The Voice of Mom

In terms of exercise videos, ones that teach you to dance while simultaneously working out are my very favorite. Although I am by no means a good dancer, I love to dance and really enjoy learning about different styles of dancing. So when the opportunity arose to check out the new Hemalayaa: Bollywood Booty workout video, I was all over it like Pooh Bear on honey.

Bollywood refers to the Mumbai-based center of Hindi-language movie making in India. Movies are known for their elaborate music and dance sequences, romantic plot lines and exquisite costumes. This video takes what could be a Bollywood dance sequence and breaks it down into a full workout.

The GOOD: The workout starts with basic moves and works up to a full Bollywood-style dance. Because it was so gradual, it’s really easy to pick up all the moves and feel like a beautiful star at the end of the movie. And it’s a great workout (says my BodyBugg and high-level of sweating at the end). You can’t help but dance to this with a goofy smile on your face.

The BAD: At only 45 minutes, I do wish there was a secondary dance to do since this was just so fun. Is that really bad though?

MONEY MATTERS: Hemalayaa: Bollywood Booty retails for $14.99 and is available in some stores and online at sites like Amazon (where it is only $12.99).

The MOM VERDICT

Sarah says: To say I really loved this video doesn’t do it justice. Not only did it feel like I got a great workout, but it was absolutely, positively fun. And ultimately, if you are going to take time away from your family to take care of your self, then it ought to be fun time, right? Well, with Bollywood Booty, it is. I especially loved the supportive hostess who tells you several times that you should smile like crazy and feel beautiful, because you are … and the dancing surely makes you feel like it. Two very enthusiastic thumbs up from this dancin’ mom.