJungle]

Hi, you guys! So glad to see y'all here!

Cindy, do you want to use it as an avatar? If so, you can go to your User CP -- the link at the top right of the page -- and edit your profile to add a custom avatar. Be sure to check the button that says "use custom avatar" and then you can upload the photo from your hard drive or an online photo album. I think there's a size limit, so if it's regular 4x6, you'll need to reduce it.

HTH! :)

[ShowBeagles]

Hi,
No matter what my avatars can't size down to 100X100 pixles....at least I can't get any to size down :( I have some that are 150 pixels but this site refuses them as too large.

[NeonJungle]

If you'll PM me, I'll send you my e-mail address and see if I can resize it for you. Is it a JPEG, Cindy?

[ShowBeagles]

Thankyou Harper!!!!!

[april]

Hello. I'm april, a 35 year old from Missouri. I'm brand new here. I'm married, no children, except for our three pets. Abby - Chocolate lab, Hailey - black lab, and ??? some type of cat that wasn't planned - Midnight. I'm a second grade teacher that needs the strength and stress relief that exercise brings me.

The DVD's are brand new to me as well. I typically have never enjoyed work out videos too much, but have found with being busier it has been more convenient to workout at home. My one exercise VHS from another company was getting to the point I couldn't keep listening to the same songs. I found the Fit Prime on TV and I'm kind of excited.

Right now, the website and the DVD's are a bit overwhelming. I want to post where I 'should' but there are so many threads I wasn't sure where to begin. I've done the metaboost video and the leader on there made me want to work out more. I've never experienced that type of instructor even in person. I'm excited to think that the next few months I could transform my physical body with the help of the exercise and some of the information I've stumbled upon here at the boards. It seems like the knowledge base of the people on the DVD's and the people posting here is almost in a new language. I'm happy that I have a lot I can learn.

As far as what I can add to the board, well, I may have a lot of fitness knowledge, but I'm a natural encourager. Perhaps I'll be able to give back in that capacity as the opportunities arise.

Hope I didn't overstay my chit chat on introducing myself. Have a great evening!

[Tarheels]

Hi, April! Welcome, and we are happy to have you! Jump right on in and post wherever you like. You are so right about Heidi Tanner, who leads Metaboost; she is an amazing instructor! :)

[nibs]

Hi. I'm Sally. I'm new to this forum. I am 52 years old, married, with two grown children(woo hoo!). I am a Business Systems Analyst/Project Manager for a major credit card company. I have two dogs, a cat and a husband of 31 years. I started working out with Denise Austin about 6 years ago and lost almost 60 pounds with Weight Watchers that I had gained when I quit smoking ten years ago. I then moved to Margaret Richards, Body Electric, then The Firm. I have been doing both old and new Firms for about 2 years. I like the old ones better than the new ones. I received the Fitprimes almost two weeks ago and am in my second week of the thirty day rotation. Can't wait to see if there is any difference at that point.

[Me2]

Hi everyone. My name is Linda. I am Me2 on Cathe's forum, and bolieikl on VF's board (and YaYa's). I was also Me2 on FitPrimes "old" forum.

I am 46 years old. I started working out in the very early 1980's. I ordered Firm Volume I when it first came out and then I pre-ordered all of the Classics as they were made. I still LOVE all of them! :D I have contined with all of the newer Firm's and most all of the FitPrimes (didn't get G-Force...don't have a rebounder :o ) Still working out with them, Cathe and a ton of other DVD's. Can't wait to receive all of the new FitPrimes and KickButt's!!! Hope and pray that I stay healthy enough to keep workout out for years and years to come! And I do hope Anna and others continue creating their excellent workouts for years and years to come!!!

It sure helps to be able to commuicate with other people doing the same things as I am! Keeps me motivated!!!

Linda

[NeonJungle]

Hi, y'all! Welcome to the site! Jump in, spelunk among the forums, and post away! We're so glad to have you here. :)

Take care,
Harper

[crafter1255]

Hi - I'm Karen from Central PA - I'm 49 and have been exercising at home for the last 15 years. I've tried pratically every kind of exercise--step, low and high impact aerobics, Tae Bo, etc. The Firm videos were always my favorites & the ones I returned to. I have to say, though, that the FitPrimes that I have tried just might (probably will) change my mind. I feel more energized, more lenghtened, & more serene after doing these videos than I've ever felt doing others.

I "retired" from a telecommuncations company in 2003 after 30.5 years. Took about a year off to get my head straight -- have been working at a small insurance company for the last 6 months.

My hobbies include rubber art stamping, reading, beading, & (of course) working out!

[swirlygirl]

Hi, just found this forum today. I'm 39, married with no children (except DH who can be a handful!). Anyway, I started Firming last year and have lost 28 pounds so far. I went from a size 12/14 to a 6/8. I feel great and l have the Firm to thank for that. But - I've hit a plateau and I still want to loose another 5-10 pounds mainly in my abs, hips and thighs. I know the last few pounds can be tough. I'm just glad all the holidays are over for now. I have all 3 Firm BSS sets and I like BSS2 the best. I have a few of the older Firms and just can't get into them. I want to get BSS4, but then I found about FitPrime and KickButt. Before I buy another video I wanted some opinions from people who have used the Firm (old and new) and now use these workouts. I'm undecided on whether to get the BSS4 or the KickButt series, I can't afford to get both right now. I want more cardio in my workouts, that's why I thought the KickButt would be better than the FitPrime as I have my Firm workouts for weights. Also, what other equipment might I need for the KickButt series? Can I use the Fanny Lifter? I have so much stuff now with the Firm, that's why I'm unsure about BSS4.

