The Christmas Guide to Workout DVDs
Christmas morning. You tear off the wrapping paper to reveal the newest workout DVD, the front cover bearing the lean, leotard-clad body of an ex-soap star or TV presenter with blow-dried hair and veneers. Of course, every workout DVD worth its salt boasts a ‘before’ shot showing just how pale and miserable the celebrity was before she shed the baby-weight (and discovered fake tan) – to reassure you that they, too, are Real Women. The promises are tempting, like the half-empty box of Celebrations at your side. Hard to believe that all the secrets of a coveted dress size are contained within one shiny disc!
From January 1st you diligently perform the routines, spurred on by the defined abs of the Real Woman on screen – until approximately January 4th work kicks back in. As for the DVD, that turns up in the supermarket bargain bin the following year.
It’s okay. Maybe you guys just weren’t compatible. Don’t write off the workout DVD for good; you may just need to choose a better match – a workout that will pick you back up on low-motivation days yet challenge you on pumped-up days. Workout DVDs are a great fitness solution for people that don’t have time to hit the gym, or lack the self-confidence to exercise in front of other people. All you need is a space in front of your TV (legwarmers optional). Many DVDs are broken down into 30-minute or even 10-minute routines so you can fit them into even the busiest day.
But with so many workout DVDs on offer, how do you choose the one for you? Bafflingly titled, are you looking for a butt boot camp, bulge buster or fitness fusion?
Best for Fun: Zumba
The current craze may lead you to assume that Zumba is a recent invention, but it was actually invented in the 90s by Colombian fitness instructor Alberto ‘Beto’ Perez, who was looking to inject life into his studios. This dance-inspired workout is set to lively Latin and African rhythms, a welcome change from the repetitive techno music of the standard workout DVD. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never salsaed in your life; most Zumba routines repeat just four to six simple movements per song. Far from becoming repetitive, this enables you to really get stuck in to the routine without worrying about memorizing complicated steps. Disclaimer: if you don’t fancy shaking your bum, this may not be for you. But if you find the gym boring and are looking for a workout DVD that will make you laugh while you tone up and burn calories, look no further than Beto Perez’ original ‘Zumba Fitness’.
Best for Breaking a Sweat: Military-Style Bootcamp
If you’ve got a no-nonsense approach to fitness, put yourself through a military-style boot camp DVD and leave those bingo wings shaking in their boots. No spandex in sight here; let your instructor guide you through army drills, providing no-frills cardio, strength and endurance training that delivers real results. If you’re a disciplined person and don’t shy away from challenging exercises (the plank, anyone?) then about face and quick march to the ‘Back to Basics Fitness Program’.
Best for Beating Stress: Boxercise
We’ve all read that exercise is a great form of stress relief, but boxercise takes this to a whole new level. Bad day? Punch away your angst with this energetic blend of boxing and aerobics, guaranteed you diligently perform the routines, spurred on by the defined abs of the Real, when enthusiasm fades and life/the school run/to break a sweat and strengthen and tone your upper body. For a full-body workout you may want to incorporate the legs with kickboxing instead – just make sure you have enough space to perform your roundhouse kicks without taking out a lamp or family member. You can count on Britain’s David Haye for a professional ‘Box and Tone’ workout suitable for everybody, from beginners to veterans of the ring.
Best for… Relaxation
Strength and flexibility are two sides of the fitness coin. With a focus on stretching and breathing exercises, Yoga is a great way to complement your workout routine. Don’t be fooled by its gentle appearance; while relaxing, the strength and balance achieved through Yoga gives gym equipment a serious run for its money! If you want something a little more strenuous, try Pilates. A favorite of Jennifer Aniston, Pilates (called Contrology by its German inventor, Joseph Pilates) is designed to strengthen the core whilst improving flexibility and strengthening the limbs. For encouraging instruction and short, flowing routines, try 10 Minute Solution Pilates.
Conclusion
By asking yourself what you really want from a workout DVD, you can make this the year that you actually find a routine you enjoy – and will stick to. Focus on your personal fitness goals, whether that is to lose a few pounds and keep them off, build muscle, tone up a specific body part or to improve your flexibility. It’s not too late to put one of these on your Christmas list!
About the author
Vikki is a freelance writer and self-confessed fitness nut that works alongside Simply Gym. When it comes to workouts, she’s tried them all, from martial arts to rock climbing and surfing. She is currently working her way up to running a half marathon. Her current fitness goal is to take up Yoga, so she can treat her muscles to a good stretch after pounding the tarmac!
Feel free to follow us, however you like: Google+, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram