Think stretching is a waste of time? Don't -- it's an essential aspect of fitness.

You don't have to aspire to become a human pretzel, but regular stretches before and after a workout will not only help keep you going during your sweat session, it will also ward off next-day soreness and prevent injuries.

A mere 10 minutes before and after should do the trick, but if you really want to take your stretching to the next level, consider signing up for regular yoga classes -- yoga will not only provide you with a soothing, retorative full-body stretch, it will also help you build strength and sculpt and tone your muscles.