This tape takes a more instructional approach
than usual to funk dance. Charlotte begins with a rather
lengthy lecture on how to add funk mannerisms to basic
steps, uses the warmup to demonstrate some of the most
basic ones (chest isolations, arm movements) and then
shows off a variety of funk moves during the 35 minute
workout. Instead of creating long combos, Charlotte puts
together a couple of steps and shows how to vary them up
or down in intensity, repeats them a few times, then
moves on quickly to the next steps, much like in Strong
and Smooth Moves or Kathy Smith's floor workouts.
Production-wise, Funk It Up is a notch above Charlotte's
other one-hour funk workout, Power Dance Mix, with its
snappy set decorated with road signs, better sound, and
catchier music including hits like "Super
Freak". Power Dance Mix is a better choice for
advanced exercisers who are used to complex combos, but
Funk It Up might be good for dance-challenged
intermediates who want the most painless, hand-holding
instruction. Charlotte is easy to follow and occasionally
funny - I like her "doo-wipe" step! For
intermediates, I give it an A.
Sue Bryant
8/8/97