Saturday, February 18, 2012

My Favorite: Exercise DVDs

"Sometimes we are resistant to things or intimidated by things but when you actual try it, when you put yourself out there, and you take a chance, and you take a risk, you grow in ways you never imagined... Get out of that comfort zone and try something different. Don't be afraid to fail, don't be afraid to struggle, don't be afraid to learn. There's no such things as perfect. It's about practice. That's why, with yoga, they say 'practice'." Jillian Michaels

 I've tried several styles of exercise in my lifetime. I've ran outside, gone to a gym, taken classes but I never found anything I loved. The key to working out is to find something you love because that is the only way you will have the desire to stick with it.

Workouts are very personal and unique to each person. I know, for myself, I'm better at exercising at home rather than going to a gym or anywhere public. So when I decided to look into practicing yoga, I was pleased when a friend recommended the Biggest Loser Weight Loss Yoga DVD. I tried it once and fell in love. I began to look into similar DVDs so I'd have a variety of workouts to choose from. Here are a few of my favorites.

Biggest Loser Weight Loss Yoga: You don't need an over-heated room to sweat from this yoga workout. Complete with 3 power yoga routines, this DVD made me discover muscles I never knew I had. After about a month of practicing with Bob and the winners of The Biggest Loser past, I began to see my body transform. My muscles became long, lean and strong.

Start off with the 20 minute level 1 routine, then continue on to the 15 minute level 2. Once you have both of those down, add them together. The 10 minute level 3 routine has great free-weight ideas to take into the gym with you when you need a change of scenery. Be sure to do the 5 minute warm up and cool down because it really does help reduce the soreness in your muscles.
 
Yoga Meltdown: When I decided to try Jillian Michaels' Yoga Meltdown I imagined it being pretty much the same as the Weight Loss Yoga I'd grown to love. Little did I know, by meltdown it literally meant my muscles would melt into flimsy pieces of taffy on level 1.

This yoga practice is by no means relaxing. It's meant to get the job done and it does just that. Mixed with quick motion and 15 second pose holds, the 30 minute routine had my body working in ways I was not prepared for. I first tried it in my hotel room with a towel as my mat but ended up in fits. I was slipping, sliding and falling because of all the movements involved. I've only just begun level 1 and I can't even imagine what level 2 has to offer but I'm looking forward to seeing my body in level 2 shape!

Biggest Loser Cardio Max: If you are looking to mix it up a little, these muscle strengthening cardio workouts are a great compliment to your yoga practices. The motto with this DVD is, when you work into your larger muscle groups, you burn more fat and calories faster. No regular cardio workout, this DVD keeps you moving and never gets boring. After my first couple times, my legs were so sore, I could barely walk for 3 days.

Just like the yoga, begin with the 20 minute level one, then the 10 minute level 2. Once you've conquered those, add them together. Level 3 can be added when and where you want it. The goal is to eventually be able to do all 3 levels in one session. Again, be sure to do the 5 minute warm up and cool down. Your muscles with thank you!

Not only do these Biggest Loser trainers know how to sculpt your body, they know how to encourage, motivate and promote your self worth. They are so inspiring to listen to as you go through your routines and they never make you feel less than amazing about your fitness level and/or ability.

You can use these fun filled workouts at home or on the road by playing them on your laptop. Mix and match, find a routine that works for you and enjoy taking care of your body. I sometimes combine the 15 minute Yoga practice with a 10 minute cardio session if I need a change. New to power yoga? Start with Bob and the Biggest Loser cast before attempting to practice with Jillian.

 You will see real results, not only in your appearance but also in your confidence and self image. Purchase these DVDs in stores such as Target or online at Amazon.com. I hope they strengthen your life and your body as much as they have mine.

As always,

Here's to Life, Love, Health and Happiness! Cheers!

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