What To Look For
Moms are always on the go, packing lunches, lifting groceries and running after little ones. All these burn calories, but if you want to shed weight and build muscle, you need a little more. When you choose a workout DVD, decide what kind of workout you want. Cardio burns calories and reduces fat, while resistance and weight training build strength and lean muscle. Before starting any new exercise regimen, talk to your doctor.
Common Pitfalls
Don't choose a fitness DVD that is too ambitious, either in terms of the time it takes or the exercises involved, because you probably will not keep it up. Look for workout routines that offer a full workout in 20- or 30-minute segments. Working out for as little as 30 minutes a day three to four times a week can reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Where To Buy
Retail stores such as Walmart, Target and Best Buy offer a variety of fitness DVDs. You also can buy DVDs online. If you want to try a few out before you commit, see if you can get some workout DVDs from your local library.
Cost
Most fitness DVDs cost less than $30. You often can find them on sale, especially after the holidays or during the summer.
Comparison Shopping
In addition to fitness DVDs that anyone can use, there are some fitness DVDs specifically for moms. For example, "Lindsay Brin's Core Fitness for Moms" teaches moms to use the abdominal muscles, with a focus on pelvic floor and transverse abdominals. Many of the abdominal exercises are done standing, not lying down. In her "Post-Pregnancy Workout," celebrity trainer Tracy Anderson shares a workout she developed after her own pregnancy. Her routine incorporates light weight training and Pilates-inspired moves.
Insider Tips
Start early. Working out during pregnancy can help reduce back pain, maintain good blood pressure and relieve stress. Building strength in your core, as well as in your arms and legs, helps your overall posture and stability, making carrying a baby a bit easier. Maintaining muscle tone also helps your body recover from delivery.
