When looking to change up my workouts there are many options available, such as taking a new exercise class, using different equipment in the gym or even increasing my reps or weight. Additionally I also look to workout DVDs for inspiration and treated myself to two new yoga DVDs last week, which I’m looking forward to trying out when they finally arrive. They are great as many of us lead extremely busy lifestyles and just don’t have the time to exercise, but DVDs offer a kind of support that allows you to squeeze in a little something when you can at your own convenience. Here I have listed some of the things to consider when choosing a fitness DVD and some of the benefits that they can bring.
Connecting with the presenters personality
Using a workout DVD is like having a personal trainer in your very own home, so for me making sure that I connect with the personality of the instructor is very important. Basically, the instructor has to have a fab personality for me to actually enjoy the workout as we are going to be spending a lot of quality time together, so that time it has to be good. A workout DVD with a boring instructor is never a good thing and just results in the DVD being sent to the back of the DVD collection, or worst case scenario being resold on eBay.
What are you looking to achieve?
There are so many different types of workout DVDs from strength training, dance, yoga, Pilates, martial arts and aerobics. When choosing what type of workout DVD I want to buy I always ask the same question: what is it that I want to achieve? Right now I’m working on trying to to be as strong and healthy as I can be, but under more gentle and relaxed conditions. Although sometimes I just want to have fun and fancy just dancing around for a good workout.
Taking your workout with you
The best thing about a workout DVD is that you can do them anywhere. They are portable so you can take them on holiday and do them in your hotel room etc. All you really need is a DVD player and some motivation and then you are good to go for an awesome workout. On some occasions you may need extra equipment like a chair or weights but you can always improvise.
Another thing to consider is how much time do you have to actually workout. Some workout DVDs are designed especially people that do not have time to workout. They have sections of various time frames from 10 – 30 minutes constructed of different exercises aiming to give you the best workout in what ever time you have.
Being in control
You don’t need to be a gym member or a fitness instructor to get a good workout. DVDs are a cost effective way to stay fit and healthy! Also you are in control of the quality of the workout too. If you a section is too hard I either try it out at a lower intensity or fast forward to the next section until I feel strong enough to tackle it.
Reviews are also a great indicator on how good a DVD is. The yoga DVDs that I have just bought have brilliant reviews Word of mouth is a wondrous thing my friends!
Are you a fan of workout DVDs? Which ones are your current favourites?
How do you go about picking a workout DVD to buy?
I always look at the reviews but some people don’t leave serious ones so it can still be hard to tell. I like Jillian Michaels but I was looking at a yoga one and the reviews showed it was really advanced so I got something else instead. I do worry about doing really hardcore workouts as you have no-one around to check your form, so I do think you have to be careful when doing certain moves.
That’s such a good point. I do worry about doing the moves wrong and not reaping the full benefits of the workout.
Dvds are a tricky one and I think this post gives some good tips on how to chose your own as everyone likes different things. I like Jillian Michaels and am also a huge fan of POP pilates videos on youtube, but I’m not keen on many of the other ones I’ve tried.
It is hard to find one that is good, especially because you can’t try before you buy. I usually try and see if there is a snippet on YouTube, which normally helps.
I like workout dvd’s and think they are a great help especially to those that don’t like exercising public or are short on time.
I totally agree, I think that’s one of their main benefits.
I’m not a huge fan of workout DVDs. I got one of Jillian Michaels and did it once :-S I did enjoy it but I’m just not motivated to do it in my living room. I like to be part of a class with other people. Otherwise I’ll just get distracted. But I can definitely see the positives for people who don’t like to be in a class scenario or just don’t have time to go to the gym.
I guess they are not for everyone. It’s great that you know what works for you.
I don’t really have any workout dvds, but I’ve done some that have been put online before. In fact I did 8 weeks of Insanity from finding the videos online. I like Jillian Michaels ones.
Jillian Michaels is one of the best, her workouts can be tough!
I love workout DVDs. To be honest, at the moment blogilates and online workouts suit me best as many are just 10minutes long so I don’t have to commit to a big whack of time in one but can build them up around my day and choose exactly where I want to workout.
Blogilates is great isn’t it. I love that I can get a good workout at home when I can’t make it to the gym.