Choosing a Fitness Video

Buying an exercise video can be stressful and confusing. With so many videos on the market, many picturing famous celebrities or personal trainers on the cover, it is hard to know which one to pick. If you pick one that isn't right for you, or one that is just plain boring, it will end up as a bookend, much like that exercise bike that doubles as a coat rack.

So how do you choose a video that will give you the effects you want and keep you coming back for more? It is a daunting task. If you have friends who are using videos to get fit, you can ask for some of their favorite recommendations. But, if you are walking down the video aisle without a clear view of what you want, here are some tips you can use to help find a video that is right for you:

• Pick a video with the same pace as you. If you like upbeat music with a lot of movement, you don't want to buy a video that is slow paced with elevator music in the background.


• Be conscious of the space you have available. If you only have the tiny area in front of your coffee table, an aerobic video with lots of movement may not be for you.


• Know what you want to achieve. If losing that after baby look is what you want to do, then pick a video designed for that purpose. If you are an experienced exerciser, you may want to pick a more advanced or high impact workout.


• Know if extra costs are involved. Check the tape's cover to make sure you won't need free weights or a step to do the exercises. If they are required, decide if you want to invest extra money into those products.