(Reprint with permission from www.exerciseradio.com)
As a 20 year fitness veteran and contributor to exerciseradio.com it is my privilege to present the first annual DVD awards.
At the top of my list is Cathe Freidrich’s Drill Max; an INTENSE athletic circuit workout that exudes a hybrid of agility training, boot camp conditioning, and functional fitness. Cathe never fails to deliver and has out done herself with this one!!! There is something for everyone in this workout. You do need a lot of equipment, but it’s still cheaper than buying a gym membership. This workout is super challenging and truly I can not find the most appropriate accolades for her. Not for the weak at heart or those who don’t appreciate a wicked ‘butt kicking”. Some of my favorite moves include inverted bomb diver push ups into the core push-ups which are push ups with a bonus. While not a fan in high school (20 years ago, AGGGG!), I loved the football drill sequence followed by the squat thrust, tuck, jump.
Next on the list…, As Seen On TV!
The Beach Body brand includes P90X, Turbo Jam, and Yoga Booty Ballet. What made both the P90X and the Turbo Jam DVDs motivating is that each DVD is chaptered with headings for the upcoming segment and has a countdown clock. I loved knowing how much time was left.
First choice is the Tony Horton's P90X series. It’s like having your own personal trainer. His unique (and sometimes goofy—which I liked) training style will keep you motivated every step of the way. Each workout targets specific areas so you get maximum body sculpting and muscle definition. The P90X system is comprised of 13 DVDs and ALL the workouts are fun, and effective. I liked Core Synergistics which includes moves like the prison cell push-up, the low lateral skaters and the Dreya roll, named after one of his friends and creator of the move.
Next was The Turbo Jam series by Chalene Johnson. Each of her DVDs are packed with calorie-blasting kickboxing, and body sculpting moves. My favorites included the Turbo Jam Total Body Blast and the Turbo Jam Kickin’ Core. Both DVDs use the Stability Ball which is my favorite piece of equipment. In Total Body Blast you alternate cardio drills with body sculpting moves. The moves I liked most are the squat jumps with the ball between the legs and the figure 8's to the curtsy lunge. In fact I have incorporated these moves into my own classes at Equinox in Roslyn Long Island. (OK, Shameless plug!)
Chalene has created the "Elite 11", her own signature moves which are easy to learn. I liked the “Turbo Tuck”, “Zig Zag” and the “Wheel” From the moment I started the DVD to the end, I really enjoyed myself. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious and you'll immediately understand the powerful role of music. The music rocks, the choreography is fun yet challenging.
And last but not least, Yoga Booty Ballet AM Latte created by Gillian Marloth and Teigh McDonough is a dynamic fusion of yoga, booty sculpting, and dance that will make you feel strong, confident, and brings our your inner Goddess! Gillian and Teigh trade off instruction, form tips, with lots of encouragement and positive thoughts.
AM Latte is designed as a "first thing in the morning" routine AM Latte which incorporates a short “wake-up” routine, low-impact aerobics, lower body strength work and yoga sun salutations, and a closing meditation.
I enjoyed the body/mind aspect of this DVD. It starts with what is called a "sat nam" (truth is reality) meditation followed by a quieter "sa ta na ma" meditation for balance follows and finishes with brisk pats and taps all over the body, a mudra for guidance and acceptance of wisdom, and setting an intention.
The short low-impact section is not-too-intense and has some cute steps like drink a latte, brush your hair, floss your teeth, and driving off to work. I loved the YBB-style strength work, including standing side leg lifts with arms in ballet positions (which also strengthens the upper body and challenges balance), one-legged squats, and plies.
Honorable Mentions
Ellen Barrett and Beth Shaw.
Beth is a wonderful instructor and the YogaFit Power is the ultimate in mind/body that leaves you feeling both strong and “blissed”. It is as described, yoga for real people. That would be ME!! As someone who is yoga challenged I like Beth’s motivating cues as reminds you to listen to your body and go at your own pace. This workout is hard core and you will sweat!
Ellen is also a great instructor -- and Super Slim Down Pilates Yoga Blend a variety of yoga poses and Pilates mat exercises. The workout is designed to keep you moving smoothly through standing yoga poses, and moves to the floor for a blend of yoga poses and Pilates exercises. Whether you're a yoga fan that’s new to Pilates, or a Pilates fan who's new to yoga, this blended workout is for you.
Exercise DVDs are a great alternative to the costly gym memberships or bulky home equipment. All the equipment you need can be found in most sporting good stores or online. Of course, as is the case with any exercise regimen, you'll also need the discipline to stick with it. But once you start feeling and seeing results, that should take care of itself.