Any thoughts or comments would be great. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/smile.gif

[ellejacob]

Hi,
I'm 41, married with no children and currently living in PA. I started doing the original Firm back in the late 80's to keep in shape while I was in the military (I hate running) and kept doing them off and on throughout the years. I'm really happy that FitPrime/WHFN has the challenging workouts...

Other than working too many hours as an engineer (I workout out at 4:30 in the morning http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/frown.gif), I love to read and geek out.

See you!

[lisavh2]

Hi, I'm 42, married and our son will be 22 this month. I did strength training about 15 years ago using a couple of books by Joyce Vedral. I went from size 14 pants to size 6 and felt really good then I got out of the habit of working out regularly. In the last 5 years I have gained 20 pounds and am back to size 14/16. I've bought many fitness videos over the last few years but have not stuck with them. My hubby who had been about 35 lbs overweight since I met him 25 years ago lost the extra weight in the last 6 months and is now going to a gym several times per week. He really looks good! Now I really have incentive to get back in shape myself. I ordered the 12 DVD set and just received it last Wednesday. I did Lower Body Burn on Thursday and was sore until this morning. I really enjoyed it and the 52 minutes sure went quickly. I plan to do Lower Body Burn on Monday. I am planning to do 4 FitPrime/Kickbutt workouts every week and do some cardio at the gym 3 or 4 days per week for now.

[Tarheels]

Welcome, everyone! It's great to see so many new faces! :D

[Lori]

Hello my name is Lori aka Mr 10's lover-unbeknownst to my real DH of almost 22 years.

My DH & I have a child of the American Eskimo breed who is turning 4. ( a white dog)

I live in Vancouver, B.C. I too have all the Firm collection but 2. All the old Fitprime & waiting for the new Fitprime/Kickbutt. I used to do "other" workouts, eventually figured, "what's the point"? Now exclusively for the last few years, just doing Anna's, Cynthia & Mark's stuff.

Rather lead a dull life, enjoy checking out the forum to giggle, harrass, & play with the likes of other silly people. Oh, & knowledgable ones too.

hmmm...nuff about me.
oh, ya, I'll be 43 this June.

[Mary Ann]

Hi, my name is Mary Ann. I am also from Central Pa. I am 53, married with 3 kids. I have most of the old firm Tapes and I wouldn't part with them. I just happened to find an old rotation calendar yesterday and decided to start using the Firm tapes again. I wanted to start today, but I worked till 3 a.m. and had to get back up at 6:30, so I'm pretty well shot.


Mary Ann

[chirobabe]

Hi!

I'm Chris and I'm a 47 year old mom who works part time for my hubby.........I've been doing Benson sister workouts since the original Firm videos!!

I remember doing them when my son was watching in his crib and he's 15 now!!!!

I had some health challenges, so I'm out of shape, but I'm healthy now and ready to workout!!!!

These are the best workouts I've ever done...and you do see results fast!

[felinekatie]

http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/smile.gif Hi,

I'm Norma and I hail from Ottawa, Canada. I've been doing the Firm workouts for years. I especially like the earlier Classic and Cross Trainer tapes. I have a library of 24 Firm tapes along with many, many others.(Fonda, Voight, Austin, etc.,etc.) My husband says I could start my own fitness studio. What can I say, I'm a workout junkie.

[azcats]

Hi!

I'm Julie. I'm 45 and live in VA--although my heart's still in Tucson :) I teach full time (music) and have 2 kids 17 and 10.

I've Firmed off and on for years (back to the originals) and just ordered the whfn's. I'm looking forward to seeing some familiar instructors and some new workouts. I had a semi long lapse during my move and have been back on the exercise wagon since the end of Feb although the food thing is slowing my results considerably.

It will be good to get to know you all.

Julie

[StrongBearSeer]

Hi I am Sherri, age 51. Married with one child and two step-children, all grown. I live in Indiana in a small town with my DH, two hybrid wolf/shepherds and one chow heinz 57. I like everything. Computers, gardening, painting, crafts, scuba diving and the list goes on and on.

[LeoTheLioness]

Hello, I'm Anne ~ a long time Firm fan, just getting back into it really (dropped out of working out after having my 3rd child 2 yrs ago, for shame!). I am BACK in the game, started working out again about 3 weeks ago, and I feel soooo good!

I am 34, have 3 kids (2 boys, 1 girl), love reading, bookstores, coffee, long walks with the kids, and going out on hot dates with the dh! ;)

This site looks wonderful, lots of info and support. I want to be in the best shape of my life by my 35th bday (several mos. away), and if there was ever a place to be encouraged, this is it. :)

[Christine S.]

Hi There,

I'm Christine, I'm 32 years old and live in New Hampshire with my husband and 3 year old daughter. Mostly I'm a SAHM, but I also work part- part time (i.e., about 1 day a week) as a Research Assistant for a major financial company.

I've been a member of VF for about 3 years (I'm Christine S. over there, too) and have been lurking on Ya-Yas for a few months now. I've been exercising to videos at home since I was 18, but have recently re-discovered the Firm and fell in love again. I also like older Cathe Friedrich and Christi Taylor when I'm in the mood for dancy cardio. I ordered WHFN's Crunch Time / Kick Butt two pack a few months ago and loved it so much I've gone ahead and ordered the 6 pack!http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif I can't wait to try them.
Looking forward to chatting with you all!

[Jinx43]

Hi

I'm Jennifer in Raleigh. I decided after I turned 43 and my BMI hit 26 that I needed to do something to get fit! I started just doing Quick10 workouts, then bought BSS3 at ****'s in mid-February. I have gotten completely addicted! I work out now 5 days a week, plus one yoga/stretch. I just discovered WHFN from a yahoo group I'm in. I have only done Metaboost so far, but I loved it! These workouts seem like they're better suited for my aging body <g>

I'm looking forward to getting to know y'all. (Hi Sherri! I recognize you from the FirmBelievers boards! I'd love to hear how you're merging your workouts into a great rotation! )

Jennifer.

