Exercise DVDs are a great way to get fit if there is not a gym nearby, if you do not want to spend a ton on equipment or your schedule is hectic and you need to fit in exercise where it can go. I recommend that every girl have some workout DVDs, just so there is something you can do at home. Here are reviews of five sets of very popular workout DVDs that tell you a time commitment, equipment needed, any extras and the results of the program.
P90X
This is a fairly expensive DVD set with a diet plan and supplements, so it is a large commitment up front. This set requires a pull-up bar and free weights as well as the DVDs. This set combines a lot of different types of workouts, such as, yoga, plyometrics, weight lifting, floor exercises and kickboxing to keep fit. The DVD set comes with a three-phase nutrition plan designed to go with the DVDs. There is also an online support group and an extra DVD included that discusses how to stay on track. The fitness regimen lasts for 90 days. If you have not exercised in a while, there is also a Power 90 series of DVDs that are better for people who are out of shape. If you want to slim down and tone, this DVD set is great.
Insanity
This is also a DVD set and diet plan, so be sure that you are committed when you buy. This DVD set has a lot of plyometrics (jump training), so avoid it if your knees, shins, ankles or feet cannot handle that kind of impact (consult your doctor to check). There is an online support group to give you tips and help you stay on track. There are a few shorter workouts in the mix, but most are 40 minutes to an hour, so you need to set aside an hour (plus shower time; you will be sweaty) every single day. Exercise equipment is not required for the DVDs and the workout schedule goes for 60 days. This DVD set will accomplish many of the same goals as P90X.
Jillian Michaels
Jillian Michaels loves her reputation as TV’s toughest trainer, but it is a very motivating kind of tough. She has a wide variety of DVDs (I have done Cardio Kickbox, 6-Week Six Pack, 30-Day Shred and Yoga Meltdown). There is a wide variety to choose from and most are 20-30 minutes, which is perfect. You usually need some hand weights and a mat for these DVDs (some might require other equipment), which means you can up the intensity by adding ankle weights or upping the hand weights. You probably will not build serious muscle, but can get toned (it will take more time) and have some good cardio from these DVDs. There are also diet plans available online to go with the DVDs.
Hip-Hop Abs
These DVDs are from the same person who created Insanity, Shaun T. They are intense, but not as intense as the Insanity DVDs. There are more dance moves incorporated into the cardio workout and there is no equipment required. Some of the workouts are shorter, which makes them easier to fit into your schedule, but they do not come with the same nutrition plan. There is a 30-day workout calendar to schedule workouts. You will build some legs and abs, but probably will need an upper-body routine as well.
Richard Simmons
These are great DVDs for when you do not feel motivated or are sick. They are not very tough, so you can use them to start yourself out or as an easy workout when you have a cold. It is mainly cardio to keep extra weight off and there is no equipment required. I think my favorite thing about these DVDs is that you cannot help but be happy when you are watching Richard Simmons; he is infectious. The set is also pretty cheap, so they are good to have around. If you want to up the ante on these workouts, buy some wrist weights and ankle weights.
I cannot review every DVD, so if you have a workout DVD that I have not mentioned, please leave a quick review in the comments and help your Pageant Planet sisters out!
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I am a law student in Washington, DC who has competed in the Miss America system for several years.
I highly recommend Brazilian Butt Lift and Rockin Body. Rockin Body is also by Shaun T. They are great all around workouts that aren’t as long as Insanity. Rockin Body is fun and will get you up working out and SWEATING. Brazilian Butt Lift is also another good one. I do a combo of Rockin Body, Brazilian Butt Lift and Insanity and see amazing results!!