Workout Series or Programs

Workout programs employ progressive workouts

For some, individual exercise videos or DVDs may not be enough. As various fitness programs gain popularity, many beginning as classes in studios and gyms, they are often translated into home programs and series. These series tend to be more intensive and require more time commitment than one-off DVDs (though it should be noted that oftentimes you can purchase selections from a series singularly). Workout series tend to make loftier promises than one-off DVDs -- programs promise that if you follow their regimen for a certain period of time you'll see results. While some of these programs deliver, others don't. Plus, these series vary in the base fitness level required -- some are suited for beginners, but more often these programs are difficult and geared toward an intermediate to advanced fitness enthusiast. Because these series require more monetary investment, it is important to look closely at the recommended fitness level and to consider the type of workout you're looking for prior to purchase.

Perhaps one of the most well known -- and controversial -- series is P90X: Tony Horton's 90-Day Extreme Home Fitness Workout (*Est. $150). The program emerged in 2004. Created by Tony Horton, a stand-up comedian turned fitness guru, the 12-disc DVD set is a three-month, intense home fitness series which incorporates interval-style cardio, martial arts-inspired workouts and stretch and yoga routines. The program also includes various nutrition guides and fitness programs to help reach individualized goals. Reviewers say that this program offers tough routines that, if used consistently, are bound to deliver results. The program was promoted heavily through infomercials and later received more credibility when celebrities like Ashton Kutcher, Sheryl Crow and Pink touted the program's effectiveness. Still, this series is not without its skeptics. The experts at the American Council on Exercise give the program a lukewarm reception, noting that the workouts transition from one move to the next at a pace that can encourage injury. Plus, the high difficulty level means that this program is only suitable for those of advanced fitness level: Beginners beware.

Since the introduction of P90X, several newer 90-day programs with similar fitness philosophies have emerged. The 10-disc Supreme 90 Day Fitness (*Est. $35) receives decent reviews and is just a fraction of the cost of P90X.

If 90 days seems like too long to wait before seeing your new body emerge, you may want to look to the shorter Insanity: 60-Day Total Body Conditioning Workout (*Est. $145). The high-energy instructor, Shaun T, leads you though long bursts of maximum-intensity exercises with short periods of rest. The actual exercises in Insanity differ vastly from those found in P90X. However, like P90X, reviews are positive and users say that they have seen vast improvements in strength. It is important to note, however, that this is an incredibly taxing program. Exercises performed with incorrect form can lead to serious injury. Only those with a very advanced base fitness level should even attempt this program.

While few fitness series have garnered as much media attention as P90X in recent years, there are several programs that have earned widespread popularity with both users and fitness professionals. These are also known for being more accessible than those programs targeting only the most fit exercisers. Our Best Reviewed pick is an example of this. The Physique 57 (*Est. $60 for series with ball and pump) program was initially offered only as a class in their elite Los Angeles and New York City studios. The program combines isometric exercises and orthopedic stretches to help followers sculpt a feminine but lean body. Throughout the series, muscles are targeted and overloaded to the point of fatigue, then stretched for relief -- a process the founders have named Interval Overload. The original Physique 57 program featured three DVDs -- Classic 57 Minute Full Body Workout, Express 30 Minute Full Body Workout and Arm and Ab Booster 30 Minute Workout. The program also included the necessary exercise ball. In 2010, the program released a second version of this kit, featuring more exciting choreography and challenging moves but relying on the same basic principles.

Zumba has also garnered a fair amount of attention in recent years. Unlike the other series we've discussed, Zumba prides itself on being a fun, energetic departure from the usual workout programs. The Latin-inspired dance fitness program tones the body and blasts calories. The original Zumba Fitness Total Body Transformation System (*Est. $55) includes six workouts (on four discs) and 1-pound Zumba Toning Stick. The program also has a newer, more intensive program, the seven-disc Zumba Fitness Exhilarate: The Ultimate Experience (*Est. $95). The program is well suited for beginners and those looking to get back into a workout regimen. The moves aren't particularly challenging (though learning the steps does take time), but reviewers say this program is a fun way to stay motivated and burn some calories.