FitSugar

DVD Review: Element Pilates Weight Loss For Beginners

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 03:30:00 -0700

Although I shy away from DVDs with "weight loss" in the title, this one looked so appealing, I couldn't resist giving it a try. Element: Pilates Weight Loss For Beginners ($15) did not disappoint. Hosted by Brooke Siler of Re:Ab Pilates studio in New York, this 51-minute video splits its time between Pilates mat work and "cardio" moves, all filmed soothingly by the seashore.

Rather than explain the moves in the moment, Siler delivers directions via a voiceover. But I can't complain, since the voiceover is one of the most detailed and helpful I've ever heard. You could pretty much follow the entire workout without ever looking at the screen, allowing you to focus on maximizing the moves. She offers constant reminders - at just the right times - for what you should be pulling in, tightening, or thinking about, yet the reminders never feel repetitive.

For details on the workouts, read more.

I prefer to start with the prep and mat workout, which is fairly low-impact yet lively and varied. It really is a perfect introduction for beginners, but veterans won't be bored, especially if you use the workout to ease into the day. The different variations on the rollup move were particularly challenging.

The "cardio" portion isn't cardio the way you'd think; rather than get your heart rate pumping, you're working on midtempo moves mostly from a standing position. But for Pilates, it does feel like a moderately high calorie burn, and it's a great way to get moving after the more focused mat work. I've done both portions a number of times and will definitely keep this one around. Interested? You can get the DVD on Amazon for $7.49.

DVD Review: 10 Minute Solution Quick Tummy Toners

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 03:00:00 -0800

I have rarely met a 10 Minute Solution video I didn't like. Lately I can't get enough of Pilates Perfect Body, but I decided to mix up my routine with 10 Minute Solution Quick Tummy Toners. The video promises five 10-minute workouts that all focus on slimming your waist and strengthening your core. Rather than sticking strictly to Pilates or yoga, the video uses both, in addition to a cardio segment.

I expected (and hoped) that a 50-minute ab workout would leave my core muscles pleasantly sore - so I could really feel it working. But in this sense, I was disappointed. I wasn't really sore the next day at all, but I wanted to be. While I enjoyed the workout and found it easy to follow, I felt like it should have worked my abs harder. The yoga abs portion was compelling and would be tough for beginners, but it wasn't as focused on tummy toning as I would have liked. I also really liked the cardio interlude - it was tough but fun - but it lacked core concentration.

Though the segments stressed the idea of whittling away the waist, that idea seemed more symbolic than strenuous. While I'll keep this DVD on hand to mix up my routine, I'm going to keep looking for the ultimate ab workout.

Work It at Home With 8 Great DVDs

FitSugar — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 04:36:26 -0800

One thing I love about my job is getting to review all of the best (and worst) fitness DVDs out there. Since many of us are moving our workouts inside for wintertime, I've rounded up some of my recent faves. Whether you're getting ready for a wedding, getting into yoga, or just getting in shape, here are eight great fitness DVDs to check out.

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DVD Review: 10 Minute Solution Pilates Perfect Body

FitSugar — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:00:18 -0800

If host Suzanne Bowen's physique is any indication, the name of this DVD - 10 Minute Solution: Pilates Perfect Body - isn't hyperbolic. In fact, I found her muscle tone highly motivating as I was feeling the burn in my own muscles. Bowen is like a highly skilled and encouraging friend, moving fluidly from one move to the next while acknowledging that it's not easy for most people.

This DVD is certainly more challenging than 10 Minute Solution: Rapid Results Pilates, which I also enjoyed. Like the rest of the series, the vid is split into five 10-minute workouts: Pilates perfect belly, buns and thighs, arms, perfect silhouette, and a stretching series. It's easy to follow, but because it offers creative twists on classic mat Pilates, it won't bore intermediate users. The ab and leg workouts are especially challenging, targeted, and intense. I found myself using the perfect silhouette and comparatively easy stretching segments as a much-needed break.

The main reason I recommend this video is plain and simple: The results are palpable. After doing it once, I was significantly (but pleasantly) sore, and after three workouts in two weeks, I could really feel the effects of the extra toning.

Will You Buy Kim's Workout Video?

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:00:00 -0700

Despite the rumors that Kim Kardashian has had a little work done, I'll be the first to say that I think she has a great figure. Kim and her awesome trainer Kathy Kaehler have recently launched a new workout DVD called Kim's Body Beautiful ($25), which is apparently the workout that Kathy created for Kim while she's traveling and at home. If you don't want the full video you can buy single workout videos downloadable for $5.

Me, I'll try anything once but what about you? Will you buy Kim's workout video?

Get Wellness Tips From the Mayo Clinic at Home

FitSugar — Fri, 23 May 2008 13:00:00 -0700

The Mayo Clinic offers top-notch medical care but the problem is that not all of us live within driving distance to Rochester, MN.

Now, you can get wellness advice and tips directly from the Mayo Clinic in the comfort of your own home by using their new Wellness Solutions DVDs. From high blood pressure, to back pain, to IBS, you might just be able to find a solution for whatever common health problem ails you. Each DVD includes an informational section along with treatment options (alternative and traditional), nutritional information, and a yoga session. One DVD costs $20, so while they're not the cheapest DVDs on health topics, you know your money is well spent since the advice you're getting comes from the best of the best. Buy online at Gaiam.

