exercise question: dvds vs. "written" workouts

AleksD3

So I have an exercise question.

I own a lot of workout dvds, strength training, pilates, yoga, WATP, etc.

I've been reading about lifting free weights at home (plus remembering what I used to do at the gym ages ago) and I'm not sure which way to go.

The dvds, while informational, don't give you time to do all the reps you're supposed to do to build up your body. For example, my trainer (man do I miss him) used to have me do 3 sets of 12 reps for all my upper body exercises to begin with.

The dvds have me do between 8 and 12 reps only. Not 3 sets so the muscle doesn't get "exhausted" if that makes sense.

Same for squats, lunges, etc.

I realize there's no reason to choose just one or the other but I'm trying to find what will work best and help define my body the best way to begin with.

What do you guys do? Any ideas?

Also, I can't afford to rejoin the gym so that's out.

Thoughts?