Debra Mazda's ShapelyGirl Fitness

Testimonials

Thank you so much Debra. My eyes are teary and I do believe that there is a demon telling me I can't do it. I feel like I have gained everything back and should just stop even though I know I have not. I just don't think I can do it, and it's probably because I have never tried and don't think it can be done. I realized that I can't do this by myself and I need encouraging people around me and I THANK YOU for BEING THAT PERSON. I never knew that this would be such an emotional ride for my life. I thank God he brought you and all the girls I met my way. I can't wait to be at the finish line looking back and helping others through their process. Losing weight is not just about me but everyone around me and who are involved in my life. Thank you for being a blessing in my life and I won't GIVE UP!
Sherri (Philadelphia, PA)

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Debra, I just wanted to say THANK YOU so very much for all that you do. I am so glad that I came across your video on Collage about 2 years ago. You have encouraged me to see the importance of being healthy vs. being skinny. Being mindful of what I put into my body. I am thankful for your insight especially since I am a mother.

I realize that children watch EVERYTHING that we do and especially little girls when it comes to their mommy's. With my last pregnancy I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. NO ONE in my family is diabetic at all. So talk about being scared. I refused to accept that it is something that just happens sometimes. I viewed it as the fact that from Aug 2008 - Jan 2009 I had gained 30 lbs! I changed jobs with an extended lunch break and longer hours. Exercising fell off my radar and I ate whatever my heart desired. So now I had to deal with the fact that my body was going to pack on more weight during the pregnancy.

My light bulb moment was when I was having my cesarean and I could hear the doctors talking over me and my doctor said that I had poorly managed diabetes. I just cried! I knew right then I had to do something to make a change. Aware that the odds of diabetes returning later in my life simply because I had it during my second pregnancy made me want to take control. I would hate to become a burden to my husband, kids and family due to something that I have the power to control. I would rather be proactive as opposed to reactive.

Luckily, my glucose levels have been tested and have returned to normal. So I have a standing date multiple times a week with you and the ShapelyGirls. You're motivation and positivity makes me want to get off the couch or miss a TV show just to make sure I get my workout in. The best part......my 4 year old puts on her exercise gear and her sneakers and is right by mommy's side! One of our ways of bonding without having to sacrifice what I HAVE to do with a few moments during my day.

As my girlfriends and I are getting older it is very clear that we are not the same 18 year olds that first met on a college campus. As children take up our time and now instead of birth control pills, some of us have now been prescribed diabetes medications and high blood pressure pills. All while the scale goes higher and higher. The clothing sizes do as well. Debra, I don't have a second thought about telling people I know “I have a DVD that I would like for you to try. You know what you have to do, don't you?" I feel like we have to help each other realize that it isn't too late to be who you might have been. Also, I am the only me that I have. I don't have to be a size 6. I am fine with that. I like my curves. But, know what I love...when I can run up and down the stairs, chase behind my kids, be active and not feel like I am going to pass out, know that my kids are seeing a habit that they will carry into their own lives and see it as important.

The best part for me so far is going to the doctor and NOT being afraid! Knowing that I am working on lowering the weight into a healthy range, knowing that I am watching what I eat, and the bottom line knowing that I am on a journey to being healthy and fit. Fitness really does come in many sizes and I am so thankful that you have made the commitment to spreading the message.
Aja (South Carolina)

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Thank you SO much for finally putting larger women in a workout video!!! I feel RIDICULOUS looking at or working out in front of a video full of skinny women who don't even look like they need to lift the DVD box, let alone do the workout in it!! It gets VERY discouraging!! So thank you thank you thank you for realizing that "Fitness Comes in MANY sizes" and not all those sizes are XS!!! :)
Lisa (Burlington, KY)

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A MESSAGE TO THE OPRAH STAFF FROM AN ANONYMOUS FAN OF DEBRA'S: Debra will be an asset to your programming. She is a caring person and understands what it is like to be an overweight person in the world today. She will help others to see themselves as regular people. Please give her this chance to share what she knows and what she has learned.
Anonymous

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Debra.....I am a retired Flight Attendant that fell from the sky and on the way down picked up an extra 70 lbs. I just bought two of your DVDs and I must say IF YOU HAD YOUR OWN SHOW I WOULD WATCH IT EVERYDAY......AND WORK OUT WITH YOU EVERYDAY. I think you are just wonderful....I feel you know how I feel.... YOU HAVE MY VOTE....... Thank you!
Jane (Arizona)

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Debra, I voted for you because you are an awesome person who motivated me to start exercising. I didn't worry about food intake at this time, I just started moving. I found you on Facebook by accident and I know it was a sign, that I needed to just start moving. I like your videos because they show real women working out. All shapes and sizes instead of the skinny person who works out and you are try to keep up with. Keep doing what you are doing because us girls need to stick together and help each other out. Thank you and wish you best of luck with Oprah!!!
Kelly (Brentwood, CA)

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Hi Debra! I am 45 years old mother of 2, I have been diagnosed with under-active thyroid (currently taking eltroxin), and full menopause since 37 (currently on a low dose birth control). I am 5 foot 2 inches and weigh 140 pounds (morning weight) and currently a size 7 or 9. I worked out at Curves from 2008-2009 and then joined the YMCA where I currently work out (I mostly do classes aqua fit, hi/low impact arobics). I wanted to try a stepping class but was afraid since I had never done one before in my life. So I headed to my local library and borrowed your stepping video.

