Yesterday we had the chance to talk to Tara Costa, former fierce competitor on The Biggest Loser and overall awesome chick. In that interview, we mentioned that she appears in one of BL’s workout DVDs and actually leads  the workout in another recent BL release. Today we put those two BL workout DVDs to the FBG test! (And it’s a tall test because we already loved and reviewed these DVDs and this one as must-owns…) May The Biggest Loser DVD fun begin!

Last Chance Workout

If you regularly watch the show, the phrase “Last Chance Workout” is one that you know and you love (so fun to see what the trainers have them do) and you can only imagine what pain it inflicts on the BL contestants. Well with this DVD you can get a small idea of what they go through for last chance workouts. I’m sure this hour-long DVD isn’t half as tough as what they do on the show, but it ain’t easy.

The DVD is broken down into chapters so that you can easily mix and match workouts (a must-have feature these days). You get an 8-minute warm-up (the DVD says it’s 5 minutes, but they lie!), a 27-minute last chance workout that alternates cardio drills with strength moves, a 10-minute upper-body sculpt, 10-minute lower-body sculpt and a quick 5-minute cool down. If you’re a glutton for punishment, like me, you do all of those segments—back to back.

After some dynamic stretching, you get right into the last chance segment. With basic jacks, jabs and kicks plus rows, bicep curls and raises in a circuit format, it’s not easy, but it’s not terrible. Your heart rate is up but if you work out regularly, it’s doable. Then the final circuit comes with mountain climbers with mean variations. OMG, the terribleness. And that terribleness carried over into the upper-body sculpt when my arms were shaking like leaves. The lower-body section was a little easier, but still had enough versions of lunges to leave my quads tender the next day.

I should not have been surprised though. Jillian is the instructor. And it’s well known that Jillian doesn’t disappoint in the kick-your-ass department. Plus, she’s joined by past cast members Daniel, our Tara (I think we can call her “ours,” right?), Allan and others, which is super fun to watch, and you really get a feel for how much fun these guys have on the show, even though they’re literally working their tails off.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★

Overall: ★★★★

Best for: Those who love the show—and need a more accessible and doable last-chance workout to do at home.

30-Day Jump Start

Now this DVD is the one that Tara instructs. And for not being a trained fitness professional, girlfriend does a pretty good job. She gives solid  modifications, is encouraging without being annoyingly perky and she really makes you want to do it! Success! Ali Vincent (our other girl) also does some instruction, along with Sione. All good. So of the four people shown on the cover, three of them are actually IN THE VIDEO. Meaning that Bob is not in the DVD. What was that noise? Oh, that was the sound of my heart breaking. Yes, Bob is in the tips, but that ish does not count. Fast tear. Slow tear.

So despite the tears, I really enjoyed this one. Having the BL threesome lead the workouts gives it a very real feeling, and it was refreshing to work out with normal folks versus fitness models. They sweat, they jiggle, they giggle and they’re out of breath. It’s pretty awesome. And with five 10-minute segments of cardio (two of those sections), upper body, lower body, ab/core, it’s easy to mix and match your workout. On this DVD though, you can’t program your workout like you could in past BL DVDs. Sad face.

This is definitely the less-hard of the two BL DVDs we’re reviewing today, but I still really liked it. It’s a solid workout with plenty of good strength and cardio moves, plus a lot of planks. Advanced exercisers will find it pretty easy, but for you beginners and intermediates, it’s juuussst right. Even without Bob.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★

Overall: ★★★1/2

Best for: Those who want a workout with normal people in it!

And overall, if you’re a fan of the BL workout DVD series, these are a good addition to your collection! —Jenn

One of the main reasons we work out is to maintain our sanity and clear our minds. While a good run or session on the elliptical does the trick, sometimes you need a good yoga DVD to really stretch and mellow out. Plus, these titles promise to burn a few calories while you do so. In typical FBG fashion, we put them to the test!

Element: Yoga for Weight Loss

Okay, so I’m a little biased when it comes to Element’s workout DVDs. They’re just always so relaxing…like a trip to the spa without the bill. And the same could be said of this workout DVD. The scenery is beautiful, the voice of instructor Ashley Turner is soothing and welcoming, and the entire 50-minute routine flows with just enough cues for safety and just enough quiet time for reflection and relaxation.

