Using workout videos or DVDs to get into shape allows you to reach your personal fitness goals in the privacy of your own home. Excellent workout videos are available, geared toward the needs of fitness novices or beginners. The main categories of fitness videos or DVDs include cardio/aerobics, combination (cardio and strength training), and strength training and toning.
Cardio/Aerobics
Gay Gasper leads "Fat Burning Workout for Dummies." It's a solid cardio workout using just 10 classic aerobic combinations, such as grapevines. You can learn and practice fundamental aerobics routines while burning calories. Gasper demonstrates each movement, and you can view subtle variations for added interest. On-screen insets show tips and provide suggestions.
The inventor of step aerobics and IDEA instructor of the year leads "Gin Miller's Everybody Steps." This workout is the perfect introduction to step workouts as well as a solid fat-buring cardio routine. The video has six segments, which allow you to advance at your own pace and stop when you want. The patterns are simple and easy to learn.
Combination
The trainer from the TV show "The Biggest Loser" leads "Jillian Michaels' Workout for Beginners," a two-DVD set. It features an easy-to-follow series of circuits alternating between fat-burning aerobics and muscle-firming toning. Jillian offers technique tips plus bootcamp-style encouragement. The "Frontside" DVD works the muscles in the front of your body, while "Backside" targets the back of your body.
"Leslie Sansone's Walk & Firm with Intervals" is an interval program that includes a resistance band. Leslie alternates short segments of aerobics and toning to keep your heart rate elevated while you tone and sculpt your upper and lower body. The cardio sections are easy-to-follow, marching-style combinations. The toning intervals include classics such as squats, lunges, bicep curls and rows.
Strength Training and Toning
"Balletone with Jody Hoegstedt" is a unique workout that introduces you to ballet toning and enables you to develop a lean dancer's body. It's a graceful workout that uses no fancy equipment. The classic standing barre work tones your muscles and helps you improve your balance. After the barre work, you'll progress to a solid Pilates mat-work routine.
"Tamilee Webb's I Want That Body" includes three targeted workouts on one DVD. Each workout has two separate segments. The first segment uses easier routines; the second is more challenging. You'll need light dumbbells. Mixed standing and floor-work classics will tone and ultimately exhaust every major muscle in your body.
References
- "National Academy of Sports Medicine Essentials of Personal Fitness Training, 3rd ed"; Michael Clark, Scott Lucett and Rodney Corn; 2008
- Collage Video: Exercise Videos and Reviews
- "Fitness Magazine"; Top 10 Workout DVDs; Feb. 2008
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