The Gym Alternative: Home Workout Videos

I have spent several posts talking about going to the gym, picking the right gym, what belongs in your gym bag, etc. I would be remiss not to address those of you that cannot, for any number of reasons, GO to a gym. There is the obvious solution of creating a home gym, but that requires a considerable investment in most cases. So what are the other options? Home Workout Videos! A few things to keep in mind when it comes to workout video: Find videos with several different workouts on the same video. And be clear on whether or not exercise equipment is needed to participate in the workout (ie. Hand weights , stretch bands, exercise balls, etc.)

Why Video?

Going to an aerobic fitness class is one of the best ways to stay in shape and get a good full body workout, not to mention that they can be a lot of fun!! Well, most workout videos are essentially an aerobics class in your living room. You can get the same fitness benefits of going a class, from doing a video in your home. You also are not limited by the gym’s schedule. You can do the class you want at the time that works for you. If your only time to exercise is nap time, all you have to do is pop in the video and go. If you have to wait for everyone to be in bed (early morning or late at night), going to the gym is just not an option. Videos remove the need for child care while exercising. Yes, your children will have to be otherwise engaged but you don’t have to leave the house.

Variety in Class Choice

No matter the size or scale of your local gym, they can only offer so many different classes. They are limited by space, time in the day and trained instructors. With videos, you open an entire library worth of class choice. You can also feel free to try something out (say Aerobic Salsa Dancing) in the privacy of your own home, without 15 other sets of eyes on you. Additionally, you can change it up often, but getting different videos.

Creating Your Own Exercise Library

Here are some ideas for increasing your video library without having to spend a fortune on new videos. All of these ideas let you “try before you buy” so that you are not stuck with a workout you don’t really like, and therefore are not likely to do:

1. Start a sharing program with your friends. You can each rotate videos for use on a weekly, or monthly basis. This way you all get access to more videos, without having to purchase a bunch of videos.
2. Utilize the videos your Public Library offers. You may not be aware that your public library most likely has a video rental section that is probably included in your membership already. This is the best way to get a variety of videos. You can rent one, keep and use it for the duration of your borrowing period, then bring it back and switch to something new.
3. Join Netflix or Blockbuster Total Access. This sends DVDs directly to your home on regular intervals. You pick how many at a time as well as how many each month (with varying fees). And both have a vast selection of exercise videos.
4. Check with your medical group or hospital. Many offices have a health programs that includes a borrowing library of workout videos. They are also often free or very inexpensive.

Some of My Favorite Videos

1. Leslie Sansone – she focuses on Walking off the Pounds and has a whole series of videos, each with several different workouts on the same video (Purchase Leslie Sansone 5 Day Slim Down here)
2. Jillian Michaels – she provides an intense workout for all levels. (Purchase The Biggest Loser: The Workout – Last Chance Workout here)
3. The Ten Minute Solution Series – this is a great set of workouts for those of you that have time fitting exercising into your daily schedule. (Purchase 10 minute Solution: Blast off Belly Fat Here)