[kelly315]

I don't have access to a gym right now, but I do have my elliptical for cardio and a few other things (hand weights, yoga ball). I'm looking for something to *somewhat* replace weight lifting- to build muscle, firm, and tone (and hopefully boost my metabolism!).

Any recommendations of videos/books/etc? Thanks!

[nelie]

For books, I'd recommend "The New Rules of Lifting for Women".

If you prefer videos, I heard Jari Love is good.

Also, a TRX system is pretty good, that is what my husband uses but that is a bit more of an investment than the cost of a couple videos or a book.

[spetty]

This might not replace weight lifting, but I like the short videos (about 10 min each) from Special K (specialk.com/video_popup.html)

I especially like the Rapid Results Pilates video, but the Slim and Tone includes hand weights.

[AnnieDrews]

You might try the Leslie Sansone DVDs. I love them!!

[megmix]

I've been doing 'Exhale: Core Fusion Body Sculpt' for a short time. It concentrates on different body areas at a time. Each workout lasts ten minutes for a total workout of 50 minutes. I find it a bit challenging since I'm not very strong and haven't been able to do the entire workout in one go. I've been concentrating on an area a day instead. I find it much easier this way. You can preview it on Amazon to see if it suits your fancy.

I don't have this DVD but I really want to try it, it's 'Element: Ballet Conditioning'. It has a lot of positive reviews on Amazon and seems like it would be fun and challenging to do. It appears to be lower body intensive.

As for books, how could I forget?! There's 'The Women's Health Big Book of Exercises'. The muscle groups each take up their own chapter and the exercises are demonstrated with color photographs. There's also a chapter on workouts in case you can't figure what to do for yourself. It's very helpful.