Home vs gym workouts

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Whether you're time poor or just, you know, poor, DVD home workouts can be an enticing alternative to going to the gym.

But although some people swear by them, is doing a pre-recorded routine in your lounge room really as effective as spending some quality time in the gym?
Personal trainer Ally Walker, who runs Flipping Fit in Melbourne, says that finding the motivation to hit the play button is one of the biggest issues when it comes to doing video exercises. "The problem with home DVD workouts is that they require a high level of self-motivation and discipline," she explains. "Unfortunately, the distractions of being at home can quickly sabotage your workout: the phone rings, a child or partner interrupts you, or you make excuses to do household chores or watch TV instead.
At least when you go to the gym or go for a run in the park, you are in a dedicated workout environment." With this in mind, we looked at some popular DVD workouts and asked the pros how the 2D version of a fitness class compares to the real thing.

DIY YOGA
While yoga may seem like a living-room-friendly form of exercise, for inexperienced yogis, it's advisable to get some in-person instruction before embarking on any DVD program. Bianca Machliss, director of Yoga Synergy in Sydney (yogasynergy.com.au), says having a qualified teacher keeping a watchful eye over you will benefit your workout in more ways than one. "In a class, you should get attention from the teacher to correct your postures so you aren't doing anything dangerous or harmful," she explains. You should also get more instructions than a DVD can offer."
You're also likely to find a class more motivational and enjoyable. "When you're alone, it's easy to get distracted and just give up - but with the guidance of the teacher and others in the class, it helps you to stay focused," says Bianca.
But don't write the DVD off completely - a well-instructed video can make a valid alternative to a class if you can't attend for some reason. But if you do choose to go for a home workout, Bianca advises you don't push yourself beyond your abilities. "Be mindful of only doing what feels right for your own body - yoga isn't a no-pain, no-gain type of thing, so if you're hurting, you must listen to your own body."
Verdict: A DVD yoga workout is only recommended for participants who are experienced and know the correct alignments to avoid injury.

EVERYBODY DANCE NOW
If you prefer something more high energy, then throw on your dancing shoes (i.e. sneakers), make like Madonna and get into the groove with the popular Latin-inspired dance workout Zumba. "The idea is to forget you're exercising - it's more of a party atmosphere," says Zumba instructor and professional dancer Renee Von Senden.
A Zumba class, which combines a variety of dance styles (including hip-hop, samba, salsa and mambo) with aerobics, allows you to feed off the energy of your teacher and other participants. This in turn, says Von Senden, makes you more motivated. "If you're feeling flat, your instructor and other students will help pump you up. Plus, Zumba is a really social thing - a lot of my students go for coffee and hang out together after class."
However, for those who prefer to refine their dance moves in private, a DVD Zumba session can be less intimidating than attending a class. "At home you can take it at your own pace," explains Von Senden. "If you want something explained again, you've got the beauty of the rewind button… You don't have to move on until you feel fully comfortable with a routine."
Verdict: A DVD can help you forget to be self-conscious and it's great for newbies who want to learn all the moves.

HITTING THE MAT
Pilates instructor Kathy Engelbert from Fit 4U Now in Sydney agrees that personal interaction is always more effective when it comes to working out. Like yoga, the techniques used in Pilates are very specific and are best learnt in a class or in a one-on-one session. There a qualified instructor can give you feedback on your breathing and posture, and tailor the session to your individual needs.
"Past exercise history and assessment of health history is important in prescribing the specific exercises a client needs," she says. This guidance will help you to work within and to your limits, while avoiding discomfort and injury and allowing you to progress at your own pace. In other words, you'll get a more effective workout.
Engelbert admits that DVD Pilates can be a good option for those who are on a tight budget or don't have the time to take part in a group or individual session. However, she suggests asking a qualified fitness professional to recommend a video that suits your needs, rather than just picking one at random.
Bianca agrees. "Just because someone puts together an exercise video, it doesn't make them an expert on the subject," she says. "Research the credentials of the person creating it rather than just going for glossy packaging or a cheap price."

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