I did the stepping video approx 5 days a week for the last month and never went to the YWCA and I have never in my life lost so many inches and received so many compliments. That is when I ordered all your DVD's. You and your girls are sensational. I currently do the complete stepping video and I do the complete walking fit and fabulous video but I must admit I have not tried the other 2 yet.
Leslie (Hamilton, Ontario Canada)

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Hi Debra! Got your phone message and was looking forward to your email...got it later in the day. Hey, thanks! that was really nice of you! At the time of your phone message I was just leaving my friend Martha's house after completing your Walking Fit and Fabulous! DVD. We have worked out for several sessions now, and we just love it! When I got your phone message, I backed back up to Martha's driveway and played the message you left. Needless to say, we were very impressed to hear your voice and encouraging message! Martha is a breast cancer survivor, and your workouts really fit the bill for her.

The reasons I purchased several copies of your DVDs and the CD was so that I could share them with a few friends, including my daughter, Anna and my sister, Libby, who currently lives in California. I will be visiting her in about a week, and will take the Walking Fit & Fabulous and Let's Get Stepping DVDs, and the Inspirational CD for us to work out together with. Libby is not as shapely as Anna, Martha and I are, but she always appreciates a great workout, so I know we will have a good time.

When I first showed your Walking Fit and Fab to Martha, her first words were, Oh, they look like us!!! My Anna's first words were Oh, she's got chubby girls! Then she smiled. Anna frequently refers to herself as a chubby girl. After going through the DVDs with me she will probably change that terminology to a shapley girl. :-) Anna's build is very similar to Angel's. I got Anna a stepper this weekend, and she and I have a date for Let's Get Stepping coming up.

My hairdresser is a very large shapely woman and she was quite encouraged when she and I listened to your Circle Time from Walking Fit and Fab on Thursday 06/17/10. Although she is well over the 315 lbs you started with, your story was still a very positive one for her to hear. I felt free to introduce your DVDs to her after she inquired about my own exercise routine when I was getting my hair done the other week. I told her I was really concentrating on consistency these days, and that I had found a new walk aerobics type DVD that I thought she'd like...and...she really did :-)

So you see, I have a few friends and a few plans for us--all of which involve your fitness DVDs. I don't watch a lot of television, so I don't know if your DVDs are advertised on TV or elsewhere alot or not. But I stumbled across them accidentally while browsing the web one night looking to see if there was a new or different Leslie Sansone DVD that I would find helpful. In a couple of the Sansone customer reviews, women were favorably comparing your DVDs of real women exercising and leading the exercise. I'm so glad for those reviews; because of them I googled your name and discovered your website. It was very helpful for me to have that little preview of your tapes (DVDs) available to listen to online. Once I saw what I would be getting, there was no contest, and no hesitation on my part. I bought my first two of your DVDs on Ebay because I thought I'd only be purchasing the one described in the comments. But because I liked the product so much after trying it, I decided to go back to your web page and search around for other items. The buy 3 or 4 combo discount you offer was helpful, because I like to share a good thing with friends.

I've been running on and on, but like Forrest, I'm going to stop now. Thanks,
Betty (Ann Arbor, MI)

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My name is Christy & I am a 41 yr old single mom. Due to the demanding pressures of work & family, I found I constantly turned to food for comfort! I ballooned to a size 18 but am holding a pair of old size 16 jeans (mine!) that literally hang off me now. I began walking 5 days a week & also began working w/ weights. I have really enjoyed getting fit & the encouragement is helpful. Now that I have started school full-time, the worst thing I could do is turn to food again to combat stress. Your DVD's are great sources of inspiration!

I limited my portions when eating & cut out fried foods, sugary snacks & sodas. I had low energy before I began my weight loss venture; I also struggled w/ low self-esteem & confidence. I also quit smoking cigarettes after 20 yrs & by doing so, am now able to get more results during my cardio workouts!! I went from 170 lbs to 145 lbs (and counting) by eating whole foods, fresh fruit & lean meats. I drink a ton of water and...exercise!! I feel great & my 16 yr old son is proud of me! Keep pushing yourselves, ladies! You can do it!! Best wishes!!
Christy (Philadelphia, PA)

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I just started using Debra's workouts and let me say in one word FUN!!!! Anyone, Any Size, Any Weight can do her workouts! I love that Debra keeps telling us that YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!! You know what? She's right!!!! The workout goes by so fast! The music is Great, The moves are fun and Debra is a inspiration to all Women!!! Thank you Debra for being here for all of us Women in every shape and size!
Anonymous (Pennsylvania)

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Debra, for many years I've been around 50-60 pounds over my ideal weight (ideal being not skinny). I have tried many diets that have all failed, and I hadn't been serious about exercise. But I recently found that what really works is to do as you say, to start exercising first, get in the habit of moving every day, and then when moving is a habit, then start focusing on changing eating habits.