My only real complaint is that the title is a little misleading. By including the word “weight loss” in the title, I expected more moving and some sweat. Granted this DVD did have you moving more than any other Element yoga DVD I’ve done, but I wouldn’t recommend it for its calorie burn. What I would recommend it for though is it’s mental approach to weight-loss. Throughout the moves, Ashley cues you to smile, focus on your goals and envision yourself at your healthy weight. Yes, it’s hippity-dippity. And, yes, I love it. For many, the emotional/internal struggle is what weight-loss is really about.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★

Overall: ★★★★

Best for: Those who are ready to address the emotional side of weight loss—and get bendy at the same time.

YogaWorks for Everybody: Body Slim

This was our first venture into the YogaWorks series of titles, and I have to say, I’m a little torn here. In this 50-minute routine, you get the feeling that you’re in an actual yoga class (albeit a brightly lit and somewhat crowded one), which I liked. The instructor gives great cuing, but there’s JUST SO MUCH OF IT. Like she never stops talking. And her voice is kind of like Carrie Bradshaw, only higher and more nasal. Even my husband was getting annoyed, and he was sitting in the other room.

Then there’s the actual workout itself. The first half I found to be pretty easy and kind of boring. The second half? AWESOME. You constantly move, get your heart rate up, and hit just about every muscle. So, I loved it, and I hated it. So torn.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★
Music: ★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★

Overall: ★★1/2

Best for: Those who need a yoga DVD that burns calories but also want an easy 20-minute warm-up. Also good for those with Dr. Jekell-Mr. Hyde personalities.

Hemalayaa Yoga for Everyone

I’ve tried a couple of Hemalayaa’s Bollywood dance DVDs, and while they’re not the most challenging workouts I’ve done, they are a thoroughly enjoyable break from the gym and a lot of fun.

Hemalayaa brings her same goofy personality to Yoga for Everyone, a set of two 20-minute workouts. Both segments of the DVD are on the easier side, so it’s definitely a yoga session for someone who is slow to move in the morning but wants a stretch or for someone who wants an easy recovery day.  Both segments are quite similar, so if  you’re looking for a huge variety, this isn’t it. But the sessions incorporate gentle stretching in down dog and hip-opening floor lunges, squats, tree poses and forward bends. You also get to chant—”yuumm” in one segment, “ruumm” in the other—and make funny faces. The chanting and funny faces might throw you off, but they do have a strange way of relaxing you. Plus, I couldn’t help but think this would be a great introduction to yoga for kids; they would love the funny faces coupled with exhalations.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★

Overall: ★★★

Best for: Those who are new to yoga and may be turned off by the seriousness of many yoga DVDs. Also great for those who just want a mellow stretch and relaxation session.

FIT BOTTOMED LINE: IF YOU’RE MORE HIPPITY-DIPPITY, GO WITH ELEMENT. IF YOU WANT YOUR YOGA TO BURN CALORIES AND ARE OKAY WITH HITTING THE FAST-FORWARD BUTTON, GO WITH YOGAWORKS. IF WANT LIGHTHEARTED YOGA THAT DOESN’T TAKE ITSELF TOO SERIOUSLY, HEMALAYAA’S YOUR GAL.

Want to win any of the above titles? Of course you do! Leave a comment below, and we’ll pick three lucky winners in a week! U.S. residents only, please. Good luck, yogis! —Jenn & Erin

Rarely do I see a movie that changes my life. Sure, Footloose taught me some new jammin’ dance moves and Gone with the Wind permanently put “Fiddle-dee-dee” in my vocabulary (with a heavy drawn-out Southern accent, of course), but no movie has really, really changed my life.

That was then. This is now. I can confidently say that Food, Inc. has changed much, including what’s on my plate, what’s in my shopping cart, and my mental process when it comes to grubbin’.

The movie is a documentary into the world of food, namely the big companies behind it. (You may have seen the movie talked about recently by Oprah). From how chickens and cows are treated (living conditions, hormones, other nastiness) to genetically modified crops, it was an eye opener. After watching movies like Super Size Me and reading Fast Food Nation, I wasn’t naive. I knew that I probably didn’t want to really think about where that skim milk was coming from, but it’s easy to turn a blind eye when you’re just seeing the stuff in a pretty carton. This movie quickly pulled the blindfold off though. Without going into gory details and stealing the documentary’s graphic thunder, unless you’re buying free-range meat, you’re in for a rude awakening.

