When darkness falls by 5 pm and the winter chill reaches below zero temps, the struggle to head outside for a run, or even getting to the gym, could quickly become a losing battle. But you needn’t have a daily standoff between the frigid season and your ability to keep up your workout routine. Stay fit within your home’s own warmth by taking advantage of exercise videos. These days there’s an array of workout DVDs, from aerobic to yoga, to choose from depending upon your preference and fitness level. Whether you want to build muscle, burn fat, or beat stress, the right fitness video for you is out there. We’ve compiled a sampling of fitness videos and guidelines to inspire you to get started.
Beginning Your Search
The best place to start searching for the right exercise video for you is online. Web sites like collagevideo.com offer detailed descriptions and ratings of fitness videos so you can begin to get an idea of the kind of workout offered and the instructor. Look for videos fronted by verified instructors who have solid fitness credentials to ensure your workout will be effective and safe. As you begin your search for the compatible fitness video consider your fitness level – beginner, intermediate, or advanced – and what type of exercising will really motivate you. Also keep in mind these features when choosing a video:
- If you’re new to this, will you need detailed instructions throughout the workout?
- Do you prefer an instructor who teaches alone or with a class involved?
- Do you prefer a high-energy environment or a serene one?
- Is fitness equipment needed to complete the video workout, like a stability ball or weights?
- Do you have enough space in your home for the workout?
- Do you prefer having warm-up and cool-down segments included?
Starting the Exercise Video
Once you’ve decided on a specific video, prepare your environment by clearing away any nearby obstacles and making sure there aren’t any distractions. Set your space with the equipment you might need, like weights, a stability ball, exercise bands, and mat. Be sure to wear appropriate exercise attire, and have water nearby. Preview the workout, gauging your level of intensity throughout, and don’t overexert yourself. Don’t worry about keeping up the first couple of times. Lastly, be consistent with the time you exercise, as this will help you to stay committed.
Some Fitness Videos to Try:
Best for: Burning Fat
Highly energetic and filled with combinations nearly anyone can tackle, this step chorographic video is great for burning calories and keeping you moving and motivated.
Best for: Achieving Inner Calm
IntenSati Intention and Power: A High Energy Workout for Body, Mind & Soul
Emphasizing the strong connection between one’s mind and body, this video blends dance, martial arts, fitness, and yoga moves with positive affirmation chants.
Best for: Fun, Dance-y Aerobics
Dance Off the Inches: Fat Burning Jam
Composed of 10 simple dance steps, this high-energy routine helps to burn fat and boost cardio fitness.
Best for: Total-Body Sculpting
Get Ripped: Slim & Lean with Jari Love
Fifteen quick but intensive segments of squats, lunges, and more that incorporates barbell and dumbbell exercises helping you to build strength and definition.
Best for: Yoga in a Hurry
Following this video just 10 minutes five times a week helps you to master a variety of yoga poses and techniques designed to encourage greater flexibility, less tension and anxiety, and more energy.
Best for: Stronger Abs
10 Minute Solution: Blast off Belly Fat with Suzanne Bowen
This video offers five different 10-minute ab-strengthening routines that target your entire torso, including a Pilates-inspired segment and exercises to flatten your middle.
Best for: Beginning Exercisers
The “For Dummies” series
Any of the “Dummies” series (Shaping up with Weights for Dummies, Pilates for Weight Loss for Dummies, Basic Yoga for Dummies) helps to introduce you to new exercising by explaining the workout clearly, showing the exercise from various angles, and by instructing slowly.
While this is only a sample of fitness videos to check out, always consider your personal fitness level and choice of exercise before researching videos to try. From aerobic to strength training to flexibility, the gamut of fitness videos out there assures one thing: you’ll definitely have a wide variety from which to choose, so use that to your fitness advantage.