[Tarheels]

Welcome to everyone! We are happy to have you here! :D

[TyTbody]

hi all, Just found you, this introductory page. I'm TyTbody cause that's what 'm working on. 'm a 50 year old single woman. divorced twice. Work as a massage therapist and phlebotomist/ekg tech. My goal is to hit this home exercise thing and make it work for me. Get in the habit, make some regular work out friends, share my life with some women and be connected to a like exercisers. Learn how to listen to my body like you guys, hopefuly be able to share my fruit with others. as soon as I figure how to put a little picture of myself up here, I will.

[snora]

TyTBody -

Come join us on the 50 or almost 50 check-in. We are fun, fun, fun and VERY supportive.
And, welcome to WHFN.

[Barbara P]

I'm Barbara P, been around the forums for years, I'm 52 and live in Connecticut with my DH, 13 yr old son and 3 cats. I work part time for a major insurance company as a Business Anaylst IT consultant.
I've been to the Firm 6 times and have had the pleasure of meeting Anna on my first couple of trips.
Barbara P

[TyTbody]

Hi Barbara, I'm in Brockton, MA. About 2 hours away from you. It must have been nice to see where the people are you exercise with. I'm new also. Waiting for my Kick Butt. and I'm 50 also. Ain't it great!!! I think so:) :p

[pollytc]

Hello. My name is Kim. I'm 39 and I live in SE Michigan with my daughter, dog , cat and kitten. I love to do crafts, camp, do stuff outdoors, play cards and board games, movies, and go to sporting events. I have been working out to videos/dvds for many, many years. Among my favorites are the older firms, some Cathe, some Beachbody, Taebo Live, and slowly collecting the WHFN series (almost done!!). I frequent VF, Cathe, and now starting on this site! I've been struggling with my weight for about eight years, and am not quite giving up! Hopefully this series will keep me motivated enough to stick to it!!!

[lollycat]

Hi Everyone,

My name is Robin and I live in the South with my DH and our two cats (I like seeing that so many of us are cat people!). I work with my husband at his company (just us) and, when there is time, write part-time for a local newspaper. Gardening, working out, writing, being lazy, napping, being a Cat Mamma and reading are some of my loves.

I started out as a Firm Believer when first rented Vol. 1 (BSB) from Block Buster. I bought my first video (Vol. 5 pre-sale) in 1992. I have the first six volumes, four of the Firm Parts videos, and three other B/B/H videos. I also still have a couple of the catalogs, do any of you remember them?

I'm so impressed with Anna's workouts (and her genius) that I just can't bring myself to buy anybody else's. I'm very excited about FitPrime because my body has changed (partly because I didn't exercise for a few years :( ) and these workouts fit that fact perfectly. I have Metaboost and Flex Posture, am working through them slowly.

As much as I loved The Firm, I could never get any of my friends interested in the tapes. Now I'm blessed to have a workout buddy in my husband. We take turns motivating each other to get up the stairs to the bonus room to work out first thing (4:15 a.m.) through the week.

That's it, look forward to sharing with y'all here. :)

lollycat

[TyTbody]

Hi lollycat. Did you get the fitprimes or kickbutt or the whole shabang?

[lollycat]

Hi, TyTbody. I just bought Metaboost and Flex Posture to start; found them on collagevideo.com. I injured a knee last year so I'm learning what I can do.

Also, I forgot to say that I'm 48. I live in an area where it seems everyone is younger, so that is another nice thing about this forum, finding women "of a certain age" like me.

[TyTbody]

glad you're here. There is that 50's list also here. I plan on getting the whole other set after I complete this one. then do a round of that. then start mixing them up. That's the plan at least. I was just outside thinking when am I going to exercise today? See..it's something to look forward to for me now and that is great!!! I get to do a new one today. so, I should not be so excited cuase I know I"ll be fumbling big time. But it's the first and a learning procedure. Stick with them. I love them and am blessed to be here also with these ladies. Hope to talk to you soon.

[sallie]

Hi!

My name is Sallie. I'm 43 and have been a long time FIRM fan since...the beginning I guess! I'm an exercise physiologist and a former fitness instructor, but I love, love, love fitness videos. They are my preferred form of exercise (Just me and my TV at 5am!). I just received my 12-pack and absolutely adore them. Boredom is a huge problem for me and I just don't see myself getting bored with these fabulous workouts.

Other stuff about me: I have an 8 year old son, a dog and three cats and a DH who is supportive of my fitness habit. Thank goodness!

Due to some major stress in my life this past year I am actually a bit underweight and and have lost muscle mass, (not a good thing believe me) so I am hoping to gain some back. I think these workouts may do it! I am actually enjoying working out again! It had become a chore to me lately.

I've been lurking here for the past week and everyone seems so friendly. I can't wait to read more! Thanks!

sallie

[TyTbody]

Hi Sallie, Nice to meet you. I've seen so many trainers on these boards. Good company. At least you don't say ahhh to home exercise. I love that I'm not stuck in a time frame to get my workout done. It feel so much better on my body.

[Barbarasparkles]

Hi, my name is Barbarasparkles. I put that in as my username since there is already a Barbara here. I am 59 years old. Have lost 43 pounds. I have been using the Firm videos for years. I also have Leslie Sansone walking videos and do some kickboxing. I have alot of variety in my workout videos. Keeps me from being bored. I have some other videos also, but I mostly use the Firm and the walking videos. I usually exercise 5-6 days a week. Also ride my bike 4 miles during the week. Have 13 grandchildren. Have 3 wonderful dogs. I like to read and flower garden. Getting back into crossstitching and other crafts too.