And then, as if that wasn’t enough, I also was popped out of another food bubble: some of the natural, healthy-for-you foods I love aren’t owned by regular folks or small mom-and-pop businesses. Nope, they’ve been snatched up by BIG food companies, who don’t always have your best interests at heart. Sigh, Kashi, Larabar, Stonyfield Farm (and a big thanks to @SFkaty for finding that amazing flow chart). Granted, “big” doesn’t always mean bad, and if big companies like General Mills and Kellogg can bring healthy, organic food to the masses, so be it. But, I guess I’m a bit of a skeptic until proven wrong. I’m from the Show Me State after all, so you gotta show me.

If you’re interested in how what you eat affects your body, your health and the world, I highly encourage you to check out the flick. And if you’re ready to make a change now, check out the below tips, courtesy of Take Part.

1. Stop drinking sodas and other sweetened beverages.
2. Eat at home instead of eating out.
3. Support the passage of laws requiring chain restaurants to post calorie information on menus and menu boards.
4. Tell schools to stop selling sodas, junk food and sports drinks.
5. Meatless Mondays—Go without meat one day a week.
6. Buy organic or sustainable food with little or no pesticides.
7. Protect family farms; visit your local farmer’s market.
8. Make a point to know where your food comes from—READ LABELS.
9. Tell Congress that food safety is important to you.
10. Demand job protections for farm workers and food processors, ensuring fair wages and other protections.

Like the movie says, you get a chance to vote three times a day (unless you eat five mini-meals a day in which case you get five!), so buy, eat and request organic, free-range, healthy foods, and it’s just a matter of time before the market catches up. —Jenn

We know that all of you aren’t into dance, aerobics and Pilates/yoga, so today we’re reviewing two harder-hitting, more athletic-type workout DVDs. So lace up those sneakers, get your game face on, and let’s do it!

Cuerpaso Workout

Cuerpaso’s Gift of Health workout combines a basic boot camp with a bit of Latin-flavored hip swiveling to attain your “ultimate body” (the English translation of “cuerpaso”). One-name celebrity trainer Tadeo leads you through the workout, which is infused with hints of another Latin American favorite: soccer.

Tadeo gives the boot camp a Latin flavor by having you “marchando” to recover from the tough stuff, which basically means a march in place with hip swivel. The basics are definitely covered here—lunges, explosive squats, bursts of cardio—but you also incorporate a soccer ball on a lot of the moves for a fun twist. The soccer ball (or a medicine ball or your imagination) is a great workout assistant. You use it as a marker on the ground to jump over or to bounce on your thighs as you high-knee your heiney off. You also use the ball for lunges, which is great for balance, and as a weight for strength work, such as overhead soccer throws.

While the basics of the DVD are good and it definitely got my heart pumping and muscles burning, I had a few complaints. Tadeo refuses to count correctly, ever. At times he says 10 more and then quits after a few more; sometimes he says four more and then quits at 20. There is no rhyme or reason, but it might be his schtick because he does at one point say that his counts don’t mean anything.

Two backup exercisers were also along for the workout. One had perfect form, while the other one was struggling. I wish Tadeo had taken the opportunity to correct her form or bump her down to easier modifications. The lack of direction on form and few modifications would give me pause in recommending this video to someone who didn’t know some exercise basics.

While the video wasn’t perfect, I did love the 20-minute kids’ workout, which is a great reminder of how much fun it should be to work out. A great way to get the family together and active!

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★
Music: ★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★
Overall: ★★1/2

Fit bottom line: For an exerciser who knows the basics, this could be a challenging boot camp workout with a sporty Latin twist. But if you expect correct counts, turn off the sound immediately!

Athlekinetix: Fitness Challenge

With the tagline: “No sets, no repetition and no choregraphy,” this DVD set had my attention from the get-go. I love choreographed stuff, but sometimes a girl needs a no-frills workout that gets right to the point and beats your fit bottom the heck up. This whole workout runs you through a series of “challenges,” each one about 5 to 8 minutes long. In each challenge you do three to six exercises that range from functional balancing moves to cardio drills to your normal lower-body mat work. It’s basically like circuit training where the circuit is never repeated. And even for an hour-long workout, the time really does fly. Surprisingly quickly. And all you really need for the workout is a pair of dumbbells and a mat, but if you’re lucky enough to have a Bosu, Gliders and BodyBar, you’ll use ‘em.

