| When people discover a form of exercise that works for them, working out becomes less work and more fun. | | | | | Regular physical activity keeps our minds sharp, gives us a handle on stress and also can be fun. According to personal trainer and avid distance runner Brian Zelina, when people discover a form of exercise that works for them, working out becomes less work and more fun. "There are so many different ways to stay in shape," Zelina says. "You just need to find something that feels good to you." |  | Yoga
How It Works "Yoga" is a deceptively simple term, considering that there are many types of yoga and various schools of thought on the subject. Hatha yoga, for example, emphasizes concentration, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Ashtanga yoga, on the other hand, requires constant motion and can be an invigorating cardio workout. All forms of yoga, however, have at least one thing in common: the art of balance. In most yoga sessions, each movement is balanced by an equal and opposite movement. For instance, a forward bend might be balanced by a backward bend; a move on the right side of your body will be repeated on the left, and so on.
Why It's Fun Yoga may not be for everyone, but for those who enjoy it, there's nothing like it. Amy Corrill, 46, has been practicing Hatha yoga on a daily basis for five years. "It's like a mini-vacation," she says. "I highly recommend it. It's addictive — in a good way."
Circuit Training
How It Works Circuit training is a popular form of strength training that utilizes a group of six to 10 exercises (such as squats, bench presses, dumbbell curls, etc.) that are completed in sequence. Each exercise lasts for only a few minutes. The idea is to perform a specified number of repetitions and then, after a brief rest period, move on to the next exercise.
Why It's Fun Circuit training often appeals to busy people. It's an efficient, fast-paced form of strength training that works all of the major muscle groups, so you get the most benefit out of your time.
Stability Ball
How It Works Also known as Swiss balls, stability balls are simply large, vinyl balls on which you can perform a number of strengthening exercises. By learning to balance your weight on the ball, your back, stomach and trunk areas are developed.
Why It's Fun There’s nothing quite like a stability-ball workout. It's easy to learn basic moves, and you don't need a lot of space or special equipment. Using a stability-ball video can teach you more about the range of exercises.
Pilates
How It Works Pilates is a series of stretches and postures, performed either on a mat or with a reformer — a device made of cables, pulleys, springs and sliding boards that improves posture, core strength and flexibility. Pilates exercises develop pelvic stability and abdominal control.
Why It's Fun Originally designed for dancers who wanted to build strength without adding bulk, Pilates has become a popular form of exercise for anyone who wants to develop lean muscle. Once you learn the basics, frequent practice of Pilates helps cultivate concentration and attention.
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