I have always been more of a "workout at home to a DVD" kind of a girl. (Or VHS in my teens!) It's cheap, convenient, and no one is watching me wimp out on some of the moves. Recently, I have ditched most of the DVD's for some really awesome fitness apps that I have discovered.
So if you are like me, and the gym is not your thing, here are some of my favorite fitness apps and DVD's that I think you should check out.
Fitness Apps (iPhone)
Running:
Run 5K ($2.99) - I used this app last fall when I was training for my 5K. You train 3 days a week, and it takes you from alternating 45 second jogs/90 second walks to running a full 30 minutes at the end of 8 weeks. You can listen to your own music, and a voice will prompt you when to walk or run.
10K Runner ($3.99) - I am currently using this app. It is very similar to the app above. You also train 3 days a week, but this one takes you from alternating 60 second jogs/90 second walks to running a full 60 minutes at the end of 14 weeks. You can also listen to your own music, and a voice will prompt you when to walk or run.
Weights/Toning:
Nike Training Club (Free) - I am in love with this app! It is designed especially for women, but be prepared to sweat! It offers over 85 custom workouts for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced for 30 or 45 minute sessions. These workouts were designed by celebrity trainers and professional athletes. You only need a set of free weights and some open floor space. They also use a medicine ball, but I just hold one of my free weights instead. You can listen to your own music, and a voice coaches you through the workout. You can even preview the entire workout beforehand, and watch demo videos of the exercises. I can't say enough good things about this app, and it's FREE!
Yoga:
All-in Yoga ($.99) - This is a great and challenging yoga app. It has dozens of pre-designed yoga routines from 12 minutes to 90 minutes or you can create your own. Much like the Nike app, you can listen to your own music and watch video demos beforehand. There is also a voice that prompts you through all of the exercises. I have found yoga to be a great addition to my regular workout routines, especially now that I am running. I am stronger, more balanced, and much more flexible.
Music:
Pandora (Free) - I love Pandora Radio! They have an excellent yoga station that I use when I do yoga. It is so relaxing and tranquil. For running and cardio, I enjoy indie rock. My favorite stations are Ratatat, Vampire Weekend, The Go! Team, and Gungor.
I also love to listen to Lecrae, who is an awesome Christian rapper with very deep and challenging lyrics. If I am in the mood for something a little calmer and meditative, I really love A New Liturgy by Aaron Niequist. Each session is a 25 minute journey with songs, scriptures, prayers, and readings. My favorite is No.2 "Blessed to be a Blessing". If you see my swiping tears off my face while I am running, you'll know that that's what I am listening to.
DVD's
Cardio/Toning:
Power 90 - Before I discovered the Nike Training Club app, Power 90 was always my go-to DVD when I was ready to get in shape. It was designed by Tony Horton, the man behind P90X, and it is great for cardio and toning. His exercises are pretty classic with lunges and squats for legs, and using free weights for arms. He even throws in a little bit of yoga. Overall, it is a great and challenging workout.
Slim in 6 - Before I bought Power 90, I always used Slim in 6. It is similar to Power 90, but they use resistance bands. This workout is both a cardio and a toning workout.
Jillian Michaels - I haven't personally used her DVD's, but my sister highly recommends them. Jillian (from Biggest Loser) is tough and she really pushes you. And that's what it takes to reshape your body. You have to push yourself.
Yoga:
Yogalosophy - This workout was designed by Mandy Ingber, trainer to Jennifer Aniston. It is a great mix of yoga and toning exercises. It is really challenging and you will feel it in your muscles the next day. She is a little bit annoying, but there is an option to turn off her talking and just listen to the music.
Rodney Yee - Once again, I haven't personally used this DVD, but my sister is a big fan. He is very thorough in instructions which is helpful when learning how to hold correct yoga poses.
So those are my favorite fitness apps and DVD's. I'd love to hear some of your favorites!
Always,
Amanda