Since February, I've been working out with my 13-year-old daughter 3 or 4 times a week using one of your DVDs, and taking a 45-minute walk about 3 or 4 times a week. I was trying to "eat healthy" most of the time, but had some setbacks. Then 3 weeks ago I got serious about it, and for the past 3 weeks I haven't had a single slip up. I haven't weighed myself, but I know I've lost weight. I can tell by the way my clothes feel, and I feel SO much better! I now eat almost everything I want, but in moderation. What I crave now is healthy food, not the junk I used to stuff myself with. What's more, I'm teaching my daughter these good habits. She's not overweight now, but she has the tendency to put on weight because she's built like me.

Since I started working out with your Shapelygirl DVDs, my daughter comes home from school and says, "Mom, let's exercise with Debra Mazda!" - because she knows how good she's going to feel afterwards. We also take walks together. My daughter's grades have improved since she has started an exercise program at home. I'm sure her brain is benefiting from it just as her body is. She's energized to get her homework done, sleeps better, and is more alert in class. YOU are to thank for this. Just being who you are - so approachable, so likable, so down to earth - and saying, "I know what you're going through because I've been there", that's what has motivated me to keep this up, and it's why my daughter is so interested in being healthy and fit.

Thank you!!! Carmen (Raleigh, NC)

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"Debra, I love your workout DVDs! I recently got around to purchasing your fourth DVD (I have two high-energy kids, so it takes me a while to get around to things on my "to do" list!) and absolutely love it. They're perfect the way they are, but I also discovered how easy it is to modify when I was recovering with a knee injury a few months ago. Your workouts were among the few in my exercise DVD collection which I could use regularly without putting too much stress on my recovering knee. I also look forward to receiving your email newsletters - always something informative and encouraging in every one. Do you have plans to produce a fifth workout DVD? I hope so! Thank you so much for providing such excellent workouts!"

Bernadette (Ocean Township, NJ)

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"Hi Debra. I just discovered ShapelyGirl a few months ago on my cable's On Demand channel. I loved it. I bought Let's Get Moving 1 & 2. I have lost 10lbs along with Shapely Girl, my Wii fit, and eating right. Thanks for keeping me positive!"

LaSonya (Dayton, OH)

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"Hi Debra. I was just thinking about writing you since I wanted to let you know that I noticed a huge difference in my strength and stamina when I shoveled the snow and ice from my driveway on Sunday. I know it's because I've been doing your workouts, especially the cardio with weights, since about October. I have all 4 of your videos and do each one once a week, and the weights one I do twice. I can't wait to get the new one. Also, I have to tell you that I have noticed that my thighs and butt are firming up! ;) You're right on when you say "we're going to sculpt and tone your body! Your Hannah is adorable!"

Elizabeth (Chapel Hill, NC)

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"Debra, I had gastric bypass surgery done 7 years ago and lost 125 lbs. I have put on 35 lbs. over the past few years and decided it was time to do something about it. I started feeling after they cut me open they were done with me. No teaching me how to eat or exercise. I decided to buy a wii and was excited when it came. Well, I used it one time and was so upset that I was done! It made fun of me, told me I had no balance, made funny noises and made me feel stupid. I took it back the next day and decided to find a few DVDs to work out to.

On Collage Video you are able to watch a little snippet of each video and being a beginner with no rhythm or ability to do aerobics, your video looked doable for me. I love it! A few of the moves are still a little hard for me, that whole "do this with your arms and this with your legs" thing throws me off sometimes but I've got to wonder why I'd never heard of you before. You are for every woman! You never see "real" women of different sizes doing workout videos. I don't want to work out with "skinny minis" and feel like a moose. That's not inspirational at all! You are! I'm so happy I found you. I do my tape every other night and look forward to it! It's only been a week and a half but I feel stronger already! You are awesome and I thank you for what you've given this "every woman!"

Robin W. (Seattle, WA)

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"Debra, here are 2 more women whose lives are being changed for the better, because of you. I don't have a huge weight problem, but have recently gained about 15 pounds since I'm menopausal, and don't want it to get out of control. I don't need to diet, but just need to move more. So I discovered your DVDs.

I do your workout almost every day, alternating cardio, weights, and step. You make it so much fun, and I love your philosophy that fitness comes in many sizes.

My partner is a beautiful shapelygirl who has been struggling with her weight for years. I recently got her hooked on your workout DVDs and she's finally motivated to exercise. She looks forward to working out with you and the other shapelygirls every day. Thank you for motivating her and helping her realize that she can be fit too.

