Top 5 Workout DVD's for Weight Loss

Even as a self-proclaimed workout junkie, I still can't get over my germaphobia about using communal workout equipment. There's just something unsavory to me about getting on an elliptical the previous person dripped sweat all over, whether the equipment has been cleaned or not. Over the years, I have tried dozens of workout videos--some effective and some I barely broke a sweat. Here are my top 5 workout videos to get your heart pumping:

1. Tae Bo: Total Body Fat Blaster: Instructed by World Martial Arts Champion Billy Blanks, you can definitely feel the burn with this workout. This workout marries intense toning sessions with sudden bursts of cardio for an effective workout. Note: While this workout is effective, the Billy Bands (resistance bands) are a must!
   
2. Jillian Michaels: No More Trouble Zones: In this great workout, renowned trainer Jillian Michaels (The Biggest Loser) guides you through seven toning circuits, including shoulder & legs, chest & abs, biceps & butt, thighs & triceps, core, upper body & core, and lower body & core. This workout will melt away the fat from your trouble areas.
   
3. Jari Love’s Get Extremely Ripped 1000: Claiming to burn 1000 calories in one hour, this challenging workout focuses on interval training, alternating between three minutes of cardio followed by one to two minutes of strength training.
   
4. Element: Ballet Conditioning: This video focuses on getting you a long, lean dancer’s silhouette through challenging ballet conditioning movements. While I wasn’t exactly dripping sweat, my legs definitely felt for days.
   
5. Zumba Fitness Total Body Transformation System DVD Set: Zumba is great for spicing up your cardio routine. Not only is it fun, but it’s very effective as well. This set includes 4 DVD’s comprised of six workouts that will shape your body from head to toe.