So we already know I have a fitness DVD addiction. It has taken me some time to figure out which ones work best for me and why. I have some duds that I have done once and never picked up again, and I have others that are my "at home gym" staples.
With new options consistently being released, it might be hard to know which to purchase. So here are my tips:
1. Make sure it doesn't involve overly complicated equipment or relies on a specific tool. I bought those Billy Blanks DVDs that required the bands you stepped into. I brought them with me when I spent a summer interning in NYC. I accidentally left them there. I haven't done those DVDs since.
2. Read the reviews first. There are enough fitness bloggers out there that you can absolutely find a review of the workout. Amazon is great too. They can let you know if the marketing lives up to the hype or if you should just pass this one by.
3. Read the covers. If you are a beginner you might not want to pick up Jillian Michaels' extreme DVDs, and possibly start with one of her easier workouts. They will also tell you how much time the workouts will take, which is important for your decision.
4. Test them first. In addition to finding reviews, Googling the DVD can also yield clips. Do them, it might whet your appetite for the full thing.