Years ago, I enjoyed working out to Billy Blanks' Tae Bo videos but my main form of exercise was going for brisk walks. I live in Wisconsin where at least four months out of the year, we are pretty much quarantined inside because of the cold so going for walks doesn't work out most of the time. I really had gotten out of shape and needed to lose weight when a friend of mine said she uses Jillian Michaels' DVDs to workout. I had never used one of hers before but figured it couldn't hurt to give it a try. I searched quite a bit and decided to try the 30-Day Shred since it seemed like a popular choice. Jillian Michaels is a fitness trainer and people may recognize her from her coaching on the show, The Biggest Loser. The 30-Day Shred consists of three different workouts which increase in intensity and use her 3-2-1 Interval System. Each workout is 20 minutes long with a two-minute warm-up before the workout and a two-minute cool down after the workout. There is a tiny break between each exercise so you can get in position and so Jillian can explain the exercise so the entire workout will take about 27 minutes total with the warm-up and cool down. Each 20-minute workout consists of three of the 3-2-1 circuits (all exercises are different so you won't get bored). For anyone who doesn't know this system (since I didn't before I got this DVD), there are three minutes of strength exercises followed by two minutes of cardio exercises followed by one minute of abs exercises. Once you complete the first circuit, you will start with the second circuit. The exercises get a bit harder as you progress in the workout but you get warmed up and used to them. There are three levels of workouts: levels one, two and three. Level one is the easiest but isn't considered "easy" by any means. I've been using this DVD for at least a few days every week and I'm on level two, which is still difficult but I'm getting better at it. To get the most benefit from the workout, you will want to purchase some hand weights. I am using three-pound weights which is what I started with and it's tough! If you are new to working out, I would start with a lower weight. If you are working out on a hard surface, you will also want to buy a yoga/exercise mat. Let me tell you, this DVD has been AMAZING so far! The first time I did it just under three months ago, I looked at the TV and thought "Are you kidding me????" because it was tough. I won't lie about that. A week later, I decided to try it again and it was a bit easier since I was somewhat familiar with the exercises. I discovered how much I enjoy the exercises and the feeling I get after an intense workout! There is such a variety of exercises that you won't likely get bored unless you feel it's time to move up to the next level, which is how I knew I was ready to try level two. I even get excited when I know I'm going to use this DVD! Jillian is very motivating and she will push you, which is a good thing. She jokes around with the girls who workout behind her. One girl will do the modified versions for beginners and one will do the advanced versions. Jillian does a great job pointing out the differences and explaining how to do the exercises so you are doing them correctly and getting the most out of the workout. I bought this DVD about two-and-a-half months ago and I've already lost 21 pounds! I use this DVD typically three or four times a week, along with eating healthy, and even walking outside when it's nice out. I'm very proud of what I've accomplished and I have Jillian Michaels to thank for designing an awesome workout system! I've told many of my friends that I use these DVDs and some of them have purchased them as well. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, I think you will enjoy this DVD and I highly recommend it!