So, in case you didn't catch the hint, what I wanted to discuss as my first official post for Ensemble Fitness Club is exercise videos. Let's face it, it's a huge business that's been around since Jane Fonda hit the scene. Collage Video, with thousands of video choices, claims to be the exercise video experts since 1987. Long time video exercise gurus Denise Austin, Kathy Smith, Billy Blanks, and Gilad are now joined by the likes of Jillian Michaels and Bob Harper. Between 2006 and 2007, 8.5 million fitness DVDs were sold in the US. Obviously people buy them, but do they work?
The answer? "yes" and "no". It's really about two things, the video and you.
The video must be safe, have an effective routine/program, and be interesting and engaging.
You must be relatively healthy, injury free, able to repeat movements as shown in good form, AND be self motivated enough to actually do the video workout on your own 2-3 times/week.
How about those new big titles such as P90X, Insanity, Core Rhythms, Turbo Jam, Brazilian Butt Lift(Brazilian Butt Lift...really?)? Well, as always, RESULTS NOT TYPICAL is the rule when you're looking at the testimonials. But, of course, if you move more than you are currently, you will see some results.
CAUTION: While I'm a fan of HIIT or High Intensity Interval Training, (P90X and Insanity base their programs on this type of training) and the results it can achieve, with high intensity comes high risk. If your form isn't correct or if you're working with an injury or illness you are running the risk of of something more serious happening to you. For your safety and best results, I would rather have you working with a Personal Trainer or taking a live exercise class where you can get direct feedback on your form. But, even if you decide you want to use the video program, I'd hire a Personal Trainer to walk you through the exercises to make sure you're doing them correctly.
I'd love to hear your feedback and/or answer any of your questions.
Best wishes, Mark
Mark Nutting, CSCS*D, NSCA-CPT-AR*D
NSCA 2009 Personal Trainer of the Year
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Sunday, May 2, 2010
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