Shaping up with workout videos

By Kristyn Kusek

The world of exercise videos has exploded since the days when Jane Fonda ruled the scene. Today you can get tapes on everything from yoga to bellydancing to step that can help you to get back into shape without having to leave your living room.

When choosing an exercise video, start out slow, says Liz Neporent, board member of the American Council on Exercise: "Regardless of your fitness level before you got pregnant, it's best to start at the beginner level and work your way back rather than risk injury." (Of course, be sure to check with your doctor about how soon you can begin any exercise program following your delivery.)

Here, new tapes that will make fitting fitness into your new mommy routine easier than ever:

Crunch: Fat Burning Yoga
This 45-minute video teaches you basic yoga moves at a faster pace, so you burn calories while relaxing your body and mind. Says new mom Susanne Barkan, "I do the video while my daughter's napping. The quick relaxation segment refreshes me and the ab section has helped me get back into my jeans."

Pilates for Dummies
Celeb moms such as Madonna use Pilates to get back in shape post-baby. This 45-minute video teaches you 18 basic Pilates mat exercises which will tone your whole body, improve flexibility, and help you get better posture.

Tamilee Webb's "I Want that Body"
If you've been wary of strength training because you think it will make you look bulky, this video will change your thinking. Webb teaches you basic muscle-strengthening moves that, when done for just 15 minutes, two times a week, will help you get the arms, abs, and butt, and thighs you want.

Bellydance: Basic Dance
If you're the kind of person that prefers workouts that feel less like exercise, and more like fun, this is for you. This 45-minute tape teaches you basic moves from the ancient art of bellydance that will get your heart rate up and help you burn fat.

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