While many people point to TV watching as an easy way to get fat and lazy, I've found my television to be an indispensable piece of exercise equipment.
Probably not surprisingly, the main way I've used my TV to keep in shape is through exercise videos and DVDs. I bought my first aerobics video seven or eight years ago. At the time, I was in college and attended aerobics classes at the intramural sports facility every week. I wanted a way to continue my aerobics while I was at home during the summer and a video seemed to fit the bill.
Once I was working out using the video I actually discovered that I preferred the video over face-to-face instruction. I could do the exercises any time I wanted to, I didn't need to fight to see the instructor at the front of the room, and I didn't have to feel silly or self-conscious if I couldn't keep up or didn't understand a new move. I also felt like I was getting a better workout as I learned the moves through repetition and could perform the entire routine smoothly.
The downside of repetition is that eventually you get tired of doing the same moves time after time. One way to avoid boredom is to purchase several different videos and rotate between them. Another good way to add variety to your workout is to rent exercise videos or check them out from your library. This is also a good way to try out a new video or DVD to see if you like it before committing to a purchase. I've tried out several new trends like pilates this way to see if they were for me before I spent a lot of money on a new workout. Whether you're a beginner or an exercise guru consider picking up a few workout videos to help you get in shape in the comfort of your own home.
Another way that I've used my television to stay in shape also required the help of a video game console. Again, not something that you normally hear associated with fitness. I have been playing the game Dance Dance Revolution for several months and it's a fun and challenging game that also gets your heart pumping. Dance Dance Revolution started out as an arcade attraction. You stand on a dance pad with directional arrows. Then arrows appear on the game screen, and you must step on the corresponding arrows on your dance pad at the correct time. Now you can bring the arcade experience into your own home, with games for the Playstation, Playstation 2 and Xbox systems. You use a dance pad instead of a controller. A basic pad is typically included with the purchase of a game, but you can also buy nicer ones, including a metal surface that's just like the dance pads you'd find in arcades. As an added advantage, Dance Dance Revolution is so much fun, you won't even realize you're getting a great workout. It can also be fun to break out with a group of friends. When was the last time you got any exercise while just hanging out with friends?
