For the novice fitness enthusiast, concerned about being embarrassed by his performance in the gym, one popular approach is a home workout with exercise videos. Home workout DVDs are an effective and low-cost way to introduce yourself to new exercise and fitness methods without pressure from peer perceptions. There are several videos that can be labeled "the best" in whatever category of exercise DVD you are looking for, based on various factors.
Cardio Workout DVDs
Home exercise videos for the common consumer got their start through old-time legends like Jack LaLanne. The first generally popular and well-known exercise videos though were from Jane Fonda. These were effective cardiovascular training programs, although they featured silly catchphrases and aerobics costumes that were rather noteworthy, even at the time.
Today, the list of cardio-centric workout DVDs available are led by several that meet the goals of the originals, but utilize the latest cutting-edge exercise science along with great instructional quality and modern videography.
"Fat-Burning Kickboxing Workout for Dummies" is one of the best for novices. As fitness writer Meredith Francis Meyers pointed out in an article in the January 2007 issue of "Fitness" magazine, entitled "10 Best Workout DVDs," this video is great for beginners. "Even if you've never thrown a jab, or simulated a side kick," the author points out, "instructor Keli Roberts shows you how..." For the individual who chooses to workout at home and wants a solid workout instructional DVD, while still getting a great workout, this video tops the list.
Yoga Workout DVDs
Susan J. Owens, yoga instructor and lifeskills writer, describes "Yoga Shakti" as the one yoga video to have. "If you want to invest in only one Yoga DVD, this is the one," Susan says. "Yoga Shakti" was filmed starring the internationally renowned yogi Shiva Rea. Featuring four complete workouts, each of which is enhanced by modifications for beginner, intermediate and advanced yoga practitioners, this video was filmed on location in India and the Maldive Islands. The video features alluring Indian ethnic music, which can lead to a deeper mental connection with the exercises.
Pilates Workout DVDs
Developed in the 1930s by Joseph Pilates for the rehabilitation of soldiers wounded in WWI, Pilates is currently one of the most popular exercise systems in the country, and available in many gyms and Pilates-specific studios as well.
Pilates exercises originated to be used with equipment Pilates developed, called the "Reformer." His floor exercises, however, require nothing more than a mat. Looking much like yoga, Pilates floor exercises serve many of the same functions. Good Pilates-based workout DVDs generally focus on these floor exercises.
According to certified Pilates instructor Zoe Anderson, the best Pilates DVD for beginners is "Pilates Workout for Dummies with Michelle Dozois." This video offers clear, concise instruction for novices, while focusing on 18 basic movements, to avoid overwhelming the novice.
For more intermediate and advanced Pilates practitioners, Zoe recommends "STOTT Pilates Intermediate Matwork" with Moira Merrithew. Citing it's clear instruction and instructional value, instead of being simply a "follow-along workout," Zoe says this video "takes first place..." among Pilates videos overall.
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