[DONNA211]

Hi!

My name is Donna and I'm 32. I just returned to graduate school this past year for my masters in physical therapy. I live with my boyfriend of 8 years and my 2 dogs in RI (we just moved back from AZ). I used to do the Firm but with school I run out of time. Saw the kickbutts and have been doing the rotation for one week and I love them--I think they'll be great for getting me back on track!!

Besides that we like to hike, watch movies and read.
;) D

[APhiJill]

Oh boy, here goes the 'hood! :D
I have been on the ya yas, firm forum (I just lurk now) and VF. My name is Jill and I am (gasp) 38. I am just a sistah looking to get my groove back. I fell off the wagon and have had imprints of the wagon wheels embedded in my face for so long, it ain't funny. The weight has creeped back up...well not really--more like it went from 0-60 in 2.8 seconds. :rolleyes:

I have got to get back into consistent exercising. I got the new collage catalog and saw some of the videos. I became intrigued and ordered them and can't wait till they come in. I lurved the old school FIRM videos. Right now they probably would be too rough on my joints, thanks to the hella weight I put on in the last 4 years or so. :mad:

I am married and as far as location, we are in limbo. Hoping DH's US immigration is solved soon (he is from Canada). I am in Washington State and he is in British Columbia (less than an hour drive)

[pinkie66]

Hi I liked your post...you sound so funny.

I am your age and I've had the orig firms back in '88/'89 - I can't remember exactly what year. Don't give up working out. :D

I gained a ton of weight before my first husband passed away. I continued to work out when I could and I always went back to the Firm (even though I have 80 or so other videos)

I lost weight but it took time. My favorite vid's are the BBH productions. Anyways, I have husband no. 2 and 2 four legged kids ( 1 dog/1 cat).

[fitlissa76]

I think most folks here already know me. I'm also known as Dvorah27 at Ya-Ya's, and lissalaurel76 at VF.

I just took a late late LATE night bubble bath & am headed to bed. :)

[FacciaBella]

Hey Ladies!! I'm new to this forum, but I've been doing the FIRM since 1994. Much like APhilJill, I've gotten busy with work and life and I've allowed the pounds to pile back on. With the help of the original FIRM workouts, I had lost 96lbs and gained so much confidence, strength and agility that I made some major life changes. I got divorced, changed careers and took on some truly new responsibilities. The short version is, I left my job as a sedentary secretary with IBM and became an Emergency Medical Technician and I also became a volunteer firefighter for my local fire department. This all became possible after the FIRM helped me lose my "old" self and gain a whole new attitude on life. It's a really long story that I won't bore you with now. Let's just say that since I started my new career as an EMT (hopefully soon to be a Paramedic) my schedule changed and it left little time for workouts so the pounds krept back on.

I decided to go back to doing the original FIRM workouts because it's where I got the best results. I started with Volume 1 which is always the toughest for me and from there I sort of "found" you guys on this forum. It's great to know that Anna and Cynthia Benson are still making great videos. I don't own any of them yet, but I'm looking for feedback from everyone here on them. I miss the old FIRM format and like I said before, that's where my best results came from.

It's nice to be here amongst you ladies. I'm going to continue my research and hopefully soon will be ordering one of these great new workouts.

:cool:

[Tarheels]

Welcome! We are happy to have you with us. :D

[jtshotone]

Hello! I am Amy from Vancouver, WA. I have been working out with Anna's videos since 1996, with some pauses for a chronic illness (aggrivated by exercise). If you need any motivation as to what eating right and exercise can do, go check out my website at http://www.freewebs.com/jtshotone/Its my Weight Watchers success site, but definately exercise is the key to success! (Please note, I haven't updated to share my enthusiasm about FitPrime yet ... I will eventually! ;) )

I am thrilled to find Anna's FitPrime DVDs. Sometimes I just don't feel like jumping really high, or lifting a 20 pound dumbell, and I can get a great workout in what seems to me a much gentler manner with FitPrime. Yeah!

BTW, if I can put my vote in ... my favorite DVD is Floor Burn. I LOVE a workout where I can get such good results and be on the floor the whole time. LOL! I just feel more connected to the earth. And, like I am being lazy, even though I'm not. ;o) So, if you are considering making more DVDs, Anna, more on the Floor is my vote!!!http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Tarheels]

Hi, Amy!!! Welcome! :D Your results are so inspiring, and thanks so much for sharing them with us! I completely agree about the floor thing. That's why I love doing Margaret Richard's workouts for lower body because much of the work is done on the floor. So much more relaxing that way. :p

[Kasi5]

Hello all!
I am Kasi, pregnant with my 5th child.:)
I am so excited about the site and the new (to me) videos! Right now with this pregnancy, I am not able to exercise like I did with my others, and have therefore, literally, gobs of fat on my body.:mad:
I am thinking about the FitPrime videos for my post-birth workouts. The fitness freak inside wants the KickButt series....but I think that I will die if I get those.:(
Reading all these threads have got me so pumped! Not only am I excited for the babys arrival, but I am looking forward to getting to see all the familiar faces, on the new workouts!!!!! I have some of the new FIRM videos, but have not been happy with them. I did resort to my FIRM originals, but now I feel like I am going to be "going home" when I get to "pump up" my body!!!!:D

I am going to keep visiting the boards even though I wont be able to workout with all of you, but it will keep me motivated for when the big day comes!!!

Take care and Namaste!

