Treadmill walking workout DVDs can spruce up your usual ho-hum walking workout to make it more enjoyable and effective. Even if your usual routine is not dull, workout DVDs can add variety that uses muscle groups you might usually ignore or use the same muscle groups in different ways, enhancing your calorie burn and overall fitness.
What They Do
Walking workout videos jazz up your treadmill routine by varying the speed, incline, arm and leg movements throughout your walk. Treadmill DVDs can use equipment, such as a set of light dumbbells, to give your upper body a workout. Others need no equipment other than your treadmill and a stable, comfortable pair of walking shoes. Many walking workout DVDs feature a workout you follow with an instructor, although others are simply music set to panoramic views of enticing scenery, such as the Swiss Alps, the Rocky Mountains and the forests and shores of Hawaii.
Exercise Examples
Workouts that rely on the treadmill alone can include walking up and down hills by changing the incline, short bursts of high-intensity activity with an increased speed and incline and different types of walking. The routine could call for lunges or squats while you walk, walking backwards or walking only on your heels or toes. Routines that use light dumbbells generally feature upper-body strength-training exercises such as biceps curls and shoulder presses.
How to Pick Them
Several treadmill walking workout DVDs are available from fitness, sports and general merchandise retailers. Look for one that fits your fitness level and overall goals. If you're looking to tone your arms while you tone your legs, for example, opt for a workout that uses a lot of arm movements or small weights. DVDs starring a certified fitness instructor are your best bet, and qualifications are generally in the product description. If possible, rent or borrow a walking DVD before buying it to make sure it's a workout and instructor you'll enjoy.
Considerations
For the safest workout, watch the entire DVD workout at least once before you attempt it on moving treadmill belt. Also make sure you're emergency key is in place and ready in the event you should trip, fall or otherwise lose your balance. You can always modify the DVD workout with a slower pace, lower incline or less strenuous arm or leg movements if you find yourself struggling. Likewise, you can amp up the speed and incline if the workout seems too slow for you.
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