Fitness DVDs By Reality Stars – Are They Actually Good Role Models?
Recent figures show that the fitness DVD industry generates a whopping $300 million in the US every year; that's a lot of cash for the celebs that have simply whipped their butts into shape.
It does seem a little crazy but, when you think about it, it's perfectly plausible. Buying a DVD is cheaper than forking out for a monthly gym membership, and no one has to see the hot mess you become when you get your sweat on.
Here in the UK, it seems to be the natural career progression of the reality star – get up to questionable antics on TV, moan about your weight, start working out (in front of the paps, obvs), release DVD in the New Year and let the results speak for themselves.
Whether it's Geordie Shore's Vicky Pattison or Gogglebox's Scarlett Moffatt, there's no doubt these gorgeous gals are looking fab - but is all really as it seems?
Short answer - no…
But Why Not?
The first and most important thing to remember about these “remarkable” transformations is that these stars are being paid to change themselves. Can you think of any better incentive than that?
Of course they're going to work hard and stick to their carefully structured meal plans when a large pay packet is offered – wouldn't you?
Furthermore, it's highly unlikely the workouts they will be guiding you through on their shiny DVD is what they're actually up to.
Rather, they'll have a team of professionals manoeuvring them. From personal trainers to nutritionists, they will be told what to do, when to do it and how hard to push themselves literally all of the time.
They'll also never have to lift a finger in the kitchen with personal chefs freshly preparing meals to the nutritionists exacting standards with the just the right balance of carbs, fats and protein to keep their calorie intake in check.
Above all else, these celebs have the time to dedicate to their military strict training regime.
You try living like that for 12 weeks whilst working a 9-5, running around after kids and trying your best to feel human after a commute from hell.
Another big issue with fad fitness DVDs is exercise safety.
Who are these stars to be telling you the correct technique for, say, a squat or a lunge? Of course they can advise you, but without someone there to monitor your technique, how will you know if you're doing it right or wrong?
This opens you up to risk of injury, which can lead to demotivation and that DVD being hurled into the bin.
Finally, these stars could very well be telling porkies – we're not saying they ARE, we're just saying they might be. It wouldn't be the first time a celeb has lied about their incredible lifestyle overhaul resulting in cut abs.
Ok, yes, they probably have done a few of the routines in the DVDs (mainly for videoing purposes), but that won't be all they've done to shed the pounds.
They will likely have been doing lots of other workouts and cardio, not to mention taking extreme measures with their diet to get in shape for deadline.
And, in some cases, some celebs may even resort to the surgeon's knife…
Sure, beasting yourself for 12 weeks is 100% doable – lots of people do it, but living like that long term is not sustainable.
Is It All Worthless?
At the end of the day, whilst fitness DVDs is a large money making business, there are definitely pluses to it.
By using their star power, the celebs that release these DVDs are encouraging people to take a look at their own lifestyles. They inspire people to get exercising and eat healthier, which is never a bad thing.
If the purchase of a DVD can help someone transform his or her life – then surely that's nothing but a good thing.
However, it's best to take their advice with a big dose of salt and remember that reality TV is still fake TV. If it seems too good to be true – then it most likely is, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a whirl.
Everyone has to start somewhere!