[Stevie]

HI

I'm Stevie, from Los Angeles, and been working out for eons. I remember a physical therapist I knew recommending these workouts and she's right. They are terrific.
I currently do a lot of pilates, body rolling and a variety of workouts on dvd/video including kickboxing, cardio, sculpting that involves different stuff like body bars, smartbells, hand weights and more.
I just mix it up a lot

Stevie

[Tarheels]

Hi, Kasi and Stevie! :D

[Pambie36]

Hi everyone!

I do recognize some of the names here ... I've been on the old "Firmlist" hosted by Sparky and then Topica since 1996!

My name's Pam, I'm 40something and the mother of two fabulous daughters, 17 & 12. I've been using the Firms since 96, started buying Cathe weight workouts about 3-4 yrs ago and just got the bikini set of WHFN. My energy level's a little low so these have been perfect for me right now - I just finished up a week of them. I'm a huge Susan Harris fan, also adore Tracie Long and Heidi Tanner.

In the next few weeks I plan on ramping up the intensity, altho I haven't determined how quite yet. Am also a runner. Oh, and I live outside of Philadelphia.

If anyone here remembers the "old" listserve, I am trying to track down Fitbabe.

Cheers & happy workouts,
Pambie

[Barbara P]

Hi Pam!
Fancy seeing you here :D
If you do find Fitbabe, I would love to know too, I've lost track of her also.
Barbara P

[snora]

Pambie - Welcome! Glad to have you here.
I, too, posted on the old Sparky and Topica.

[leeanng]

Hello, I posted on that old Firm site where you'd get 500 E-Mails a day! I'd spend hours going through those posts! I remember somone called Carol. And Apryl, who I think was featured in a success story. I'm talking 1997 or so? Carol always posted and kind of kept us together. :)

[Barbara P]

Hello, I posted on that old Firm site where you'd get 500 E-Mails a day! I'd spend hours going through those posts! I remember somone called Carol. And Apryl, who I think was featured in a success story. I'm talking 1997 or so? Carol always posted and kind of kept us together. :)

Hi Leann! I think I remember you, I am still in touch with both Carol and Apryl. I was on the old firmlist (actually I still AM on the firmlist, now on Topica) from the second day of its exsistance!
Barbara P

[leeanng]

Yes, I think I remember you also! They seem to be looking for Fitbabe. Was she one that was on those Bust & Butt & Core Cardio videos?

Over the years I've gotten thin, then fat and now I'm whittling myself slowly again. The change of life kicked in ugh! Lee Ann

[Stephanie]

Talk about a blast from the not-too-distant past! I was on that original e-mail list too, joined in December of 1997 I believe. There were some days when I would go through hundreds and hundreds of them!

Barb P, how are you?!?! It's been forever! I remember meeting you for the first time at the FIRM Believers weekend in, what was it, 1999?

Apryl, if you're still out there, I miss talking to you girl! Can you believe it's already been a year since you were in Charleston?! I'm so excited that Bobbi Jo is moving here!

Oh, I guess I was supposed to introduce myself huh?! http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif I'm Stephanie and I live in Mt. Pleasant, SC. I'm married and we have a beautiful 3 year old daughter. I used to teach for The FIRM in Charleston and now teach at V for Tracie (Long).

Stephanie L.

[Fitbabe]

Hello Everyone! So this is where everyone went! LOL

To make a long story short, I stopped working out for a while and by the time I started up again I had lost all my contact info because of a computer crash. I was looking at the lastest Collage catalog and saw some Fit Prime workouts that were developed by the Bensons.

I have been off and on the workout wagon ever since my mom died. (I don't remember if I was still on the old FIRMList when that happened. Sorry to just blurt it out like that...) It's really hard to stay motivated when all I want to do is pick up the phone and call her.

But I'm back on the wagon again. I have gained a TON of weight! My size 14's are tight. :( :( I haven't purchased any Fit Prime tapes, but I plan to.

I see some familiar names already! Pammie and Barb! (waving frantically!!)

Erm... When is FIRM Vol 2 gonna be released on DVD? :D

[leeanng]

Hello Fitbabe! I was one of those "oldies" from the old Firm list. I'm sorry about your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Something like that can do a number on you. I lost my sister-in-law who I was really close to. I was a mess for about a year. I too gained tons of weight and got off the fitness wagon! I've been coming back with a vengence though. I love these new workouts! I mix and match them with the old ones. Your size 14's are too tight? I'm excited I can fit into 14's! I once wore a size 6 and spent last year wearing size 18's! Ugh! But I'm working on it! I've lost 12 lbs so far! I used to sign myself as "Lee Ann from Spokane" Doesn't this feel like a reunion? Keep writing everyone! I sure motivates me!:)

[Fitbabe]

OMG! Hello Lee Ann!

[APhiJill]

FITBABE! Hey girl! This is Jill! Haven't heard from ya since we met in Everett. Sorry to hear about your mom :(

I know all about falling off the fitness wagon. ANd I remember your love for Vol 2. I am getting back on the wagon with Vol 6.

Glad to see ya

Hello Everyone! So this is where everyone went! LOL

To make a long story short, I stopped working out for a while and by the time I started up again I had lost all my contact info because of a computer crash. I was looking at the lastest Collage catalog and saw some Fit Prime workouts that were developed by the Bensons.

I have been off and on the workout wagon ever since my mom died. (I don't remember if I was still on the old FIRMList when that happened. Sorry to just blurt it out like that...) It's really hard to stay motivated when all I want to do is pick up the phone and call her.

But I'm back on the wagon again. I have gained a TON of weight! My size 14's are tight. :( :( I haven't purchased any Fit Prime tapes, but I plan to.

I see some familiar names already! Pammie and Barb! (waving frantically!!)

