When it comes to fitness and exercise books and videos, the world is your oyster.  All flavors and styles of training instructional materials compete for your attention in the fitness “free market of ideas”…and that’s just how the whole thing works: buyers evaluate these training tools by what is inside (or at least, they should) and the old maxim “you can’t judge a book by its cover” applies to fitness books and videos especially.  Users judge these tools by how well they help individuals actually work new and exciting ideas into a fitness routine.

Whether it’s the “amped up” Taebo discs of Billy Blanks, brand-name videos from former “Biggest Loser” coaches, or the host of yoga and pilates training books and videos, inspirational materials often fly off the shelves.  But which of these great offerings will be the best bang for your buck?

Experts have highlighted some aspects to consider when buying your exercise training guides.  The first and primary one is to buy according to “where you are at” in terms of fitness and training levels, any special limitations, and a realistic goal for practicing a specific set of activities.  “Pitching” yourself beyond where your stamina can take you will result in a pile of unused books and videos.

Some also recommend ordering your books and videos into training categories, from cardio to strength or agility training.  For yoga and pilates, you’ll be using a different criteria: order your materials by the yoga or pilates ‘philosophy’ of the trainer, or by length, style, or rapidity.

Length is another aspect of video training: choosing a disc that drags on interminably will have an adverse impact.  

And of course, there’s another “proof of the pudding” with fitness books and DVDs: the worth of these items is equal to the worth of the ideas and legitimacy of the source.  You can approach evaluating a fitness coach in varied ways.  Read the personal philosophies and think about whether you agree.  Check out any credentials including specific training credits.  And look for “longevity” – a steady history of working in varied roles in a fitness environment.  And look out for typos, a sure sign that something is less than thoroughly produced!

With a book, another good rule of thumb is to flip directly to the glossary or index in the back of the book, so see what the material covers.  With just a glance, you can tell if the book will address specific muscle groups or a variety of exercises.  Another important place is the jacket where the writer’s creds will be prominently displayed.  

When you have selected your materials, go in with a clear head and a willing heart.  Giving your training guides a chance to work is critical, and it’s not always the fault of the makers that so many end up sitting in a corner or a box in the basement.  An initial burst of energy and adherence to a book or video can reap huge benefits later on as fitness enthusiasts get over their “hump” and go on to build strength, lung power, dexterity and much more with the help of the experts via books and videos!

Justin Stoltz.