Sleek, strong and stress-free
If you're tired of pumping and sweating your way to a bikini-buff body, there's another route you can take to get sleek, sexy and swimsuit-ready. This summer, the long, lean look can be yours with a kinder, gentler (but extremely potent) approach that's all the rage in Hollywood. By fusing yoga, Pilates and ballet, fitness authority Karen Voight brings you a total-body workout that promises major results -- fast.
Instead of working body parts separately, this efficient 20-minute workout targets multiple muscle groups with each fluid exercise. The slow, controlled movements train muscles to work in patterns that mimic the motions of real life and build strength, flexibility and muscular balance simultaneously. Your body isn't the only winner; since this workout summons your full concentration, it's also a great stress melter. "You'll gain focus, clarity and perspective," Voight says.
Body on tape
For more integrated approaches to strengthening and lengthening, try these workout videos, available from Collage Video (800-433-6769 or CollageVideo.com).
Karen Voight's Body Reform: Abs & Back (2000) Targets strength and flexibility with Pilates-inspired moves and abdominal toners ($20, 45 minutes)
Breakthru Core Conditioning Pilates (2000) Emphasizes Pilates-style conditioning, complemented by some yoga and classic toning ($10, 48 minutes)
Karen Voight's Core Essentials (1999) A body-sculpting blend of fluid Pilates and ballet-inspired moves, focusing on the abs, back, buttocks, legs and arms. Requires two weighted fitness balls or dumbbells ($20, 42 minutes)
Kari Anderson's Angles, Lines & Curves (1998) A challenging, yet relaxing, program combining yoga-, Pilates-, dance- and sports-inspired moves ($20, 49 minutes)
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