Hi C.,
I do almost all my exercising at home (rather than at a gym). I have most of Jennifer Nicole Lee’s DVDs and do like them. They are all about 30 minutes with an optional extra mini-workout (which is just part of a different workout of hers). I like her DVDs because she is a mom of 2 who was overweight and so the “focus” is on moms even though the workouts would be for anyone. Her Total Body Workout is my favorite, but I also like her separate upper and lower body workouts. She is also not as annoying to me as some fitness trainers.
I also recently purchased the 10 Minute Solution: 5 Day Get Fit Mix. So far I like it a lot because I can focus on different things in a 10 minute workout (I don’t have a lot of time with two little ones and work), or I can do several and get in a longer workout. I also found the trainer helpful and straight-forward rather than annoying or trying to create a persona. I also have and use a Denise Austen Boot Camp DVD, which is a good workout and has two 20-minute options and a stretch workout. She is a little more annoying to me just because she is so perky, but the workout is good.
I think all of these only require dumbbells and maybe a stretch band (for the JNL Upper Body). Most of these combine some cardio with strength or have optional strength segments. I enjoy working out with them and my 3-year-old often does them with me. Most of these also allow you to customize your level by having different people doing the workout (except the 10 Minute Solution) so you can follow accordingly. I have also been watching my servings and food groups (was breastfeeding though so eating all the time) and the workouts have helped me lose more than the baby weight and also to tone up better than I was in college. They are all fairly inexpensive (around $10) but you can also check out your local library or Family Video to preview anything they have. Good luck and have fun!!