The best aerobic workout videos include circuit or interval training and the option to do the workouts at different levels, and each has more than one workout routine on each DVD, according to Kathy Stevens, the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America, or AFAA, educational director. In her role with the Sherman Oaks, California-based AFAA, Stevens assists in the development and production of new fitness products, programs and workshops.
Jillian Michaels: Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism
Jillian Michaels of "The Biggest Loser" is more than a reality TV star. She is certified by the AFAA and National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association. This 2008 DVD, which features floor aerobic and toning intervals, is rated intermediate/advanced by Collage Videos, but Michaels gives beginners options to lighten up the workouts. Michaels has a rep as a boot-camp style instructor. Yes, she is one tough cookie, but she offers encouragement, too, in this 40-minute circuit workout.
Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred
This 2007 video offers interval training at its best. The aerobic impact level is rated as advanced, according to Collage Videos. The DVD has three 27-minute workouts: intermediate, intermediate/advanced and advanced, with exercisers moving up as they complete a level. Michaels uses her standard three-two-one strength/cardio/ab training circuit but offers options for easier exercises. You need three- to five-pound dumbbells for this DVD.
Denise Austin: 3-Week Boot Camp
Denise Austin: 3-Week Boot Camp, a 2009 video, features two interval cardio/strength training workouts. One is 20 minutes; the other is 22. There is a bonus seven-minute ab workout. A popular instructor, Austen's perky style seems better fit for an older crowd. She has sold more than 20 million exercise videos; she was inducted into the Video Hall of Fame in 2003. You need two- to five-pound dumbbells for this DVD.
Wii Fit Plus
Wii Fit Plus, released in 2009, appeals to audiences of all ages and is just plain fun. You need the balance board to get the full experience. The aerobic exercises include jogging, boxing, hula hoop and step workouts. The yoga section is easy to follow for beginners, as is the strength training portion. The balance exercises, such as tightrope walking, are tricky. Wii Fit was the original offering, and this newer version offers even more choices, like skateboarding, cycling and Kung Fu. Overall you have 60 activities and exercises from which to choose, according to the publisher. You need a Wii Console to join this workout craze.
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