Better Late than never, My review of Whip Basics #1
Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2009 8:49 am
Whip Basics Vol.1 is a walk through DVD for beginner or intermediate whip crackers to learn the basics of whip work, and all the foundation you need to know to be a truly intermediate, competent cracker.
There are several how-to-DVDs out there, but Whip Basics is honestly the best one I've seen. This video takes the time to really teach the basics of whips (basics that anyone of any level could really use), and the style is such that anyone, of any age should feel comfortable with it.
Whip Basics is simple and straight forward. You can watch the whole series of instructions in order, or go straight to the section or trick that you want to learn about. The DVD was designed by Robby Amper, an excellent instructor, and a man who clearly has a real love for the sport. Robby has a comfortable, easy going style in his instructions, though his voice got me a little tired at times. But, I did watch the entire DVD all the way through in one sitting, and there aren't many people who's voices I can sit and listen to for an hour! On the plus side, there isn't anything to distract you from the instructions – Robby doesn't try to entertain, he tries to teach and explain. And he does an outstanding job of it.
Whip Basics - Detailed Instructions
The instructions say everything you need to know, and never get lazy. I have no idea how many times he had to say, "the whip will crack it's self." , but the fact is, with a decent quality whip, and Robby's instructions... it really does! His methods have been tried, and he knows they work. Robert Amper knows how to teach, and what needs to be taught. I was very impressed with how he didn't let his ego or personality get in the way of the teaching at all – this DVD is pure whipcracking, step by step, piece by piece. The video editing and transitions add to the instructions, not distract from them.
One of my favorite things about Whip Basics is the whole first 2/3rds or so of the video – it's all devoted to the fundamentals. And I mean THE fundamentals. .
Most new crackers are going to want to watch the DVD all in one sitting, but it should really be watched in chunks, where you watch one crack, or part, over and over a few times, go out and crack, then maybe come back and watch that one part again. That way, you really learn. These concepts need a chance to sink in deep. And, with the instructions being so precise and step-by-step, you shouldn't miss anything.
Covering the Basics of Whip Cracking
Even the overhead crack instructions are easy, (a lot of beginners are apprehensive of this one for some reason) adding in a brilliant learning step where he talks to the cracker about taking their time and taking as many rotations as necessary. There are instructions for all the basics in this DVD and some nice little combos at the end.
Here are the basic cracks covered in Whip Basics Vol. 1:
Circus Crack
Underhand crack
Forward Throw
Overhead Crack
Sidearm Crack
Whip Basics Vol. 1 - The Final Word
The teaching, video editing, style and feel of Whip Basics Vol. 1 are top-notch. I'm especially happy with the way the video doesn't try and get wild or "extreme" at all - Robert Amper just teaches you each crack. Every one features high quality video that blend perfectly with the instructions, walking you through every aspect of what you are learning.
The only drawback I could find was the lack of enthusiasm in Robby's voice. But, the trade off is that his instructions are precisely worded and timed perfectly with what's happening. You don't get distracted with some comedian's personality - you will learn EXACTLY what you actually need to know. Plus, Robby comes across as very humble and likable, which makes taking instructions from him as an adult even easier and more comfortable!
So, if you are looking for an instructional Whipcracking DVD, I highly recommend you pick up a copy of Whip Basics. The fundamentals that Robert Amper presents are universal – any cracker of any level can improve by keeping these in mind. But primarily, if you've been cracking for a little while or are just starting out, the only thing better than getting the Whip Basics DVD would be flying to Germany and visiting Robert Amper in person.
"Just the Basics" perfectly sums up the DVD in 3 words, but in reality, it is so much more. Within minutes of watching Robby Amper , you know you are going to get your $20 worth.
Ron Allen
The Loxahatchee Whip Co.
www.nylonwhips.com
West Palm Beach Florida
There are several how-to-DVDs out there, but Whip Basics is honestly the best one I've seen. This video takes the time to really teach the basics of whips (basics that anyone of any level could really use), and the style is such that anyone, of any age should feel comfortable with it.
Whip Basics is simple and straight forward. You can watch the whole series of instructions in order, or go straight to the section or trick that you want to learn about. The DVD was designed by Robby Amper, an excellent instructor, and a man who clearly has a real love for the sport. Robby has a comfortable, easy going style in his instructions, though his voice got me a little tired at times. But, I did watch the entire DVD all the way through in one sitting, and there aren't many people who's voices I can sit and listen to for an hour! On the plus side, there isn't anything to distract you from the instructions – Robby doesn't try to entertain, he tries to teach and explain. And he does an outstanding job of it.
Whip Basics - Detailed Instructions
The instructions say everything you need to know, and never get lazy. I have no idea how many times he had to say, "the whip will crack it's self." , but the fact is, with a decent quality whip, and Robby's instructions... it really does! His methods have been tried, and he knows they work. Robert Amper knows how to teach, and what needs to be taught. I was very impressed with how he didn't let his ego or personality get in the way of the teaching at all – this DVD is pure whipcracking, step by step, piece by piece. The video editing and transitions add to the instructions, not distract from them.
One of my favorite things about Whip Basics is the whole first 2/3rds or so of the video – it's all devoted to the fundamentals. And I mean THE fundamentals. .
Most new crackers are going to want to watch the DVD all in one sitting, but it should really be watched in chunks, where you watch one crack, or part, over and over a few times, go out and crack, then maybe come back and watch that one part again. That way, you really learn. These concepts need a chance to sink in deep. And, with the instructions being so precise and step-by-step, you shouldn't miss anything.
Covering the Basics of Whip Cracking
Even the overhead crack instructions are easy, (a lot of beginners are apprehensive of this one for some reason) adding in a brilliant learning step where he talks to the cracker about taking their time and taking as many rotations as necessary. There are instructions for all the basics in this DVD and some nice little combos at the end.
Here are the basic cracks covered in Whip Basics Vol. 1:
Circus Crack
Underhand crack
Forward Throw
Overhead Crack
Sidearm Crack
Whip Basics Vol. 1 - The Final Word
The teaching, video editing, style and feel of Whip Basics Vol. 1 are top-notch. I'm especially happy with the way the video doesn't try and get wild or "extreme" at all - Robert Amper just teaches you each crack. Every one features high quality video that blend perfectly with the instructions, walking you through every aspect of what you are learning.
The only drawback I could find was the lack of enthusiasm in Robby's voice. But, the trade off is that his instructions are precisely worded and timed perfectly with what's happening. You don't get distracted with some comedian's personality - you will learn EXACTLY what you actually need to know. Plus, Robby comes across as very humble and likable, which makes taking instructions from him as an adult even easier and more comfortable!
So, if you are looking for an instructional Whipcracking DVD, I highly recommend you pick up a copy of Whip Basics. The fundamentals that Robert Amper presents are universal – any cracker of any level can improve by keeping these in mind. But primarily, if you've been cracking for a little while or are just starting out, the only thing better than getting the Whip Basics DVD would be flying to Germany and visiting Robert Amper in person.
"Just the Basics" perfectly sums up the DVD in 3 words, but in reality, it is so much more. Within minutes of watching Robby Amper , you know you are going to get your $20 worth.
Ron Allen
The Loxahatchee Whip Co.
www.nylonwhips.com
West Palm Beach Florida