Three DVDs come in the set, so you get two hour-long workouts, plus a DVD that allows you to mix and match challenges so that your workout never gets dull. Cool, right? I absolutely loved volume 1. Instructor Christina Leon gives good cues, the exercises are great (yet brutal), and, again, the time flies by which is no easy feat. Volume 2? EH. The exercises seemed ridiculous at times (my hubby joked that if they could ask us to levitate they would), and while Christina joked in DVD uno that she “couldn’t count,” in DVD dos she drove me insane with her inability to count—this appears to be the theme of the day. (Again, my husband and I would joke “okay four more left…20 more….3 more…” And we weren’t that far off in our sarcasm. Seriously.) And the music? Two words come to mind…one is rock, and the other rhymes with, ahem, rock.

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★
Music: ★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★
Overall: ★★1/2

Fit bottom line: At less than $25 for the three-DVD set, volume one is worth the price tag. Unless you plan to learn the moves and hit mute, skip volume two. Three is never-get-bored bonus.

If you want to try Athlekinetix and Cuerpaso for yourself, leave a comment! We’ll select two random commenters next week to receive these DVDs! U.S. residents only pretty please! —Jenn & Erin

Yesterday we interviewed Rock & Roll Motorcycle herself, Jillian Michaels. Jillian is most known for her tough yet emotional approach to getting people healthy on The Biggest Loser, and she dished to FBG on her latest venture into nutritional supplements. Today we’re continuing the Jillian content by reviewing two other pieces of her get-fit empire: a book and two of her DVDs. Erin had the opportunity to review Master Your Metabolism, and Jenn was sent her two most recent DVDs to give the once (or 14 times as you’ll see below) over. May the bad-ass Rock & Roll Motorcycling begin!

Master Your Metabolism

If you’ve been battling those extra 15 pounds your entire life and just can’t shake them, Master Your Metabolism may be the book for you. After reader Stephanie P. sent us a detailed email raving about the book, we immediately added it to our to-read list. In the book, Jillian talks about her background and her struggles with keeping her weight down in spite of calorie counting and crazy workouts. She details how she later discovered it was her hormones that were messing up her metabolism. Her testosterone was extremely low, her stress hormones were out of control, and she was also hypothyroid, all of which were wreaking  havoc on her efforts to be as healthy as possible.

In the book, Jillian does an amazing job of breaking down all of the key hormones in the human body, how they can get messed up and what you can do to fix yourself. It’s a very fact-heavy and science-rich book, but Jillian makes it accessible for any reader. She takes a firm stand against processed “Frankenfoods” and recommends whole, organic foods. With meal plans and shopping lists, she makes cleaning up your diet a breeze. As Stephanie said in her email, “It has inspired me to clean up my act…not just to be in better physical shape, but to be in better overall health.” I have to agree that it did the same for me. (Psst! Interested in reading it? Check below for giveaway details!)

Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism

As Bob would say, this workout DVD is no joke. No friggin’ joke. It’s hard. And awesome. Ask my husband. I somehow convinced him to do this with me, and then we were sore together for the two next days. (Kind of my relationship dream, to tell you the truth.) Including a quick warm-up and cool down, Jillian takes you through a 55-minute workout of seven circuits of mostly high-intensity cardio moves that are repeated twice. To get all the way through them, you need a good pair of knees, a lot of energy, a pretty big space to lunge, mountain climb and plank your heart out (including walking planks—OMG the shoulder soreness the next day), and a big towel to soak up your own sweat. Again, it’s no joke. Jillian’s cuing and information is spot-on in this DVD. The only thing left to be desired is the music…it’s not inspiring or special in the least. And, I do not endorse it for beginners unless you’re willing to modify a lot of the moves and hit pause a lot. Definitely a DVD to work up to. And for the intermediate to advanced exercisers (or those who know and love The Shred), add it to your cardio collection stat!

No More Trouble Zones

This workout DVD isn’t as cardiovascularly hard as Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism, but it’s still really tough (read: not for newbies). The 50-minute workout includes a warm-up and cool down and seven full circuits of crazy. With just yourself, a mat and a pair of dumbbells, it’s amazing what pain Jillian can inflict on you. From push-ups to twisting planks to windshield wipers, she brings it. Hawd. And with seven circuits of effective yet unique exercises (you don’t see these moves in every other strength DVD on the market), you get a full-body workout without complicated choreography or perkiness. You get Jillian. Doing her thang. Which is awesome. And she even dogs on her own flexibility—or lack thereof—which filled me with such delight as I am sooo not a bendy person. You rarely get someone making of themselves in a workout DVD. Made me love the DVD even more.