Has anyone tried any of these wellness DVDs already? I'd love to hear what you think.

DVD Review: Better Sex Through Yoga – Volume 3

FitSugar — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 02:30:00 -0700

I just checked out Volume Three ($14.95), of the Better Sex Through Yoga series. I was excited to try it (no, not in that way), because this DVD is the most advanced video of the three.

The first thing I noticed is that the instructor was scantily clad; I think I actually murmured out loud, "Yeah, like I'd ever practice yoga in a short tank top and my undies." If you can get over the costuming issues, the yoga part is actually pretty good. She gives great instruction, and helpful tips appear on the screen like "spread your fingers wide in Down Dog." Then suddenly, that eerie voiceover lady from the first two DVDs starts piping in with instructions like, "Slowly breathe into your sexual core," and "Stretch your sexual core." To top it all off, the camera zooms in on the instructor's crotch and her little undies while doing a Wide-Legged Forward Bend. So unnecessary. I was also entertained by the fact that the instructor and the two yogis following her were spritzed with oil or glitter or something to make it look like every inch of their skin was glistening.

I was expecting this video to focus more on opening your hips and hamstrings, and to work on increasing flexibility in your entire body, which would then enhance your sex life. This video was borderline like a porno, and the only part about it that touched on sexuality was that the people were wearing next to nothing. There are so many better yoga DVDs out there.

DVD Review: Tank Top Arms, Bikini Belly, Boy Shorts Bottom

FitSugar — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 04:00:00 -0800

In preparation for summer (yay!) I figured I'd check out a new DVD that was sent to me called, Tank Top Arms, Bikini Belly, Boy Shorts Bottom with Minna Lessig ($12.99). You start with a very aerobics oriented warm-up, that I've got to say, was pretty vigorous. It was nice to get right into it, though I couldn't help but think what the actual workout was going to be like if this was just the warm up.

I'm pretty picky when it comes to workout DVDs so to find out what I thought read more.

After the warm up you move into the tank top arm circuit, which includes exercises for the arms and upper body. This is followed by the bikini belly portion (core/abs), boy shorts bottom circuit (legs/booty), full body toning circuit (the toughest and my favorite portion), and cool down - each are broken into about 15 minute segments. You're going to need light and heavier dumbbells, or soup cans/water bottles if you don't have a set at home. With the exception of a few of them (I had to laugh at the shoulder shimmy, since I felt like I was shaking my boobs for the TV), most of the exercises presented are good standard exercises that you can incorporate into your gym routine - most are those that I already do on a regular basis.

I'm not sure how I feel about the instructor saying things like, "Come on, give it to me," as a form of encouragement, but the workout is really good if you can get past it. I suggest you break it up by doing one section on its own day along with some form of cardio. Also, be sure to start with a light weight and move to heavier weights as you get stronger. I highly suggest this DVD to someone looking to get in a good resistance workout without all the frills - I'll definitely be doing it again, and again.

Top Five Fitness DVDs

FitSugar — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 08:45:00 -0800

Looking for a new DVD to add a little something different to your current routine?
Fitness Magazine recently outlined their top five picks for fitness DVDs that you may want to consider adding to your collection.

10 Minute Solution: Tone Trouble Zones! Perfect for someone who doesn't have a lot of time for strength training. You don't need dumbbells, just the resistance band that comes with the program. The 10-minute workouts target different areas, from shoulders to bum. (anchorbayentertainment.com, $16.98)
Bell Express 15 Cardio Fitness Kit. This DVD comes with a stability ball and jump rope. The video stars athlete/model Gabby Reece and shows her exercising alongside a trainer. You can do the workout in 15 minutes or add a warm-up to make it a little longer. (gotogabby.com, $29.99)

There are three more DVDs and one is a fave of mine, so read more.

Billy Blanks Tae Bo Amped. The new set of five workout DVDs comes with a weighted bar that you can use if you want to make the moves even more challenging. You'll get a great cardio workout while incorporating strength moves. Blanks' energy is contagious. (billyblanks.com, $39.95). I love the Full Throttle workout!.
Get Ripped & Chiseled With Jari Love. She does tons of repetitions, so you really exhaust your muscles. This is for those who have had experience lifting weights and want to take it to the next level. Love hits every major muscle in a big way, and you will definitely be sore the next morning. (razorfitness.com, $14.99).
Jeanette Jenkins: The Hollywood Trainer 21 Day Total Body Circuit Workout. Great for beginners. The moves are all ones you've seen before - crunches, push-ups, lunges - but have modifications to keep them from being boring. There are tips for making the exercises harder. The playlist is awesome. This DVD keeps your energy level high. (amazon.com, $9.99)

How Often Do You Use Fitness DVDs?

FitSugar — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 02:30:00 -0800

I own tons of workout videos, because as a mother of two, getting to the gym or to a class doesn't always happen. I can pop in a video after the girls are in bed or during a rare double nap time. I know some DVDs can be pretty boring or cheesy, but they're better than nothing. I probably use a video twice a month.

What about you? Are you into using fitness DVDs? How often do you use them?