For workout buffs who just can’t get enough

About a decade ago, cardiovascular exercise was all about intensity -- how fast you could move, how much you could sweat, how long you could last in your target heart-rate zone. Then came yoga and Pilates, offering more moderate workouts. For those who miss the intensity, there’s “Hardcore Kickbox Circuit,” a new video that promises a vigorous challenge.

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Hardcore Kickbox Circuit: This 64-minute video combines kickboxing in a group fitness setting, upper and lower body sculpting, plus some aikido mat exercises that work the core. Fitness instructor and certified trainer Janis Saffell and martial artist Guillermo Gomez alternate as leaders of the segments, which are not for the out of shape. There are no modifications for a less intense workout, and Gomez recommends taking some kickboxing classes before attempting the video to be familiar with body placement and the more difficult moves. Cardio routines include punches, knee lifts and a variety of kicks. Gomez, a Florida-based, third-degree black belt in aikido, decided to add the mat work “because it hasn’t really been used for fitness. I thought it would be a good idea to explore something different.”

Price: Hardcore Kickbox Circuit is $19.95 for VHS and $24.95 for DVD, available at www.collagevideo.com.

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-- Jeannine Stein