Workout DVD Suggestions

Which Are The Best BANG For Your Buck?

A series of different workout DVDs provide flexibility in your exercise routine.

This page outlines the most used fitness DVDs in my home workout library. I like a lot of variety because I'm quickly bored with the same routine, no matter how fun or effective it is.

These 6 options give me a wide spectrum of choices to keep things interesting and help me maintain my motivation to get 'er done!...

My Favorites

• Turbo Jam
• Tae Bo
• Carmen Electra's Striptease
• Cardio Hip Hop
• 20 Minute Yoga
• Lift Weights to Lose Weight

 

Turbo Jam

This is my new favorite workout DVD. The kickboxing-based movements blast calories more effectively than running, circuit training, Pilates, etc. A recent University study reports that you can burn over 700 calories in a 45 minute workout!

A great workout that gives you the option of doing cardio, strength training or an intense 2-part ab routine. This high energy combination of cardio and sculpting exercises keep you motivated and having fun, which is SO important for maintaining your desire to put that DVD in and get moving.

One of the features that sets this series apart is the "Learn & Burn" segment. Trainer, Chalene Johnson takes new users through each of the movements performed throughout the Turbo Jam workouts. You learn how to do each element properly to get maximum effectiveness out of each exercise.


 

Tae Bo

Tae Bo Fat Blasting 2-Pack (DVD)

Yikes... Billy Blanks is intense! Which is a good thing in a trainer. He's serious about the workout and both intimidating and encouraging at the same time.

Using the resistance bands adds a strength training component to this workout DVD. Two birds with one stone! Always a good thing at workout time.

However, not all resistance bands are created equal. The ones used in the videos look great and I wish I'd been able to find a set of those. I bought the "Elite Billy Bands" off of Billy Blanks' site, and frankly wouldn't recommend them. The handles are poorly designed and they rub against wrists, causing bruises and discomfort.


 

Carmen Electra's Striptease Collection

For something on the naughty side, Carmen Electra's Striptease workout is fun and effective. You'd be surprised how many muscles are targeted while you're "exercising" your inner sensuality.

Because you do need a certain amount of stamina and muscle control in order to perform the movements, there is a companion workout featuring trainer Michael Carson.

The exercises are challenging, designed to improve flexibility and cardiovascular health while developing the necessary strength to do your "groove thang."


 

Quick Fix Cardio Hip Hop

This one is a great beginner workout DVD. It's lower intensity, but gets you moving and feeling more fit. The workouts are short and sweet... and fun!

It can take a few times to get the movements down, but once you've got the hang of a routine, it feels fantastic to hip hop your way to a fitter you. I feel like I'm groovin' in a music video when I do this one.


 

Sara Ivanhoe's 20 Min Yoga Makeover

This series contains 5 different yoga workouts, each geared toward a different fitness outcome. They make a great addition to your cardio or strength workout, or can be done on their own on rest days, or days when you have less time but still want to do something for your body.

Sarah Ivanhoe has a peaceful demeanor and gives great instruction on how to attain the correct body position for the postures. She guides you on how to incorporate the breathing, which is an essential element for an effective yoga practice. And she offers encouragement throughout, which I'm always grateful for when I'm struggling with one of the more challenging postures.


 

Kathy Smith's Lift Weights to Lose Weight

These 20 minute strength training segments allow you to work upper body, lower body, or both on any given day. And there's an ab workout on each DVD.

Adding muscle to your body has so many benefits (i.e., raises metabolism, improves posture, develops tone and shape, increases bone density). Plus it feels great to be strong! To feel those muscles under your skin. It's worth the burn, which is important to remember when you're in the middle of it.

Kathy Smith provides critical instruction on using the proper form during each exercise. The slightest adjustment in alignment can take an exercise from "what the..." to "oh yeah!"

These routines in this strength training workout DVD require minimal equipment. Some hand weights, a chair, a pillow and/or weight bench (I use my coffee table padded with a blanket for some of the exercises instead of a weight bench).