Erm... When is FIRM Vol 2 gonna be released on DVD? :D

[Fitbabe]

Jilly Bean! How are you?!

This feels like a high school reunion. LOL

[leeanng]

:) Hi gang! It's so nice to hear from the "oldies". I went off the wagon for the past two days. I worked out for 9 days straight then didn't for the last three. I did ride my horse though. He's a great big boy that gives me quite a workout! (Yes, I'm talking about my horse, not my DH! LOL) I just ate breakfast and am waiting around for the food to settle so I can work out. I like to do the workouts that compliment each other. Such as "Lean" on one day and "Pump" on an alternate day. I throw in some Firm cardio or Cathe cardio (I have to modify Cathe at this point) during the week also. I tried the rotation calendar but it's too restricting to me. I do better doing my own thing. Happy Fitpriming!:D

[Fitbabe]

I did ride my horse though. He's a great big boy that gives me quite a workout! (Yes, I'm talking about my horse, not my DH! LOL)


LOLOL!! :D
I just spent a small fortune on workout dvd's. I'm probably too out of shape for the FitPrime's but I ordered them anyway. Steamin' Cardio/Push Pull and Metaboost/Flex Posture. I also got some Lotte Berk and Bar Method stuff. The clips on the Collage site reminded me of Callanetics. I used to love those tapes "back in the day". :)

[leeanng]

I finally got around to checking my E-mail.... The Steamin' Cardio/Push Pull combo is tough! The Flex Posture/Metaboost is more friendlier to us "reasonably out of shape" people...:D

[Barbara P]

FITBABE! Is this "THE" Fitbabe, "you know who I am".....??? It has to be since your avatar is volume 2!!

Well it's me, Barbara P!!!! How the heck are you (I hope it is you).....I'm STILL on the firmlist and your name comes up now and then! Can I tell people you are here?????

I hope this is YOU!
Barbara P in CT

[Pambie36]

OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!! Lisa if that is you ... WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING ALL OVER AND ASKING ALL OVER FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!

D'you remember me? Pambie? From the original Firm "Sparklist." We used to share bad date stories (altho you always topped me for sure - especially the guy with bangs on his socks ... :).

Please please please update us & let us know how you're doing. This is so exciting!

[jennsteele]

Wow!! All sorts of folks here from the old sparklist! I still read the list on Topica, but I've gone back to school at night for my MBA, so things have been CRAZY! I remember you, Lee Ann from Spokane--I'm actually going to Spokane for turkey day this year! I think you're a "valley girl," right?

And Jill! I ran across your blog on LiveJournal a few months back!

And Fitbabe! An APB went out for you pretty much every six months for the last few years.

Of course, Pambie and BarbaraP I've seen quite a bit...

Ok, to introduce myself, I'm Jenn (jenns on the firmlist) and from Boston. I've been working out with the firm/etc. since 1989 or 1990 or so when my stepmom brought home volume 1. I live/work/school in Boston where I live with my hubby (well, I live in a suburb and work in Boston).

Back to my Economics reading...

:)
jenns

[Bobbi Jo]

Hey Fitbabe!!!!

Welcome back. So good to see you again!!!! Remember when we used to chat about Jerry Lawler???? Glad to see that you are well!!! :)

[Bobbi Jo]

Hey Stephanie!!!!

We are almost done getting the house ready to sell. We have kind of switched gears on buying a house down there. We are looking at buying a condo now and keeping this house---we put so much money and work into it, we decided maybe this was a good way to go. Becky wants to go to USC...Pat wants to go to UNCC..so we can get in-state tuition if we have both residences. Anyway, we are still coming no matter what...Steve would not have it any other way! If we buy a condo, the ones we are looking at are finished in the spring...so we hope to be there by then. If we buy a house..probably the same time frame, but not sure.

Apryl is still around but her computer died this weekend, so she won't see your post. I will be sure and let her know!!! Glad to hear from you and I will let you know when I am going to be your neighbor!!!

[vciera]

Fitbabe! Jill! HI THERE!! Oh my goodness it's so nice to see you both :D

Hugs Fitbabe re your mom, when my mom passed I lost ground too, you know, 5 years later I still have to pause and remember that I can't call. Donna Summers said it best when she said that you only get used to the void

You will probably be able to do the FitPrime, the KickButts take it up a notch or three! LOL. I bought all 12 and like them a lot

Well again, hi, hugs and great to see you

[Diane E]

Hi all,

This is Diane(remember Momster from the old list?). I've been around but not to vocal the last few years. I have had a lot going on in my personal life which has reflected in my food choices, I am trying to get back into the swing of things with it all.
It is so nice to here from you Lisa, I remember being roommates on my first firm trip.
Take care, Diane

[Stephanie]

Bobbi Jo I'm so glad to hear that things are still on track for ya'll to move to Charleston! Apryl did e-mail me a couple of weeks ago and we go somewhat caught up, but would love to see both of ya'll again in the flesh!!

Stephanie <><

[Fitbabe]

Eeeeeeee!!!!! This is so exciting! Hello everyone! And Boobie Jo! LOL I'm still a die hard wrestling fan. I went to a Smackdown in Raleigh last month. It was boring. All my faves are on Raw. But at least I got a good looooong look at Dave Batista. ;) ;) :p

The FIRMList is still around? I looked and didn't find it. Hook me up! Email me!

[Barbara P]

The main firm list is at topica, I think it's subcribe-thefirm@topica.com or thefirm-subscribe@topica.com or some variation like that.