Have we convinced you yet that Jillian is certifiably bad-ass? We thought so! —Jenn & Erin

Want to read Master Your Metabolism? We’re giving away a copy! Leave a comment below telling us why you’d like to win and you’ll be entered! Winners will be notified by email. U.S. residents only, please!

Although gymnast Mitch Gaylord hasn’t won his four Olympic medals in winter sports, we wanted to keep the spirit of the Olympics going strong this week even in our workout DVD review. If you’ve ever wanted to work out with an Olympian, here’s your chance!

Mitch’s Melt It Off! DVD contains four complete workouts—Cardio Burn & Sculpt, Sizzlin’ Abs, High Calorie Melt and Melt in 10—making it a great disc for anyone who wants variety. Plus, the workout came with a 2-pound medicine ball, which is a great addition to any equipment arsenal.

High Calorie Melt is an hour-long cardio and strength workout. You’ll get your heat a-pumpin’ even as you’re doing classic strength moves such as squats, push-ups, lunges and the iron cross—the gymnastics staple in which you pass the medicine ball from one hand to the other overhead and reach your arms out in a T position (not used to that one!). You use the medicine ball for most of the exercises, so your core and upper body are engaged even for lower-body moves.

Cardio Burn & Sculpt is a 40-minute session that incorporates coordination drills along with strength. Agility and coordination take me back to elementary school basketball practice: figure eights with the ball while squatting, passing the ball between your legs and around your back during lunges. Push-ups in this workout also use the ball, and floor work for the butt is killer (think one-legged hip lifts with one foot on the ball. ) Mitchy also punishes you in both of the longer workout sessions by making  you hold a squat with the ball between your knees for what feels like an hour and a half. Oh, the burn.

The Sizzlin’ Abs section incorporates the ball for tons of ab moves on the floor. With the ball between your knees, you twist your lower body to hit your obliques and extend in and out to really get your abs burning. Three one-minute planks are also BRUTAL! The Melt in 10 workout then pulls 10 moves from the other workout segments and puts them together for a 10-minute total-body workout. Perfect for when you’re really short on time.

Throughout each of the workouts, Mitch emphasizes working at your level, be it gold, silver or bronze (cheesy, but it works). He and his cohorts give variations on the exercises so that you can challenge yourself or ease up as needed. Plus, you can always bump up your med ball to a 4- or 6-pounder for even more of a challenge!

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★
Music: ★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★
Overall: ★★★

Fit bottom line: Chock full of basics, Melt It Off! has enough workouts (four!) and enough variations to keep both beginners and more advanced exercisers satisfied!

—Erin

Nope, that’s not the name of a workout DVD. Instead, it’s what I’ve been doing in order to review three of the latest dance workouts! Read on for a hip-shaking, booty-bopping round-up and a chance to win several dancerific workouts!

Dance and Be Fit

The Dance and Be Fit line of workouts has a ton of variety, so whether you’re looking to tone your abs or firm your lower bod, you’ll be able to find a dance workout to fit your needs. I rocked out the Lower Body Burn workout, and while it’s a solid DVD, it didn’t blow me away. The instructor cued by voiceover, which I never prefer to a talking trainer.  The seated warm-up felt a little awkward to me; I tend to prefer standing movements to get limber, rather than the hip openers and straddle stretches that were key in this warm-up.

The dance segments were fun and easy to learn, and while it’s cardio and toning  in one, I thought it best for a recovery day, rather than when you need a kick-your-butt workout. The Heavenly Hips section focused on hip-swiveling moves—great for the hips and the core. I found the Lovely Legs segment to be much more fun, and they even disguised lunge-type moves as dance. Nice!

Bonus: Eighteen additional minutes of two other Dance and Be Fit series earned this DVD an extra half star!

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★
Music: ★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★

Overall: ★★★

Best for: Those who don’t like surprises and need an easy-to-follow dance workout.

Dances of India: Urban Bhangra Bounce

For those who love the culture of India and enjoy Bollywood-esque dance workouts, this one is for you. This fun and energetic workout is easy to follow and chock full of unique dance moves that I’d never seen before. You learn all of the moves for each combination before putting them together at the end. Once you learn the routine, you can jump straight to the advanced workout and skip the lessons.

The dance moves were fairly easy to learn, although they do take a bit of coordination (think arms doing one thing while your bottom half is doing another). You’re bhangra bouncing and kicking and punching your arms and shrugging your shoulders for the whole workout. And it really is a workout; the constant bouncing keeps your heart rate up but isn’t too high intensity that you can’t keep up. The negative? Again, no live cuing. (I hate that, can you tell?)

