When beginning a fitness program, remember patience is essential. Don’t try to do too much too soon and don’t quit before you have a chance to experience the rewards of improved fitness. Exercise must become a habit, one of those things that you do without question, like bathing (I hope) and brushing your teeth. You can’t regain in a few days or weeks what you have lost in years of sedentary living, but you can get it back if you persevere.

And the prize is well worth the price!

EXERCISING AT HOME IS A GOOD alternative for people who are short on time, can’t afford a club membership, or just can’t seem to make it across town to the local gym.

Exercise videos are one option when there are monetary or logistic concerns. While some videos are boring or hard to follow, there are many that are well produced and have the marks of a seasoned, professional fitness instructor. But before you warm up the DVD Player, you should make sure that the video you choose is right for you.

Are you a “video person”?
Exercise tapes are like running shoes; one size does not fit all. You might get claustrophobic just thinking about doing a step routine in a 3 ft. by 5 ft. living room space. You may be the type of person for whom the act of driving to the gym and walking in to a room full of people is the only way to get you motivated.

Conversely, you may like the idea of dancing to the beat of a different drummer in your pajamas and aerobic shoes. And if you need a little variety, or reside in inclement weather, this may be the perfect mode of exercise for you.

Keep goals in perspective
While videos can motivate and inspire you, understand that they can’t shut your kitchen cabinet door or magically melt away 40 pounds in three weeks. It’s very important not to give in to all the hyped marketing surrounding many videos that may make unsubstantiated promises. In fact, any video that promises quick weight loss or instant results is probably unsafe and should be avoided .

If you are really interested in purchasing a video, do some research and find out if one of your friends has the same video, or if NetFlix or YouTube has a trial version.

When starting out, look for boxes that indicate the video is for beginners. Choosing an intermediate or advanced tape could be frustrating and lead to discontinuation of the program.

Find an inspiring instructor
Ideally, you should shop for a video that features a certified, experienced instructor who includes a warmup and a cool-down in the workout. Avoid videos that feature a celebrity as the main selling point, especially if they try to teach the routine themselves without support from a trained fitness professional.

Also, it is important that the instructor offers alternatives to the main program if it is too difficult for you. These are usually referred to as “modifications.” Modifications are included in good videos for a reason, and you shouldn’t feel out of shape or otherwise embarrassed if you have to do a combination on the floor instead of an 8-inch step.

Strike a balance
No matter what style exercise video you choose – such as dance, pilates, step or yoga – work toward building a collection that fosters balance and overall conditioning. This includes aerobics, strength and stretching. Many tapes combine all of these factors.

Perhaps most importantly, dedicate yourself to whatever style or method gets your blood flowing and your body moving.

Finally, be honest with yourself about how motivated you will be to exercise at home before you make the investment. It is also important that you understand how to exercise safely and that your doctor has cleared you to exercise.

Source: American Council on Exercise