Gym vs Workout DVDs

I dont think I work as hard with work out DVDs as I would in a face to face class or the gym. In a face to face class the instructor is there and pushing you in real life. I have no motivation to work hard for a pre recorded "Push through this" on a video. It's also easier to slack off because I notice things around the house that I need to do.

Gym classes only. I can't work out at home (not motivated) and can't work out on my own at the gym (not fun).

Classes at the gym are the only thing that gets me going and I go 4 times a week.

I definitely prefer the gym because I feel like I get less distracted than at home. I have a purpose and focus to be at the gym and I work harder for my workout. Then when I get home, I truly relax knowing I got a good workout in.

Girl! Just because you want to workout at home doesn't mean you have to do the workouts alone! Thousands of other women are in the same boat as you (engaged and want to lose weight)! Get connected with challenge groups for support and motivation!

I prefer the gym, I'm big into weightlifting though. I also have some Beachbody DVDs, I say if you get bored easily do a mix of both. maybe gym 2-3 times a week, and a dvd twice a week? That way you're getting the benefits of both and it keeps your body guessing a little bit.

I love workout videos! I do Insanity Max 30 which has been great, I recently started running outside as well to add some variety. I think workout videos can help as long as you go as hard as you can.

Quite frankly it 100% depends on your goals and your own ability to get off your ass and do the work.

Secondly- you do not NEED to work out to lose weight. While it is extremely important and will help with the process, make you feel good- increase energy and probably help you sleep better- it is not a requirement in terms of losing weight.

That being said:

Workout DVD's by in large are cardio based- there are VERY few body weight workouts that have progressive loading that will help you get stronger and help you build muscle through neurological adaptation.

So- If you're goal is to lose weight and develop muscle definition doing the at home workout DVD's probably is the weaker of the two options.

If you're just looking to check the box and get a quick sweaty workout in? then DVD's are probably fine.

From my meager experience of being in the fitness world and my 3 year stint as a trainer- most people have little success with DVD's and or at home training programs- it's just so easy to get distracted at home. That doesn't mean it cannot be done. It most certainly can- it just seems to be harder for most people.

The spending of the money on a gym membership- and physically GOING to a gym- and then the gym environment where you make friends and chat about things- seems to help people and spur them on more success. It isn't like that for everyone for sure- but there is a solid trend line and data that shows "community" helps people succeed in their goals and consistency.

Work out dvds

Follow up thought I left off....

If you're getting bored at the gym have you ever done a long term program? I find what bores me at the gym is when I'm lifting on a program that has no "end" just lifting for the sake of lifting with no increase in intensity or progression just destroys my lifting soul. But if I have a plan- and I know what I'm after and there is a long term goal- I don't get bored.

I prefer the gym. I also do different workout programs to keep the exercises new and "shock" my muscles.

I like dvds. You can do them at home and often you don't need a lot of tools. Insanity is my favorite

Strength training (gym ---> weights) will get you faster, better results. But nothing will work if your diet isn't up to par.

I say go to classes at a gym. I do Orange Theory twice a week and cannot say enough good things about it. If you're getting bored with your routine it's time to switch it up. Good for your sanity and better that your muscles not do the same thing over and over again. Lots of gym memberships come with classes in all sorts of varieties from just cardio to only lifting and a combo. Try some out and see what you like.

I do both! I have a gym membership at Planet Fitness. It's $21/mo. I get to bring a guest (usually my fiancé) and tanning! Sometimes I just want to go home after work. I love The Fitness Marshal on YouTube! He is amazing and so much fun! I like to switch it up because I get bored with the same thing!

I was just about to say "The Fitness Marshall"!!!

I work at home, so I work out at home too....over the course of the day. That wouldn't work for everyone, but it works for me....

I like working out at home better... I do the bozu, free weights, and resistance bands. Blast my music and turn on the tv and I workout the best because no one is watching me

I prefer the gym, I get ideas from other people there. Or at least do classes or something. I have zero accountability when doing home workout. Plus I'm a heavy lifter very minimal cardio now so gym is helpful. Find a cheap gym and do both? Cardio to lose the weight and weights to tone and build. Good luck!

I prefer the gym. I'm there and don't get distracted. When I do dvds at home I give up after 5 minutes and sit on the couch

If you can afford it, consider mixing in classes. I work out twice as hard when I'm in public—jogging gets turned up to running, 5 lbs get jacked up to 10 lbs.