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★

Overall: ★★★1/2

Best for: Those who want a unique, high-energy Indian dance experience.

Dance with Julianne: Cardio Ballroom

I’ve watched Dancing with the Stars only sporadically, so I can’t say trying Dance with Julianne: Cardio Ballroom was at the very top of my workout priority list. Even though the show is fun to watch, I had it in my head that a ballroom dancing workout would be boring. I may not have been a Julianne Hough fan before trying this DVD. But after trying it? I love her! Not only is she an awesome dancer, but she also turns out to be a great instructor and dance teacher. She turns the cha cha, the jive and the paso into super-fun cardio workouts.

When you first pop in the video, you’ll want to take the private lesson with Julianne. In the lesson, she’ll go over the steps from the workout and give you pointers and tips for doing them well so that you’ll get the most toning bang for your buck. After the lesson, you’ll do the workout, which consists of a great warm-up (complete with a squatting cabbage-patch move; that’s for you, Jenn!) and then all of the ballroom combos themselves. The moves are easy-to-follow, high-energy, and will get you breathless. Julianne’s energy and sass comes through in a big way to keep you motivated and on track. Plus, she’s cute as a freakin’ button and makes leg warmers look cool again. For real!

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★
Music: ★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★

Overall: ★★★★1/2

Best for: Those who want an updated ballroom dance workout with a fresh and sassy trainer!

Fit Bottomed Line: If you like basic, go with Dance and Be Fit. If you like your dance to bounce, go with Dances of India. If you want a refreshing and fun take on ballroom, Julianne is your girl!

Want to dance? We’re giving away three Dance and Be Fit DVDs, as well as Dances of India. Leave a comment below telling us why you’d like to win and you’ll be entered! Winners will be notified by email. U.S. residents only, please!

—Erin

Disclosure: All DVDs were provided by their respective manufacturer, but in no way is this post or our review of products sponsored, influenced or paid for by any company. We tell it like it is!

The last time we reviewed one of Jackie Warner’s DVDs, we gave it four stars. Four stars! We rarely give anything four stars. (To see our fave DVDs, click here.) So we had high hopes for Personal Training with Jackie: Power Circuit Training, especially after yesterday’s behind-the-scenes interview. And after doing the DVD a few times, I’m gonna call it love. L-O-V-E. This DVD rocks. Jackie really outdid herself.

In the DVD, you get five workout options: 15-Minute Total Body Circuit, 40-Minute Total-Body Circuit, 15-Minute Abs-Only Circuit, 15-Minute Upper-Body Circuit and 15-Minute Lower-Body Circuit. I love having options, as it you to fully customize your workout to your life no matter how much or little time you have. In each option you also get a quick warm-up and always end with a quick stretch.

Although you get your heart rate up with the DVD’s quick pace, it’s definitely a strength-based workout—and an effective one at that. There are a total of nine circuits on the DVD that are featured in the five different workout options: quads, hamstrings, glutes, chest, back, bicep/triceps/shoulders, upper abs, lower abs and obliques. Each circuit is about four minutes long and includes three moves to work the muscle group. You do each move for about a minute, and then, at the end of the circuit, Jackie combines the three moves for a final one-minute “Power Burn.” And, dear Lord, does the Power Burn burn.

There are two fantastic things about the circuits. Number one: They all feature moves that you rarely see in DVDs. It was so refreshing to do a workout DVD that wasn’t the same old crunches and lunges you’ve seen over and over again. From Sissy Squats (squats with your heels up on your weights) to UFCs (drop down to one knee, then the other knee, then up on one knee, up on the other knee—killer!) to Single Leg Jack Knife (opposite hand touches opposite toe while laying on the floor), you’re challenged in new, innovative ways. Number two: Because you never do an exercise for more than one minute, you never get sick of any exercise or feel like it’s too impossible to complete. Don’t get me wrong; the moves are challenging, but you can do anything for a minute, even if you have to modify it.

Which brings me to my next point: instruction. While Jackie’s first DVD was strong, you can tell that she’s much more confident and comfortable in this second DVD. Her instructions are clear, and she’s hella motivating. She’s not perky, but she is encouraging, and she really does make it fun. In the lower-body portions she shows a lot of modifications for beginners. I wish she did this more in the upper-body section, but that’s about my only complaint. (An easy upper-body modification is to do each exercise just one arm at a time or grab lighter weights.) I could have also used a slightly longer warm-up and cool down, but when you’re short on time, I get it. The music in the DVD isn’t fantastic, but it’s pretty good, and it doesn’t really matter because you’re focused on the instruction anywho. Jackie is joined by a two gals and a guy for most of the sections, one of which I recognized from a previous review.