I also wanted to compliment the team - they're a gorgeous bunch of shapely women! It's so obvious you're all having a blast, which really helps me to keep going. I always get a kick out of Angel when she's hopping and you say "Angel, are you marching?" and she says "I'm hopping!!" (I think in future videos, more of this kind of interaction would be great.)

Thanks again for all you do for so many people!"

Liz and Maria (North Carolina)

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"I have never written to any instructor before I just wanted to say how much I love your DVDS. I never had a problem with weight but after 50 and throyaid problems and disk problems it is a stuggle. I am having so much fun with your DVDS. No dread factor at all I just purchased your step tape what a blast!!! Please make another one soon. Thank you for caring and making working out fun again."

Deborah (Ellsworth, OH)

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"Hey Debra...Wow, I was so surprised to receive a reply from you personally! I am a woman who has had weight problems all her life. I am 53 now and so far have lost 35 pounds just by using walking dvds. Up until now all I used was Leslie Sansone workouts. She has gotten me this far but I am at a standstill, so I wanted to find something different to get the scale dropping again. I think your program will trigger the metabolism. It seems so easy and you seem to be on the same track as Leslie in not making me feel that I cant do it, but at least try it. So after I worked out yesterday with the DVD of yours that I rented I figured I might as well order it and see what other ones you have out there. I ordered 3 of your workouts. One is on backorder, which is the one I rented from Netflix so I guess you know one dvd that I won't be returning so soon. At least until I receive the other two I ordered. So Debra thank you so much for putting together a workout that all of us shapely women can use and enjoy. I am so happy I found you.... Thanks for helping me....."

Rose (Montgomery, NY)

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Hi Debra,Keep up the good workRegards,Paramjit Click here to view Paramjit's blog Paramjit Sidhu , via - Facebook

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"Debra, I hope you woke up today and knew you changed someones life for the better. I have written this new post on my blog today - with tears in my eyes.http://vanessareece.com/2009/09/17/the-secret-of-happiness-is-freedom-and-the-secret-of-freedom-is-courage-thucydides/I am still not smoking and still no soda. I'm finding it hard but the words are ringing in my hears 'lifestyle change' . I will continue. Once a month is up I will embark on your work outs - I'll be ready because my mind will be in a better place. I'll also be documenting this journey on Curvy TV. Have a great day."

Vanessa

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”This is my first Debra Mazda workout DVD but it won't be my last! I think Debra has a wonderful personality and I found her to be very motivating. I was also impressed by her fellow exercisers on the DVD and found them to be very motivating as well. I love how this DVD has chapters, very upbeat music, and the movements were easy to follow. When I do a workout, I want to concentrate on doing the movements, not how do I move this foot and that arm, and end up having to keep going back because the movement was too complicated to learn the first couple of tries. Debra does a great job of explaining beforehand what move is coming next, and I love the way she encourages you to keep moving...keep going! I especial.ly enjoyed the "Circle Time" chapter at the end of the DVD. I thought it was great how everyone shared their stories and fitness tips! I already have several of Leslie Sansone's workouts and wanted to try something different; and at this point I definitely like Debra’s Walking Fit and Fabulous! the best. I feel that it gives me a better, more effective workout. Thanks Debra!”

Jane (Beloit, WI)

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”WHY I LOVE TO EXERCISE:If you were to ask me this 2.5 years ago, I would have said, “to lose weight.” Most people I knew only exercised to do this. I was really overweight, and I needed to lose the weight so for the first time really, I got a few exercise dvds, and I did it [and I lost weight]. Then I got sick, and gained most of the weight back. Being on bedrest, I was dying for movement.And then it hit me. I wanted to exercise. I wanted to move. Not. just for weight loss but I want to be able to be as mobile and flexible as possible. And by being immobile because of being ill, I was craving it. And by exercising for the sake of moving... it’s such a different mindset.Now, I love to exercise because I love the different feelings. When I do cardiovascular workouts, I love the fact I’m sweating so hard, and my heart is pumping and I can get through the workout without wanting to drop in a heap. (Or, even, sometimes, I love the fact at the end I can drop in a heap, because I worked out so vigorously!) But I love marking my endurance.

When I do strength training, I love feeling the burn in my muscles. When it really burns, I just think about all the good it’s doing for me (as I am yelping because it kills - admit it. Everyone yelps!). When I do dynamic stretching, yoga and ballet/barre work, I love how it makes me feel longer and leaner in the sense that I am being stretched head to toe and I feel tingly all over. And at the end of it, I just feel GOOD. Rarely ever do I finish a workout and go “Well, dang, I wish I didn’t do it”. It’s more often “I wonder if I do it 3 times a day is it too much?!”I would exercise, even if someone came to me and said you would always be your current size. And I will point out that weight loss again is now not the most motivating factor (and I personally thing this may be the main detractor for some people). It’s easy to NOT exercise because you want to lose weight (see: any failed diet). But when you think about your health: Cardiovascular system, toned muscles, a healthy lower and upper back and flexible joints... that is enough to keep me pressing play any day of the week.It’s always going to hurt the first time... and the second... and maybe the third time you start. It’s going to hurt when you do a different style workout. But I know from personal experience sitting down doing nothing hurts all the time. So get up, get moving and your body will love you for it. And you’ll love it too :)I just wish that Debra Mazda was around in high school. I would have been more exercise gung-ho!"

