5 Home Workout DVD's For Runners

There is no arguing that incorporating cross training, core and strength work into your running regimen will make you a faster, fitter, stronger runner. But maybe you don’t want to pay for a gym membership. Or maybe you aren’t able to make it to the gym during the available classes.

The good news is that there are plenty of awesome workout DVDs that you can utilize to help keep you on track and working hard. I’ll be the first to admit that for years I avoided workout DVDs. I (wrongly!) assumed that I wouldn’t get a good workout from them and therefore, they were a waste of money and time.

But, take it from me— there are some out there that will give you a fantastic workout from the comfort of your home while also providing some other benefits:

Cost/No Gym Membership: One time cost. Many workout DVDs are under $20 (and often are on sale for under $10).

Accessibility: You can do the DVDs at any point during the day–early in AM after a run, during the day while your children nap, at night after work–and all from the comfort of your home.

Time Saver: No need to drive to a gym or studio.

Fit Into Your Schedule: Even if you only have 20 minutes, you can pop in a DVD and get a great workout. Fit in what you can with the time you have!

Below are my top 5 workout DVDs that I use to supplement my running routine:

1. Pilates Abs. This 25 minute workout includes a warmup and cooldown and about 20 minutes of intense ab work. There are two demonstrators on the DVD that show you the beginner and advanced methods of each exercise. (Note: This is NOT an easy workout. Online reviews have indicated it is geared more towards those in the intermediate+ field of Pilates.) Cost: $14.98
2. Jillian Michaels 6 Week Six-Pack: Want a sweat-inducing, leg and arm shaking workout? Then this is the one for you! Jillian Michaels offers two 30-minute workouts (plus warmup and cooldown). It’s geared towards your abs but she incorporate total body exercises throughout the entire DVD. Cost: $14.98
3. XTend Barre: Lean & Chiseled: The program is divided into three segments: upper body, core and barre. Each targets different areas of the body. It incorporates both toning and cardio elements that help lengthen and strengthen your entire body. Cost: $16.99
4. Power Yoga Collection: This DVD contains 3-one hour yoga programs— Yoga Burn, Power Yoga and Yoga Conditioning for Athletes. These are physically challenging workouts with some cardio but easy to follow. (Note: These are not suitable for someone who is brand new to Yoga. You need to have a basic understanding of poses). Cost: $12.75
5. Spinervals Collection: If you have a trainer or a bike, this is a great collection that will provide you with a tough workout from the comfort of your home! There are 48 different videos ranging from 30 minute workouts to 100-milers (over 5 hours of instruction). Cost: $24.95+ per video.