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Do Exercise Videos Really Work?

You know you need to exercise, but the thought of donning sweats and running to the local gym seems more like a nightmare than a way to get fit. After all, how can you possibly work out with all those lean bodies looking at you! Not to mention the hefty cost of many gym memberships, especially if you get locked into a contract. What happens when you decide it’s not for you after a month? Oh…and let’s not forget the expense of fashionable workout clothes so you can “look good” while you’re sweating!

These are sound reasons for choosing to “sweat to the oldies” at home, in front of your own television, at your own pace, without having to endure uncomfortable feelings in the gym! But do home workout videos actually work? Can you lose weight, tone, and decrease your risk for all types of disease in your own home?

Here are some tips to make home workouts work for you:

• Decide to make time to exercise – first thing in the morning will jump start your metabolism and energize your day.

• Pick a video that’s fun! Whatever it is, enjoy it and laugh while you’re doing it. Kick boxing and Tai Bo are quite popular these days.

• Change it up! Some videos have different routines on them, such as fat-burning, cardio, toning, Pilates/yoga. Doing the same routine day in and day out gets boring fast.

• Don’t worry about “shadowing” the video instructor. The point here is to get your heart rate up, not to be the best “imitator” in the class. No one is watching you and you’re not getting a grade.

Before you buy a video, check the level of difficulty for your abilities. Find out if you need any exercise equipment. Make sure the instructor is certified; celebrities are not necessarily exercise gurus. Know the length of time for each workout so you can effectively manage your exercise routine, without interfering with other responsibilities.

All in all – exercise videos are what you make of them. They are far better than sitting all day and doing nothing. And, if it’s a tad bit cold outside – they might just help you warm up!