Livvie (Ontario, Canada)

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”Finally exercise DVDs made for real women with no complicated steps and just so much fun! I feel like I am working out with my girlfriends. Living in Australia, there is nothing like Debra's DVDs here, so I am eagerly waiting for the new Walking DVD to arrive, Oh by the way I have lost 2 kilo's (have no idea what that is in lbs). Debra, keep making those wonderful DVDs as you have a customer for life. Cheers!”

Kay (Narrabundah, Australia)

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”Hi Debra. I had surgery 6 weeks ago. I have been doing wonderful. Two weeks after my surgery I was cleared to start low-impact (because of the arthritis in my knees) exercise. I started using your workout DVD and am doing so good. I started at 217 and as of today I am down to 194. I am very excited! I have been taken off all my high blood pressure pills. It is still a little high but the doctors feel that if I keep up at this rate I will be doing well in no time.The hardest part is getting myself out of bed at 5 AM every morning to exercise.”

Paula (North Carolina)

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" We finally got together to do your work out video. We are so impressed at the thought you put into your workouts. Honestly anyone at any weight and size can do your workouts. You and your lovely models are proof that you can be fit and fabulous at any size! So many people shy away from exercise classes and video's because they are afraid it will be to hard or they won't fit in. The truth is that the average woman looks exactly like you lovely ladies and us! We will be promoting you every chance we get and as soon as we get our blog situation figured out we will have a permanent link directly to you. We have also decided that your videos will always be a part of the prizes in all of our challenges. Thank you for being so sweet and all of your support! We feel really blessed to have met you and are so grateful to call you a friend.”

Shannon&Angie www.weightlosswiththefabulousfatties.wordpress.com

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”Hi Debra,I was so excited when I saw your email pop up! Thank you so much for taking the time to email me, I can only imagine how busy you are!I wanted to share something with you about the first time I did your first DVD. I got to the end and felt fabulous and we (I like to say we as I feel I'm in a personal class) were cooling down and you were talking and I burst into tears. I was so overwhelmed by your genuine nature and the message you are sending to others, like me, who carry extra weight. I have never had a confidence problem but trying to get others to understand that I actually love my body, regardless of it's size is very difficult. To hear you echo my own thoughts made me feel AMAZING!I wish you EVERY success Debra, and I will gladly spread the word here in Australia - my friends are all listening!”Stay well,

Sandii (Perth, Australia)

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”Debra, I just want to tell you that I have both your videos and I absolutely love them! I have been exercising since I was 19 years old (I'm now 52) and have been in pretty good shape until the last 7 years. I had a hysterectomy, went thru menopause, and put on about 60 pounds.Needless to say it has been pretty depressing trying to workout to other videos and having to look at tiny, muscular women. Knowing that no matter how hard I worked out I could never look like them and feeling like I failed because I couldn't. Then I came across your first video and decided to give it a try. I liked it so much that I bought your second video. They're fun, motivating, the music is great and I like that you stress that "fitness comes in all sizes". It takes the pressure off and I feel like I can accept myself at this size.I may be overweight but I still exercise 5 days a week and I look forward to doing both your videos. I hope to see you come out with another video incorporating some light weights. Thank you again for the great job. It makes a difference when someone can relate to the struggle that a lot of us go thru".

Roberta (Worcester, MA)

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"Debra, I am SO FEELING YOU!!!!! You are just the cutest thing - you are just GREAT - I was searching plus size fitness, as I am looking for some different tapes to add to my selections for '09 exercise choices and discovered you = you are so GOOD!!! I immediately ordered your DVD and look forward to spending time working out with you and the ShapelyGirls in the comfort of my home, helping me to get in shape every morning. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful - great inspiration! ”

Sue (Brooklyn, NY)

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”Debra. Just got your new step workout yesterday, and did it last night -- WOW! Another winner! The choreography is deceptively simple -- but it was incredibly challenging! Also, you've included some really fun combos and arm movements - and the toning section is also wonderful! What a great step workout! Congratulations on another winner!"BERNADETTE'S REVIEW ON AMAZON: "The choreography is deceptively simple, but really gets your heart rate up - easy footwork makes it a breeze to follow. Debra adds some fun arm/leg combos - and her cuing is excellent. The four women stepping with her show various easy/hard modifications (for example, lowest step height, no arms, highest step height, etc.). I've been stepping a while, and I found it very easy to add challenge by just exaggerating the movements or adding some plyo (leaping) where needed. A short but very effective toning section at the end is also excellent. I recommend this DVD very highly!"

