My first step is to preview the workout. I use the fast forward button liberally, as I'm doing what I recommend everyone should do with a new video, getting a general idea of what to expect from the workout. Then I do the workout, usually with the weights and props suggested. If the exercise calls for 3 to 5 pounds, that's what I use even if I can handle more weight. Occasionally workouts call for heavier weights than I usually use. Because I want to be safe and not sore, in this case I use weights appropriate for me. As I do the workout, I listen carefully for instructions and cues, often looking away from the TV to see if I can follow along by using only the verbal cuing. I make a few workout notes -- my personal response to the workout and instructor, things that I want to change the next time I do it, my general impression of the workout.

Next, with my review sheet and remote control in hand, I sit down to analyse the workout. Here I use the rewind button a lot. I count the reps per set and keep track of the number of sets done for each muscle group. I time the speed of the strength training reps and bpm of the aerobic music. I note the time spent on each type of exercise - warm-up, aerobics, cooldown, strength training and stretching. I pay careful attention to the instructor's form, verbal instructions, cues, form pointers, and intensity options. I note whether extra information is provided before or after the workout itself.

I approach each workout from a first timer's point of view and ask these questions:

Does this instructor cue and demonstrate well enough for a novice to learn the exercises correctly and safely?
If you were to do this workout only once a month would you have trouble following along?
Are the strength training exercises appropriate for the designated level?
Is the aerobic footwork, whether simple or complex, cued well enough to be easy to follow?
Are options for different levels of fitness discussed or shown?
What would make the workout easier for beginners?
...harder for intermediates or advanced?
...safer and more effective for all levels?

After analysis of my review sheet and workout notes I write my first draft which includes a list of form pointers and exercise options for the workout. I like to do a workout at least five times before finalizing my review. Sometimes I read the review ahead of time, sometimes I don't, but after every workout I make notes and reread my review. As necessary, I revise the review and do the workout again and again until I'm happy with my review.

In my reviews I evaluate

the safety and effectiveness of the exercises used

whether the exercises are good choices for the intended level of exerciser

whether correct exercise form is demonstrated throughout

if strength training exercises are balanced between opposing muscle groups

whether strength training exercises are done at a safe and effective speed

how thoroughly the instructor teaches each exercise

whether the warm-up, cooldown and stretch do their jobs

how smoothly new moves, changes and transitions are cued

whether the workout delivers what the title, cover or introduction promises

whether the workout is motivating and entertaining enough to do again

Next I give each video a rating. My ratings reflect my opinion of the workout's value from an exercise perspective. I try not to let the music or the instructor's clothing, teaching style, personality, or quirks affect my assessment of the exercise value of the workout. But I do mention in my review if the instructor has some unusual quirks or if the production quality of the video is poor.

What the stars mean:

	Buy this workous and do it often! It's a well-designed workout with good instruction and excellent technique. It's a safe and effective workout, well worth adding to your collection.
	Buy this workout, but make some changes. It does the job well but has some flaws that need correction.
	This workout is mediocre, with many flaws that need correction. If you own it and like it, you should make adjustments to avoid future injuries or problems. If you don't own it, look for a better tape.
	This workout is out-of-date and/or has too many flaws to correct easily. It may present a poor workout design, incomplete or difficult-to-follow instructions, incorrect exercise form or out-of-date exercises. If you own it, it's time to replace it with a better tape.

The exercise levels as I see them:

Beginner	You have not exercised regularly in the past year or longer. You are a newcomer to strength training exercises and to choreographed video workouts. You are returning to exercise after an illness or injury break and need low intensity workouts.
Intermediate	You have been doing video workouts at least 3 times a week for 3 or 4 months. You are familiar with basic floor and step aerobic footwork. You know basic strength training exercises and use light weights (3 to 5 pounds).
Advanced	You have been working out regularly for over 6 months, usually 4 or 5 times a week. You have progressed to heavier weights for strength training. You can handle longer, higher intensity step and floor aerobic workouts.
Very Advanced	You have been working out regularly for years and are very active. You work out 5 or 6 times a week and perhaps play a sport. You like to challenge yourself with long workouts, high intensity step or floor aerobics, and heavy strength training.