We also still have the minilist, it's at yahoo now,
FitFirmies-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

a lot of the old timers are still there!!!
barbar aP

[Bobbi Jo]

Hey Steph:

We should be coming down in the next month or so. I will try to let you know as soon as I know so we can try to get together. I can't believe we are finally doing it! We had talked Summerville, but now we are looking for houses on John's Island (Grimball Gates) or a particular condominium complex that is on Folly...not on the beach but about 3 miles away called Pelican Pointe. We have not been down to see it yet...all I know is it is across the road from the new Piggly Wiggly, which happens to be Steve's favorite store from his childhood! The condo idea suits me a whole lot better because I don't really want to have to go through selling this one....what a pain. I will get in touch as soon as I know we are coming down. Apryl already has her room reserved in whatever we buy, so you can bet you will be seeing her and I hope a lot of others who want to come down!!! Talk to you soon!

[Bobbi Jo]

Fitbabe....I am sure the long look was a good one! My son and husband still watch the stuff on TV, but I have to admit I have not seen it in quite a while. I still hear Lawler on something every once in awhile yelling. That man has been around forever! And yes, I am still Boobi Jo!

[Diane E]

Hi Stephanie!

I am glad you are doing well, how old is the baby now?
I just sent my second child off to college a few weeks ago, of course the first one didn't stay gone for long . we have had a lot of changes going on but I always keep in touch with what is happening on the fitness forums.
Take care, Diane

[Fitbabe]

Hey Diane! I still remember you and Melissa making fun of my HUGE coffee mug that I brought from home. I still have it! LOL

Coffee always tastes better in that mug. :)

[Fitbabe]

I finally got around to checking my E-mail.... The Steamin' Cardio/Push Pull combo is tough! The Flex Posture/Metaboost is more friendlier to us "reasonably out of shape" people...:D

When I watched them, I was like "whoa...". LOL I like the "Real FIRM" look, though. And Narty Waters is back looking as fabulous as ever. It's been twenty years since Vol 1 and she looks the same!

[Pambie36]

Where are you living now? What're you doing?

[KaeLaVie]

Well, I just heard about the reunion going on around here, so thought I'd pop in, too! Another sparkie firmlist regular checking in. I think I joined in December of 1997 or January of 1998 - can't remember. It's so wonderful to see some old friends. I keep in touch with BarbP, Diane, Bobbi, Apryl, Eve, Lannette and others from the old days. You just can't beat the group that was together back when these lists all began.

I'm kinda in a start over phase. Had some health problems and fell completely off the workout wagon...but seeing everyone may just motivate me to get back on. Even though I hadn't been doing much, I do have the whole FP/KB set and all the new Firms.
Good to see ya'll!
Karen :)
(Kae from the sparky list)

[Bobbi Jo]

Hey Karen!!! I never introduced myself either, so I guess I will. I was too busy catching up with everyone! I am Bobbi (Nickname Boobi--goes way back!)Jo, live in Charlotte, NC, and was on the original sparklist too. I sure do miss us all getting together! At least we can do it this way. I too have fallen off the wagon (so many times I can't count) and am trying to get myself back on and stay on. I love the new FP's/KB's and have all but 2 (Floor Burn and Time Crunch--just prefer the originals with Susan). I enjoy them all. So good to see everyone here!!!:)

[Barbara P]

It's like a reunion!

Now we have to get down to SC somehow......I wanna go!
barbara P

[Bobbi Jo]

ME TOO!!! I am game whenever everyone is ready to go! :D

[Fitbabe]

Where are you living now? What're you doing?

Sorry it takes me so ling to get back. I try to limit my tine online to weekends otherwise I'll be glued to this chair all day and all night. LOL

I'm still in Columbia. I took some time off from school (from life actually... :( ) after my mom died. I'll be done next quarter (knock wood). I'll probably be moving to FL with my dad. He's still in WA but he wants to go back to FL for the warmer weather and lower cost of living. He has prostate cancer and he isn't doing so well. The cancer is in remission, but his various medications take a lot out of him. He has a lot of friends there so he isn't completely alone, but still...

[carolaz]

Wow! This is my first day here and I found old timers from the Firm Sparkllist!
Those were the days!

I don't know if anyone remembers me, and I don't remember my username from sparklist: maybe vincar or Carol C.?

Anyway, after years off falling off the wagon (and gaining 30 lbs back), I'm back and did Fat Blaster today. I loved it.

I still have my Volumes 1-6, crosstrainers,Firm parts, etc.

I'm looking forward to finding out more about FitPrime and getting a couple of DVDs. Which is best for beginners?

Carol

[jtshotone]

Hi Carol! I personally think that any of the FitPrime or KickButt can easily be modified for someone just starting out. These workouts are so gentle (flowing, easy pace) in comparison with the regular Firms that it is amazing to find you get such a good workout in the end! :D

As you progress/get better, you will become more confident in your moves, you will improve your form to perfection (the better your form, the better the workout) and increase resistance as needed.

I personally started off with Floor Burn and loved it ... I figure, any time I spend most of the workout on the floor it seems even *less* like a workout, lol! :o)

Don't get me wrong, I loved the Firm (still do on occassion). And, as I am getting older (been Firming since 1995), I find that I want more blend, more balance, less jumpy (gotta watch those joints! :eek: ) and more variety. The Benson ladies have come up with just what the doctor ordered! :D

Welcome and enjoy!

Amy

[Ginger]

Hi Carolaz and welcome! If you haven't found the workout clips yet, take a look: http://www.whfn.com/videos.php ...might help you to decide where you'd like to start.

[Toyota2005]

Hi,

I'm married and am 47 yrs.old. I'm 163 lbs and my weightloss goal is 126. I've been doing the FIRM tapes (on and off) since 1993. Unfortunately I have "let myself go" and I'm working towards becoming a "diva" again!!