Bernadette (Ocean, NJ)

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"This seller IS NOW my best yet on Amazon.com. I ordered my item on October 17th. Delivery estimate was October 24th-Nov 10th. My item arrived on October 20th in brand new condition as said. ShapleyGirl Fitness, keep up the good work and offer more products for plus size women because I will keep ordering from you as will all my shapley friends - I have spread the word already! THANK YOU :) :) :)"

Anita (Columbus, OH)

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"I'm thrilled to see your next DVD is coming soon! I've already ordered it and am now waiting eagerly for its release. I absolutely love your "Let's Get Moving!" workout and have recommended it to many people. I hope Collage Video plans to carry your step workout, as I am sure it will be just as popular as your first!"

B. Rogoff (Wanamassa, NJ)

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"Wow, i have bought videos before, joined gyms before, but there is NOTHING like this DVD. i have been struggling with my weight for so long, feel self conscious to go to a gym, and when i saw this DVD i knew it was something i had to have. not only do i feel better when watching it, but the instructor is SO motivating and makes you feel comfortable b/c she has been through the weight loss struggles. the moves are not too hard, yet it is enough exercise to get a good workout in! i can do it in the comfort of my own home, and seeing these other larger women be able to do the moves, makes me feel that i can do it too! there is nothing else like this, and it is great to see that someone out there is looking out for us "big" girls to help get us fit! the hardest part is getting started but i promise you that if you buy this video, you will never want to stop using it!"

Beth (Minneapolis, MN)

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"I weighed 250 pounds on 9/15/2008. I began writing down everything that I ate and staying under 1200 calories a day. I hit a plateau at 238 on 10/8/08. I thought if I could excercise it might help me lose weight faster. So I went online and found Debra Mazda's video. I love it because I can do it at home and as of today, 11/13/08 I am at 230 lbs. 20 lbs lost and only 80 to go, ha ha. I truly believe with watching calories and working out 3-5 times per week will get me there. I already feel much better."

D. Cole (El Sobrante, CA)

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"Hi Debra. Just wanted to add my comments about this awesome new DVD. I have been teaching group exercise classes for over 18 years now. In addition to being a certified instructor, I'm also a certified personal trainer, and I even wrote a fitness column in a local newspaper for 11 years. So I've seen a lot of fitness fads, weird diets, and strange approaches, and in spite of it all, nothing works but good eating plus exercise. Over the years, I've had a lot of experience working with women who want to get fit and lose weight, and it is a struggle, especially when you're trying to get started! The best aspect of this DVD is that it is CREDIBLE. If you are a beginner and not the biggest fan of exercise, all you have to do is put this DVD in your player, and you can't help but to follow along. There are four Shapely Girls doing this workout with Debra (ok, since she's the leader, I guess that makes 5 Shapely Girls!), so it's not like you're faced with "Size 2" fitness models smiling sweetly saying, "come on, you can do it!". But when you see these girls being able to follow and having fun, you can't help but think, "hey, I can do it too!".The moves are basic and safe, but also fun and effective, so you don't have to worry about awkward, hard -to-follow routines. And that's the whole point, fitness is for EVERY body. There's no magic workout, no magic diet. The key is to find an activity you like and stick with it. Combine that with healthy eating, and there's your answer. The ShapelyGirl Workout is a great tool, and Debra is a leader you can believe in -- she's been there, done that, and she's succeeded -- how motivating! Thanks Debra, for producing a DVD for real women that's real fun!"

Lisa (Dallas, TX)

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"You really are something special, Debra. You have that "it" factor that people talk about. You have that unique ability to connect with people and to meet them where they're at in life. I learned so much from you. Your teaching style is wonderful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and passion with us."

Kate (Philadelphia)

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"I love the Shapely Girl DVD. This is the first one I have ever bought. I want more. Do you plan to make another? I want another Debra Mazda DVD. She really inspires me."

Lisa (Godfrey, IL)

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"Hi Debra, I bought your Let's Get Moving! DVD through Collage Video and I just love it!!!! It gives a workout at all levels. I'm 64 and found that I can "kick it up a notch" as Emeril would say, and make it tougher by jogging. For the whole middle section, while using my arms, I jog and it really gives me an awesome workout! I am so looking forward to your next DVD!! Keep up the good work!"

Harriet (New Hampshire)

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"Dear Debra,Just wanted to let you know that I recently purchased your "ShapelyGirl" exercise video (from Collage Video), did it for the first time on Monday, and really enjoyed it. I've been an on-and-off exerciser for years, and am pretty out of shape, so the video was really just right - challenging enough, but not too horrible! I actually felt good afterward.. Thank you for developing and producing such an excellent program. I also want to point out specifically how much I appreciate the tone of the video. All too often, gym classes and videos geared toward so-called beginners can be a little patronizing/condescending, and your program isn't like that at all. It's also been a (psychological) challenge for me to balance improving my body, yet accept my curves. Note that I'm 5'4" tall, weigh about 160 lbs., and wear a size 12-14; I have two children, and my midsection is pretty much shot. Little by little, I plan to get back on the fitness track. Though you don't know me, I feel like you and the other Shapely Girls are cheering me on in spirit! All the best."

