The world of exercise videos has exploded since the days when Jane
Fonda ruled the scene. Today you can get tapes on everything from yoga
to bellydancing to step that can help you to get back into shape
without having to leave your living room.
When choosing an
exercise video, start out slow, says Liz Neporent, board member of the
American Council on Exercise: "Regardless of your fitness level before
you got pregnant, it's best to start at the beginner level and work
your way back rather than risk injury." (Of course, be sure to check
with your doctor about how soon you can begin any exercise program
following your delivery.)
Here, new tapes that will make fitting fitness into your new mommy routine easier than ever:
Crunch: Fat Burning Yoga
This 45-minute video teaches you
basic yoga moves at a faster pace, so you burn calories while relaxing
your body and mind. Says new mom Susanne Barkan, "I do the video while
my daughter's napping. The quick relaxation segment refreshes me and
the ab section has helped me get back into my jeans."
Pilates for Dummies
Celeb moms such as Madonna use Pilates
to get back in shape post-baby. This 45-minute video teaches you 18
basic Pilates mat exercises which will tone your whole body, improve
flexibility, and help you get better posture.
Tamilee Webb's "I Want that Body"
If you've been wary of
strength training because you think it will make you look bulky, this
video will change your thinking. Webb teaches you basic
muscle-strengthening moves that, when done for just 15 minutes, two
times a week, will help you get the arms, abs, and butt, and thighs you
want.
Bellydance: Basic Dance
If you're the kind of person that
prefers workouts that feel less like exercise, and more like fun, this
is for you. This 45-minute tape teaches you basic moves from the
ancient art of bellydance that will get your heart rate up and help you
burn fat.
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