How to Choose a Workout Video

Whether you're a beginner to exercise or a fitness buff, you may know that workout videos and DVDs provide a great way for you to exercise in your home. If you can't make it to the gym and it's too cold to exercise outside, you may find that a workout video fulfills your daily exercise needs. However, it's important to make sure that you choose the right workout video for you, since they tend to vary widely.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Video store or library

1. Decide on a workout component. Decide if you want a cardio workout, a strength training workout or a flexibility workout. Some workout videos combine all three of these components into one. Determine which is best for your exercise needs.
2. Choose a particular exercise. There's an assortment of workouts available. For example, if you're seeking a cardio workout video, you could choose between hip-hop dance, kickboxing, step aerobics and others. If you're looking for a flexibility video, you might choose between yoga, Pilates and regular stretching. Find an exercise that appeals to you.
3. Determine your skill level. Choose a skill level based on your expertise and experience with that type of workout. If you regularly practice martial arts, for example, you can probably choose an intermediate or advanced kickboxing workout video. But if you're completely new to that style of exercise, you may want to try the beginner version.
4. Rent, borrow or buy the workout video. If you just want to try a new type of exercise, consider borrowing the workout video from your local library or renting it from your local video store. This allows you to sample the workout without a big financial commitment. If you decide that you like the workout video, you can then purchase it.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.