M. Brooks (Albuquerque, NM)

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"I just tried your Let's Get Moving! DVD and I absolutely love it! Thank you so much for making this program! I heard on the forum at Collage Video that you have other DVDs in the works. What will they be like? I'm hoping you'll post details on your website even before they're available. I have one request. I would love to see an aerobic weight training program next - easy to follow choreography while using hand weights. I'm concerned about losing muscle when I lose weight (not just fat) so would really love to see hand weights as part of your next program!"

C. Caldwell (Campbell River, Canada)

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"Hi Deb,I think you try to teach women self-love and self-acceptance - which is a very difficult area for us "shapely girls" to wrap our minds around. The media encourages self-loathing in "shapely girls," as we are constantly bombarded with the message that we are not healthy, beautiful or desirable if we're not thin. You dispel these negative messages while encouraging us to exercise and get healthy. You offer a tremendous amount of hope and provide tools to get healthy and improve our lives.Of course, this is particularly timely with the rise in obesity."

Lynn (Casselberry, FL)

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"I recently received your DVD from Collage video -- WOW! What a great workout! You've got a real winner there, and I certainly hope you plan to make more! It's easy on the knees, but you've got some challenging moves in the workout - I love it!"

Bernadette (Ocean, NJ)

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"Debra. I didn't realize my email would reach you personally. The second DVD is quite amazing and I am writing a "Dear Debra" diary that reflects the daily changes I see in my body as a result of your work-outs. You are the key to my success. I'm 55, soon to be divorced and have lost 35 pounds. Your encouragement, motivation and ability to convey to women who have given up on themselves is a blessing and I thank you. I am seeing the transformation that you talk about and I never thought it was possible.Thank you again and please try to get on some of the t.v. shows to spread your magic to others."

Robin (Philadelphia)

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"Debra, thank you for answering my question about the difference between the new DVD and your original one. I can't tell you how much you have changed my life. Until your first DVD there wasn't anything available that I could keep up with and see results. I've been on Nutrisystem for a few months and between that program and your work-out, I'm losing weight and seeing changes in my body that I never thought possible. I'm physically stronger and getting more fit each week.There is a population out there that needs you and doesn't know about you. It would be great if you could create more publicity for yourself, if you can handle it. I'm sure you're very busy with all the attention you've been getting but we need more Debra!!!"

Robin (Philadelphia)

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"I am so excited about your Lets Get Moving DVD! I can’t believe it: I feel like you are talking right to me! For years I have struggled with my weight and yes, I have always known that exercise is key to not only weight loss but also weight maintenance. We all know these things but yet, something has always stopped me from actually DOING it.I realize that so much of my unwillingness had nothing to do with an inability and everything to do with needing to finally really believe that as you say, “fitness comes in many sizes!”People say that larger women just don’t care about the fact that they aren’t fit but we know that isn’t true. We just need a safe place, someone like you, with your amazing and motivating workouts that seem tailored just for me: a larger woman who DOES care about being healthy and happy and satisfied my body, my curves.I love the upbeat music. I can say that I have fun doing your workouts! Wow, I have never said that about exercising before. For the first time I am feeling truly motivated and excited and I credit you and your workouts and your inspiring story of your own struggle with weight and health. It takes courage to not only overcome such challenges but to then share your story and help others like me, I truly feel like I am not alone. My only question is: when are you going to make another one? I can’t wait!"

Karen (Lansdowne)

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"First, about you -You have created an amazing, unique, special, important product that people are in NEED of - there is NO OTHER like you. You MOTIVATE like no other, you are strong, you make people believe in themselves, you allow people to have confidence in themselves, you are REAL - you have been in these women's shoes, so you KNOWWW where they are coming from. YOU will be able to deliver the message that MILLIONS of women NEED to hear. YOU are the one that can inspire..About the DVD -The moves are simple, the work is hard, we can follow from our own living room. Your speaking during the video will keep the people moving and not sitting back down on the couch. The intensity scale gives us something to measure the work against. The circle time creates community and comfort and is extremely informative."

Laurie (Philadelphia)

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"Twelve years ago, I weighed 270lbs. and was squeezing into a size 24. I felt disgusting and hopeless. I joined the local woman's gym with a friend and began to take Deb's classes. After one month, I lost 7lbs and became motivated to lose more. I continued to take Deb's classes and incorporated other classes as well and soon the weight began falling off. I began to realize that while I'll never be a size 6 or 8, I can like myself at a size 14..Debra became my personal trainer and soon I was down to a size 12 - losing about 100 lbs.I was so excited and was able to keep this weight off for about 5 years. Then I suddenly lost my sister and began to fall back into unhealthy habits, which caused me to gain 50lbs..After about a year of this weight gain, I began to do Deb’s DVD again and was able to lose 15lbs. But I still struggled with emotional eating so I hired Deb again to help. Through nutrition counseling, personal training and inspiring strategies and her techniques dealing with emotional eating, Deb helped me lose another 15lbs. I am now 20lbs away from my goal. What I like most about Deb's program is her ability to understand the struggles of overweight women and her sincere efforts in motivating them to become healthy. She helped me realize that I can have power over my eating and exercise is a huge factor in feeling good about myself. Her positive spirit plays an important part in keeping me motivated. Most importantly, she taught me that I can feel good, confident and sexy at a size 14!"