All in all, workout DVDs are a dime a dozen, but this one is definitely a must-have for your collection!

FBG Rating (Out of 5):
Instruction: ★★★★★
Long-Term Likeability: ★★★★★
Music: ★★★★★
Fun Factor: ★★★★★
Meets Expectations: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★★

Fit bottom line: We gave it 5 stars! Need I say more?! BUY IT NOW! —Jenn

Credit: Andres Rueda

In my oh-so-humble professional-ish opinion, one of the best ways for fitness newbies and pros alike to spice up a workout is in DVD format. A good workout DVD should be akin to a good fitness class or personal training session: You’ll learn something new, you’ll sweat, and you’ll be challenged. Plus, if you’re just beginning your fitness journey, videos can be a fabulous way to get started in the privacy of your own home.

As we all know, not all workout videos stack up. We’ve reported on some duds in our reviews, but we’ve also unearthed some fantastic finds . If you know what to look for, you should be able to amass a stellar workout DVD library, always ready to kick your butt at a moment’s notice. Here are five tips on how to pick a good one!

1. Do your research. Don’t go into a local retail store and pick up the first flashy DVD promising a firm rear and flat abs unless you have money to burn and are okay with disappointment. The FBGs are pretty much pros in the DVD review department, so check out our extensive archives. You can even check them out by category, such as yoga or strength. Not all workouts fit in one specific category though, so browse until a few pique your interest. You can even check out our Amazon store; clicking on a DVD will bring up three customer reviews (and many more reviews can be found at Amazon). There will always be extreme reviewers that love or loathe a product, but if you read several, it’s fairly easy to see how a DVD will stack up in your living room.
2. Work at your skill level. You should always try to challenge yourself in your workouts, but getting in over your head can lead to injury and frustration. Luckily, most workouts these days are fantastic about showing variations on moves, from beginner to advanced levels. If this isn’t the case, and something is too challenging or uncomfortable, take it down a notch by making movements smaller or by hitting the pause button. Odds are that you’ll see progress in just a few sessions and will soon make it through the entire workout. Plus, it’s easier to take intensity down a level than to pump up a lame DVD.
3. Try before you buy. Check out your local library for free workout DVD options. Netflix is also affordable and has a huge variety of workouts—some of which you can watch instantly on your TV or computer. Ask trustworthy friends what their faves are, or better yet, organize a DVD swap to spice up your routines.
4. Stick with what you love. If you love an instructor or a specific series (say, Core Fusion), odds are that you’ll like other vids in the series. Likewise, if a trainer annoys you in the warm-up, you probably won’t be tuning in often—unless you get friendly with the mute button.
5. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Contrary to number four, DVDs are an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and try new workouts. Compared to a gym membership or trainer, most videos are a relatively low-cost way to work out, and even if you hate a purchase, you’re out less than $20. They’re a good way to avoid plateaus and a great way to fall in love with a new trend. Embarrassed to take a yoga class? Have Bob Harper show you the ways of a yogi at home. Clueless about dance? Gyrate at home where only your dog will see.

I’m a firm believer in popping in a DVD on days it’s too cold to head outside or make it to the gym. Do you have any tried-and-true tips for choosing a good workout DVD? Ever been pleasantly surprised with a random purchase? —Erin

I love stockings. No, not Leggs. The Christmas kind. In fact, I probably enjoy opening up my stocking more than opening up presents. Stockings are just so cute, and the stuff inside is all small and cute, too. It’s a win-win really. Last week, we gave you the FBG Gift Guide, and today we’re going to give you a bunch of FBG-approved stocking ideas that will not only stuff your stockings but also make your fit friends and family members happy as a Christmas goose.

Enlighten Up

We were offered the opportunity to review this documentary a few months ago and had to say yes. The film basically has a regular non-spiritual dude, Nick Rosen, dive into the yoga hippity-dippity world headfirst. Over the course of just a few months, Nick is immersed in the practice and travels around the world, examining the good, the bad and the ugly of yoga. He meets celebrity yogis (like this and this one), true believers, crazies and world-renowned gurus. The film follows Nick—who’s pretty darn cute yet  sometimes frustrating—as he attempts to find his spiritual side via yoga. I won’t ruin the ending for you, but it’s definitely interesting. And, like I said, Nick is kind of a hottie. It’s the perfect stocking stuffer for your yoga buds—or skeptical friends!