I'm new to fitprime. I enjoy doing the old FIRM tapes. I just can't get into the new ones that are out now. http://www.whfn.com/board/images/smilies/frown.gif

[leeanng]

Hi! I've been lurking because I haven't had the time to really get into the forum. But....I just want to say, welcome back! I've done the same thing myself! I've been Firming since 1986!! But I let myself go... I'm one of the "oldies" from the former website. I have to tell you though, I started back at the end of June and lost at least 20 lbs. and am still going strong! I started out as a size 18 and just bought a new pair of jeans yesterday in a size ten!. I would like to lose 15 more lbs and then I'll be back where I used to be. I find it's getting into the habit and once I do, I can keep with it. I sure feel alot better....:)

[Toyota2005]

Leeanng,

I know what you mean about getting into the habit. That's what I'm working towards now. Great for you losing 20 lbs!!!; and for getting into a size 10!! My 10s are too tight, I'm in a 12 now. I'm suppossed to be into an 8.

What FIRM video would you recommend to me whereas I will see results immediately (one that's not too long)?? Years ago, an attorney I had worked for bought me the FIRMS's not so tough aerobics. The lbs melted away......Unfortunately, I was tired of it and I sold it on Amazon.com
It was short, sweet, and very effective:)

[RitaMae]

Hello!

Most of you are my daughter's age but I thought I would join in on the "conversation" in spite of it or because of it. :-)
Back in the '80's when my children were young and it was popular to do so, I went to "aerobic classes". It wasn't always easy to fit it in my schedule but I went whenever I could. My husband got ill and I became the primary caregiver which took up a lot of my time along with my part time job. I used an exercise bike but it was boring even if I read or listened to music.
In 1989, shortly after my (then) husband died, I rented an exercise video to use at home. It was "The Firm, Volume 2". I was hooked instantly and the next day I went out and ordered the tape, some weights and "Volume 3". My son was in high school at that time and his then girlfriend found out how much I was into the two tapes and gave me her copy of "Volume 1" that she didn't use anymore.
I was then working full time but would get up every morning and do one of the routines before going to work. I continued to order every "Firm" video that came out. Some were a little "slower" than I liked but I just did those on my "slow' days.
A few years ago I realized that I was not enjoying any of the new "Firm" tapes. Kept going back to the originals. Too much "hollywood" in the new ones for me.
Last week as I was working out to #2 and totally enjoying it (I now have about 25 Firm tapes) I realized that one element missing from the newer tapes was "Anna Benson" in the credits. As soon as I finished I went to "google" and search her name. Low and behold I found "Fit Firm"! I ordered 12 tapes immediately and they arrive two days ago. I have worked out with two of them so far and I have to tell you it's like seeing my old friends again after a long time.
So, after 16 years of exercising with "The Firm" , I have to say that Anna Benson's style really works for me best.
I celebrated my 60th birthday this year and with my (now) husband, I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in September. Living in the Pacific Northwest the weather didn't leave much good weather to train for the climb so I did extra on my "Firm" tapes. ALthough I did not summit because I don't like hiking in the dark, I reached the 15,500' base camp with absolutely no problems and kept up with the group of 20, 30, 40 and 50 year olds.
Although I am sure there are signs of my 60 years in my skin, body, etc , I sure don't feel like I thought I would at this age and I truly believe it's because of my workouts.
I encourage you to continue your efforts because they do pay off. "knock on wood" but I don't get sick very often. I have lots of energy, and although my body has changed over the years due to gravity, I am still wearing a size 8. And, I started when I was your age or before.
Way too many words and introduction but I got on a roll and couldn't stop. I'm just really excited about these new tapes and wanted to share.
Thanks for listening.
Rita

[snora]

Rita - Welcome!
Your story was so inspiring. I turn 50 this winter and you give me much hope for my next decade. Mt. Kilimanjaro - how exciting!
I hope you enjoy the WHFN workouts as much as many of us do. They have the same superior production quality as Anna's older workouts. Most of them are equally as intense if you "heavy up", but have the added benefits of being gentler on the joints and lots of stretching.
Susan

[leeanng]

Tihs one is for Toyota 2005. Lately, I've been doing the newest Fitprime and Firm workouts. I have all the old ones that got me into great shape in the past, but like you, I had done them for so many years, I got a little bored with them. Even though I stopped working out, I still kept buying the latest and greatest Fitprimes, Firms, and Cathe Freidriech DVD's. So when I started back again, everything is new! I got to the point I'm familiar with the newest Fitprimes so the older ones are new to me that I've been doing lately. Then I'm doing the same with the recent Firm ones. I haven't started on the Cathe ones yet, but they give me something to work toward. I think figuring out a new workout is what keeps my interest. I got the G-Force with using the rebounder a couple of years ago and for the next couple of weeks, I'm focusing on rebounding. I have some J.B. Burns DVD's that use the rebounder and so I alternate his DVD's with the G-Force. Anyway, if I mix it up, it stays fun and motivating for me....:)

[LoriInND]

Rita - Welcome - what an inspiring post!

[Toyota2005]

Rita,

I am so proud of you!! I too believe that your testimony is very inspiring. I'm so overwhelmed with everything you've written that I don't know what to say:)

You were 3 years younger than I am now when you started the FIRM. It's possible for me to get back into my size 8. I'm speechless. Your post means a lot to me. It's possible that I can wear a size 8 instead of 18 when I'm 60.

Thank you so much for sharing your story!!! You have climbed a real mountain and I'm struggling to climb an imaginary one:(

[Toyota2005]

Leeanng,

I am going to buy a Fit Prime dvd or video. I've viewed segments of them on the website. I like them all. I'm not ready for kickbutt yet:)

Which one do you recommend that I try first?? Also, how many days of the week do you do the FIRM/Fit Prime??