DVD Workouts

All of the snow that has been blanketing the nation does not make it easy to work out. After women everywhere set hopeful resolutions for the new year to lose weight, get fit, and generally be healthier the clouds decided to open up and mock us with never ending snow.

There's no denying that it's harder to go work out in the winter. Over the next few weeks I will try to do at least a weekly post about how I've been trying to beat the snow day blues and get in shape for summer. (swim suit season here we come)

On days when it's to cold to go outside I like to pop in a workout DVD and work up a sweat. This can be difficult since I live in a tiny apartment, but I work with the space to the best of my ability.

I usually try to do DVDs right when Haley goes down for her nap, that gives me anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour to work out, and then usually time for a shower before she wakes up and demands my attention.

Of course, things don't always go as planned during nap time, (aka, I get distracted reading blogs or looking at pictures) so occasionally I have to force myself to work out while Haley is up and about.

She was pretty content sitting in her bouncy seat to watch her crazy mama for a little while. (Maybe if I can keep up with a healthier lifestyle it will rub off on her... here's to wishful thinking)

But, she does eventually get restless, so she opts instead to roll around on the floor. Did I mention my tiny apartment. Hopefully adding leaps over Haley will make my workout that much more effective.

Here are a few Tips

-Embrace the cheese. Most work out DVDs can be really cheesy, but don't let that stop you. You might even find the trainers encouragement and self-talk motivating.

-Don't worry. Even if you only do one segment, be proud of your 10 minutes. Any time spent moving is better than time spent sitting. Even a 10 minute workout is worth the effort.

-Push yourself. Hold yourself accountable and give it all you've got. Don't hold back just because you feel silly or because no one is watching. Even if you can't work out for long, you can work hard. A lot of DVDs offer modifications on different moves, only do the easier version if you need to, and don't be afraid to try the harder versions.

- Be Prepared. Nothing breaks up your workout more than stopping mid lunge to get a glass of water. Get your weights, some water, and any other equipment you need ready before you start. Also, set the thermostat a little lower and layer your clothes, that way you can just take off layers as you get warmed up. You're acting like an athlete, so don't forget to dress the part.

- Partner up. Working out with a friend, spouse, or your older kids can be a fun way to bond, and a great way to push yourself. I love when my husband joins me for a DVD. He finds some of them a little too cheesy, but will gladly admit that there are some tough work outs. Also, it's pretty hilarious to try to find room for both of us to do push-ups in our limited floor space.

My top 5 work out DVDs ... (I'll add the other 5 to my top 10 list after I try out a few more)

for most of these all you need is some 2-5 lb. hand weights.

Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred

3 2o minute workouts of increasing difficulty. They are done in intervals, 3 minutes strength, 2 minutes cardio, and 1 minute abs with a warm up and cool down. These workouts are intense but you feel incredibly accomplished when you're done. My only complaint is that I haven't figured out how to skip the DVD intro that come on each time I put the DVD in. ( I usually try to do some dishes while I wait for the main menu to pop up)

Perfect Body Workout with Amy Dixon

I really like Amy Dixon. This DVD has some fun sports inspired moves and a great yoga stretch in the special features.

Total Workout in Ten with Amy Dixon

If you only have 10 minutes this is a great way to spend them, or you can stream a few workouts together to create a more complete routine. There is a bonus section using an exercise ball.

Train for your Body Type with Jessica Smith.

This DVD is nice because it can be tailored to your specific needs. It has a custom workout feature to help you set a routine to attack your problem areas in the time you have.

Carmen Electra Aerobic Striptease

This DVD is fun and helps you feel sexy. But, it is not the most challenging workout. However it does have some good stretching and once you learn the routines they are easy to do when you are away from our TV or away from your exercise equipment.

There are several other workout DVDs I'm eager to try; The biggest loser DVDs, the rest of Jillian Michael's DVDs, and skinny bitch fitness DVDs. I also want to find good DVDs for yoga, kick boxing, exercise ball workouts, and cardio dance routines.

check out more great tips at Works For Me Wednesday.