Lisa (Philadelphia)

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“Dear Debra. You seem to be a dream come true. After going to your website I knew this was what I was looking for. Your personality came right through."

"It was wonderful chatting with you recently. I am so scared and so exhilarated at the same time. You are truly so inspiring. Your message was very loud and clear, because you spoke from your heart as only someone can when they have experienced obesity. You said, “Dig deep inside yourself and you can become the you, you want to be”. Inspiring words. So easily said. But those giant sized words take great action. I am ready! Just hearing you talk about the virtues of fruits and vegetables. And the goodness of moving even for a simple 15 minutes. It sounded like heaven - or was it hell?

How many times have I been at this point in a diet program? At the start, standing on the top of a mountain and stretching for the stars, or at least a new slimmer body. There were all those hopes, dreams and promises pinned on the Atkins low carbohydrate diet and the famed Scarsdale diet, Jennie Craig, Weight Watchers, or the diet pills, injections and the famous Oprah liquid diet. My soul is crying for fairness and stamina. I’m chanting over and over again, “I will do this for me, this time and I will get to the finish line, and this time life will cooperate”. It is no wonder I am SCARED.

After my husband decided to reside at a different address, my life changed again and I ate my way into oblivion. My mom and sister were concerned, so they made me see a surgeon about a by-pass procedure or a rubber band. I prayed day and night for an alternative knowing I did not want to do this but I was at the end of my rope. There was no place else to go. It was my last resort. I could no longer live and carry all this ugly fat around anymore. My obesity put my health in danger. Sometime in July my husband and I reached a settlement and after a year of indecisions, my attitude seemed to revert back to the place were I was safe and secure. In a cocoon of positivity that brought me the success I enjoy in helping my clients feel as beautiful as they look. My passion returned. I felt rejuvenated. I needed to be in that place badly. Then, call it divine intervention, Debbie Nigro walked into the salon and the sun shone brighter that day because hope was on the horizon. She offers an alternative to surgery; her name is Debra Mazda.

That was a few weeks ago and after our initial meeting at the taping last week, I am exhilarated. Armed with a new food plan and the “Mazda Method” this truly is the first day of the rest of my new slimmer life. My mantra is simple. I will be my perfect weight.”

Elle (New York)

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“Debra, it was such a wonderful serendipity to meet you yesterday! I feel as though a major connection occurred between my soul and my body. I have always loved working out, but felt that I’d never be good enough until I looked like a size 3 with NO CURVES! I woke up sore this morning- and it made my day!!! That’s how I know I did more than I usually do! I so want to take your classes, but it’s hard to come from S.Jersey in the evenings and I am usually at my nursing job until 10 pm and my art job before then. So, thanks again for yesterday. Seldom in life do people take the time to thank others for anything; you really gave my soul a major boost; and I thought I was happy already!!!! Hope your day is as awesome as you!”

Lyn (New Jersey)

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“Hi Debra. Thanks for being so cordial and welcoming today. I really had a great time. If this is how fun you are to a complete stranger, I can’t imagine how fun it is when people REALLY get to know you all. I’ll be there next Saturday for sure!”

Kate (Philadelphia)

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“I just wanted to thank you for all your help and support that you have given me through this whole experience. I never in a million years thought that I would be able to do the Broard Street Run. But with your dedication to your group I was able to do it and finish. So I just want to thank you for all your support. Just taking your classes has helped me a whole bunch in my daily life struggles. I feel so good,and relieved. So if there is anybody out there who thinks they can’t do it come out to Debra Mazda's class and you will believe that all things are possible.”

Ronsheba (Philadelphia)

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“Debra, I saw you at the end of the run this morning-(I was on the bike) I should have said more—it was great you were there coaching and motivating along getting your people through to the end. BRAVO!! I attended classes with you when you had a studio (2nd floor) on 8th Street below Washington Ave. ( 15–20 years ago?) You were an awesome motivator then and I see you’re still at it.”

Molly (Philadelphia)

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“Dear Debra, I was inspired and impressed by your story. As an obesity researcher and clinician helping patients to lose weight, your leadership to overweight women who want to be fit is a great story to motivate all of us. All the best.”

Adam Gilden Tsai, MD University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

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“I just wanted to email you and say thank you first of all for the wonderful dinner we had last night. I also wanted to thank you most importantly for giving me this opportunity to do something that I have always wanted to do and never knew where to begin. You have showed me where to begin and opened a door for me which I never thought would be opened. I love you for this. I can not wait for tomorrow even though I am scared to death I know this will be a great success.”

Rosina (Philadelphia)