Banglz

Wouldn’t it be awesome if you could burn more cals just walking around or doing errands? That’s exactly why two busy moms dreamed up and created a product (that they sent us to try) to do just that! Banglz are fancied up ankle and wrist weights that look more like a bracelet than a weight and are light enough to wear all day, yet heavy enough to up your burn. They’re not the most fashion-forward bracelets I’ve ever seen, but their usability still makes it a fantastic gift for your friends on the go!

Violet Love

You know how I have a small, oddly shaped head? Well, the creator of Violet Love heard my call (or, you know, read my post) and sent us a few of her new SHE by VL performance line of headbands. I tried the black headband and while it didn’t stay perfectly (again, I’m not sure if ya’ll understand just how freakish of a head shape I apparently have), it did stay better than any other kinds I’ve tried, next to the Bondi. So if you have a small-headed friend or family member who needs help keeping her hair back during workouts, please stuff one of these babies in their stocking. They’ll thank ya!

MeSheeky

I cannot stop saying “MeSheeky.” It’s my catchphrase now. How you feeling, Jenn? “MeSheeky!” Was that concert fun? “Yea, it was MeSheeky!” And then there are times that I throw on one of these cute little MeSheeky skirts for a yoga workout and chant “MeSheeky” repeatedly while I dance around the house. It’s a good warm-up. AND to further the “MeSheeky” word obsession, when you go to their website, it hits you with a full rotating list of fun MeSheeky-tastic words. There are tons of good ones, but my personal fave is “Sheeky Boom Boom.” Go ahead and say it again for good measure. Sheeky Boom Boom. Fun, right?! And the apparel is just as fun as it sounds. (I know because they sent me one to try.) These sustainable, yoga-inspired, lounge-wear pieces (basically skirts you put over leggings) take you from workout to street. The look is inspired by the layering of a dancer’s warm-up clothes, but they’re super flattering and fun to wear. Plus they’re eco-friendly! Perfect for the yogi, dancer or green lady in your life!

iSkin

Does someone in your life have a Nano 5G? (I wish I did. Hint, hint, Santa!) Well, if they do, you might want to consider putting an iSkin in their stocking. The Duo Band Nano G5 Clear Hydro Carbon Poly with Armband is perfect for the active gal or lad in your life. It has an adjustable armband strap with breathable silicone, anti-slip support and antimicrobial protection that keeps bacteria and odor away. Silicone also covers the Nano itself, protecting it from the iPod dangers at the gym: scratches, moisture and bump-da-bumps. The click wheel even has its own protector that keeps it safe and dry. We haven’t tried this one ourselves, but I have a iSkin for my iPod classic, and I simply adore it!

aquaBling

You know those cute little wine charms that are popular these days? Well reader Evie Clercx had the idea to make a healthier version for water! These chic water-bottle accessories are designed, she says, to promote health, eco-conscious living and personal style for women. We’re behind that! These little guys are perfect for running groups, the gym, events or while traveling. And, again, they’re awfully cute. Hide these in your loved one’s stocking, and you’ll never have to worry about wondering whose water bottle is whose ever again! And as a special to FBG readers, aquaBling is offering 20 percent off all orders placed before January 31! All have you have to do is enter coupon code FIT when you order!

EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale

For those in your life who love numbers, organization and counting-counting-counting, give them the EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale. We haven’t tried this one, but EatSmart has a solid reputation for easy-to-use and accurate scales.  This scale is small enough to fit in a stocking (cute, right?!) and even includes a free Calorie Factors book that allows you to calculate calories in a portion for more than 1,000 whole foods. And it has the ability to easily subtract the weight of a plate or a bowl. The scale comes in silver, black chrome, white, white chrome or red, so it’ll fit with any kitchen decor!

FBG Undies

And last but not least, don’t forget about our small items in the FBG store! These hip-hugger undies are playful and the perfect stocking stuffer for the fit bottomed girl in your life. Last year, we had one reader buy one for all of her sisters! And remember, fit bottoms come in all shapes and sizes, so spread the FBG love!

—Jenn

And because we also want to make sure that Santa treats you dear readers well this holiday, comment below and you’ll be entered to win Enlighten Up on DVD, a set of Banglz bracelets, a Violet Love headband or a MeSheeky skirt! Happy holidays from FBG!