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DVDs for workout at home may seem like a good idea but is it really? According to a new study, these DVDs have negative, demotivating language with highly sexualized image that can have an adverse effect on your brain. "The findings showed that imagery in fitness videos may be perpetuating and reinforcing hyper-sexualized and unrealistic body images," said Brad Cardinal, a Kinesiology professor at the Oregon State University, as reported by Health News Line. Apart from that, the language used in these workout DVDs are often very discouraging that can make the physical activity far less impactful. "We don't think the videos are very psychologically safe," said Dr. Cardinal. "There are also questions about some of the exercises, which could lead to injuries and pose a real danger to the user."

For the purpose of the study, the researchers reviewed 10 popular DVDs that are led by the instructors. They evaluated the body image used in the video and the motivational language that the instructors use. The idea was to understand the auditory and visual messages and how it can impact the users of these DVDs. According to Cardinal, a $250 million fitness DVD industry is thriving but still there is no scientific proof to evaluate their safety. This raises concerns about its effectiveness and also the accuracy of the content that is shared through these videos, reported Indian Express. The research team noted that there was only 26.9% times when the instructors used motivational tone. Mostly they said demotivating things like "you should be dying right now," "you better be sweating" and "say hello to your sexy six-pack."

As per the findings, the consumers that use fitness DVDs are urged to be mindful of possible hazards of the product when they are choosing one for their home exercise routine. The findings of the study will be published in the Sociology of Sport Journal, said Hindustan Times