I noticed my cable company – Time Warner – offers FREE workouts through their On Demand program so I decided to try it out. They offer cardio, core training, aerobics, dance aerobics, etc. and you can set it for as few as 10 minutes and as long as 30. The first class is free and if you can order more for a minimal fee if you find one you really like.
If you choose this workout option, I have to warn you that it may come with an unexpected price tag. My kids all sat on the couch, critiqued my form, and shared encouraging words like, “Wow! Mom your face is bright red,” or “You’re sweating so much. Is that because you’re so old or are you just out of shape?”
I had to make a new rule that if my kids want to stay for the show, they have to pay for admission (i.e. work out with me or get lost).
It’s a great way to sneak in a workout on those days when you don’t have time to hit the gym or you don’t feel like dragging your kiddos along on a bike ride or walk. Does your cable company offer any of these FREE workouts? If not, look for an exercise channel in your cable package and record a few workouts until you find one you like.
For my workout, I bust out my Xbox and Dance Dance Revolution! I don’t have to leave my apartment and no one sees me look like a weirdo! It has a work out mode where you can set it to your weight and then it counts your steps and calculates the calories. It saves your progress every day so you can see how your doing. I’ve recently added holding on to 5lb weights in each hand and I’ve noticed it working on my tummy and arms. My calves are already toned
I like the rule, because the first time my hubby saw me do it, he laughed at how high I jump, so I do my workout after he leaves for work and before I go to work.
Go Cassie! I like your plan for ditching your audience. Is the Xbox and DDR a better workout than the Wii Fit exercise programs?
I don’t know if it is a better workout. I don’t have a Wii (yet) but I already had an xbox and I found the game for $5 at a swapmeet. I got the dance pad at Game Stop for $20 and it is a universal pad so that when I do get a Wii, I can use it with that console as well. DDR appeals to me because since it is a game, its more than just working out. Running in place is just boring to me, and exercise doesn’t give me the instant satisfaction that getting a high score on a game does. Plus, the game keeps telling me how awesome I am, especially when I reach a 100 combo.