Collage Video - Fitness Video Heaven
Written: Sep 06 '04 (Updated Sep 07 '04)
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| Full Review |
I've been working out at home to fitness videos for years. I live way too far from a gym, and find that a workout at home is the best way for me to stay fit. The thing with workout videos though, is that of course the workout never changes. So new, fresh workouts are always nice to have in order to stave off getting bored. I have amassed quite a collection, thanks to CollageVideo.com which is absolutely THE BEST source I've ever found for fitness videos.
~ Site Basics
CollageVideo.com offers the widest selection of fitness videos you'll probably ever encounter. Whatever your fitness goals, you'll find something here that's just right for you, from beginner, to intermediate, to very advanced. There are various types and categories to choose from, such as:
- floor and step aerobics
- weight training, toning
- yoga
- ballet
- kickboxing
- interval training
- Pilates
- stability ball
- celebrity fitness videos
- dance
- Stretch
- Specialty (seniors, treadmill, stair or ski machine, stationary bike, kids, back pain, arthritis, pregnancy and more)
Collage Video also offers music, for instance instructor workout music, or walking/running music. In addition, you can find workout accessories here, such as weights, body bars, etc.
Many of the fitness videos offered by Collage Video cannot be found in stores. They have an ACE certified instructor review and help describe each video, so you will know from a professional what it's all about, who it's appropriate for, etc.
One of my favorite features at Collage Video is that you can view a 60-second preview of many of their videos. Just click the link and you can view and hear a preview of the actual video. This is very helpful so that you can hear the music, see the instructor, and get a "feel" for the set, tone, and what the workout will be like. Although the quality of the preview is not that great, you can still get the idea.
~ Site Navigation
First of all, the home page loads quickly. At the left-hand side you can search by title, instructor, or keyword. There are also quick links to the most popular searches. Or, if you're new to the site or fitness videos in general, there is a "Smart Search" which will help you find the most appropriate video for your fitness level and goals. They usually profile the newest videos just out on the home page as well.
All the search features work quickly and easily. Each search list you bring up will show you the Type (aerobics, muscle tone, aerobics and toning, stretch or specialty), the length in minutes of the workout, the Level (beginner, intermediate or advanced), the Video Title, VHS price, and DVD price. You just click the VHS or DVD link to put in your cart. Note that not all workouts are available in VHS and DVD. Some are offered only in VHS, or others only in DVD.
To see more information just click on the Video Title. You'll then see a full description, including a breakdown of the workout's timing, from warm up to cool down. You'll also have the opportunity, on many videos, to view the 60-second preview. The description is very helpful, and there are often short one-sentence reviews by various fitness magazines. You are also told if the video is in stock and ready to ship. The description and information provided for each video is comprehensive and complete, allowing you the opportunity to evaluate before you purchase.
Collage Video also has a link to the profiles of most of the instructors of their videos, should you want more information on them. You have the option to place your choices in your Wish List if you are not yet ready to buy, but want to keep track of titles you are interested in. There is an 800 number to call should you need to speak to someone at Collage Video. You can also request a printed catalog.
I've found the site navigation easy to use and understand, the pages load quickly, and finding what I want has never been a problem.
~ Shipping and Payment Options, Guarantees
CollageVideo.com allows payment via Mastercard, Discover, Visa, and American Express. Your card is not charged until your order is shipped. You can also pay with checks or money orders if you send your order in by postal mail.
Shipping charges are $4.99 for one item, $6.99 for two items, $7.99 for three items, and four or more items $8.99. But if you order four or more items, you also get a $3.00 discount off the entire order. These are the shipping charges for the lower 48 states. Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico these charges will still apply for light-weight items such as videos. Canada and other foreign shipping charges are available to view on the site. Overnight and second day shipping is available for additional charge.
There is a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee - if you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, just return the item for a full refund.
Collage Video also has a Lifetime Guarantee - all VHS or DVD's are guaranteed forever against defects or damage. They will be repaired or replaced, as long as they are still available from the manufacturer.
~ My Experience
I've ordered many, many times from Collage Video. Only once have I received the wrong video in my order, and it was easily and quickly replaced. I did not have to pay for the return shipping for the wrong item. My orders are usually received within 5-7 days via UPS. I have never had a problem with an order taking over 10 days.
At the time you place your online order, you will receive an email verification of the order. In addition, when your order is shipped (usually within 24 hours), you'll get an email notification of shipping with the tracking number. I LOVE having the tracking number, and appreciate online stores that provide this.
You can tell when you order if an item is out of stock or backordered, but they do keep a huge inventory, and rarely has an item I wanted been out of stock.
~ Final Thoughts
Whatever your fitness level and goals, you'll find a huge selection of fitness videos and DVDs awaiting you at Collage Video. What - you've never worked out at home? The price of a few videos is way cheaper than a gym membership, you don't have to drive, you can workout whenever you want....and Collage Video has everything you'll need to keep you motivated. Check them out and see what you think!
Recommended:
Yes
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