Videos for exercising can be an inexpensive and convenient way to work out, and you don't need to be overwhelmed by the hundreds of choices. You can pick a beneficial video that suits your style, goals and fitness level by keeping a few key concepts in mind. Exercise videos are available on videocassette and DVD at fitness, sports and general merchandise retailers. Others can be downloaded free from select fitness websites.
Types
Videos feature a wide range of exercise options, from cardio to weight training, from samba to walking. Choices include yoga, Pilates, high-impact and low-impact aerobics, dance, interval training, martial arts workouts and stretching. They can feature notable names, such as Richard Simmons and yoga's Rodney Yee, or instructors who wish they were notable. The videos generally include music and choreographed moves you follow along with the instructor. Certain videos, such as those for walking, can feature lessons you review before taking your workout outdoors.
What You Need
Different videos require different equipment. Certain videos, such as those that present yoga or walking, may only require a yoga mat or walking shoes, while others can call for more equipment. Specifications are usually noted in the video description, letting you know if you'll need a balance ball, resistance bands, dumb bells or other workout gear. You'll also need either a DVD player or video recorder to play the video as well as space in which to exercise.
How to Pick Them
Review your goal and the type of exercise you enjoy. For best results, especially if exercise videos are your sole means of working out, choose a video or several videos that give you full-body conditioning that includes stretching, cardio and strength training. You can start a collection of videos you enjoy. Test your potential enjoyment of a video by renting or borrowing it before you buy, if possible. This way you'll know whether the music --- or the instructor --- annoys you. The best videos start with a warmup, end with a cooldown and can include modifications if you are at a lower fitness level.
Considerations
While a big-name celebrity, such as Jane Fonda, might be a selling point, don't rely on that celebrity to instruct you in a workout unless she is a certified fitness instructor --- or at least works with one in the video. Don't believe the hype about instant results, either. Weight loss and enhanced fitness only result from regular exercise and healthy eating habits. Any video that promises a quick fix is probably a farce and might even be dangerous to your health, the American Council on Exercise says.
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