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Just follow the spinning disc to better fitness

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If you can’t get to the gym, you might want to check out a new crop of challenging workout DVDs and CDs that rev up your heart rate by incorporating running, cycling, yoga and martial arts.

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Asian flavor

Budokon: Workout that combines yoga and martial arts.

Likes: Challenging, safe and skill-building aerobic workout. Created by Hollywood trainer Cameron Shayne, who holds a black belt in karate, the 40-minute Budokon workout puts you through the paces, from warm-up to recovery after a strenuous workout. It includes Astanga yoga (for warm-up and flexibility), tae kwon do (for strength and cardio) and meditation (for cool-down). No gear required.

Dislikes: None

Price: $14.98. (800) 869-3603; www.gaiam.com.

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Work up a sweat

Johnny G Live: Challenging stationary cycling workout led by Spinning creator Johnny G.

Likes: Super cardio workout. Pulsating music and uplifting instruction that leaves you dripping with sweat after 40 minutes. Legendary motivator Johnny G leads you up imaginary mountains and encourages you to take it to the limit. You’ll need a Spinning bike, a stationary bike or a regular bike set on a training stand.

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Dislikes: None

Price: $24.95 each, or $89 for four different Spinning DVDs. (800) 847-7746; www.spinningtv.com.

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A racier treadmill

Walkvest Guided Walking Workout: Running/walking interval treadmill CD workout from Crunch Fitness clubs.

Likes: Adds some variation and motivation to what can be boring treadmill workouts. TreadRide inventor Debbie Rocker keeps it fresh by instructing you to alternately walk, run and raise the treadmill’s incline -- or to jump off and do some push-ups. The workout can be done with or without a weighted vest.

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Dislikes: None

Price: $14.95. (877) 925-8378; www.walkvest.com.

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For firm resolve

TransFIRMer Supercharged Sculpting Workout: A workout that combines aerobics and hand weights.

Likes: Combining resistance training with a cardio workout is a good idea because it helps to strengthen the heart, tone muscles and boost metabolism. The 30-minute Supercharged Sculpting DVD is one of five; along with an adjustable-slant step, they all are included in the TransFIRMer package.

Dislikes: None

Price: $59.90. (800) THE-FIRM; www.firmdirect.com.

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