Hi, again! I'm glad there is so much interest in BODYPUMP. It really does get the job done!
A few of you have asked specific questions, which I will attempt to answer:

1. BODYPUMP is an international program that was developed in New Zealand, and is now being enjoyed by over 4 million people worldwide. It is strictly weight training with barbells and plates, but you do too many repetitions to get 'bulky.' You will gain some muscle, but you also burn fat. Pound for pound, muscle only takes up half of the space of fat. I went through a three month period where I didn't lose a single pound but lost three full dress sizes! Bottom line: BODYPUMP works!

2. You need to do the class at least two times a week to get results, and you need to rest a full day between classes for your muscles to recouperate.

3. Anyone who is physically capable of weight training can do the program. I have women in my classes who are over 70! The class is designed to be all-iclusive for people of all fitness levels. Each class begins with a lesson on how to lift properly, even if everyone in the class has done it before. All muscle groups are exercised, including the abs, and most exercises include both beginner and advanced technique options. If you let your instructor know before class starts that you need the options, he or she will happily demonstrate them without putting you under a spotlight. There are also options available to help people who have issues with their shoulders, knees, mobility, etc.

4. BODYPUMP, and the other Les Mills programs (BODYSTEP, BODYFLOW, BODYCOMBAT, RPM spinning, and BODYATTACK) are newer to the United States. You can find out if there is a club near you by going to the Les Mills website at
www.lesmillsusa.com
Click on the class locator and follow the instructions. You can also read in-depth descriptions of all the programs.

5. The programs are prechoreographed and change every three months so you don't get bored. You can go to any club in the world and be guaranteed the same, fabulous workout! The music is exciting and energizing, and you almost feel like you're part of a show, rather than an exercise class!

6. You can do BODYPUMP in conjunction with any other exercise program you're involved in. In fact, BODYPUMP makes you stronger and helps improve your performance in anything from skiing to walking around the neighborhood. I live in New England and burn with firewood. BODYPUMP has helped me to load my wood rack in less than half the time it used to take, so even everyday tasks are improved.

I am obviously enthralled with these programs and am happy to answer any questions you might have. I have watched them deliver the goods to dozens and dozens of people here in the little town I call 'home,' and I know that they can help anyone who is physically capable of doing them!