That's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.com/media/feedlogo.gifThat's Fithttp://www.thatsfit.comen-usCopyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Yoga Kids Are Flexible and Stronghttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-kids-are-flexible-and-strong-health-benefits/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-kids-are-flexible-and-strong-health-benefits/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-kids-are-flexible-and-strong-health-benefits/#commentsFiled under:

More than 15 million Americans participate in yoga. Most of them are over 18-years old, but the benefits of yoga for kids are the same ones enjoyed by adults. These yoga kids can participate in this non-competitive activity and improve their muscle strength, flexibility and balance. Kids, who studies show are experiencing more and more stress, will be able to relieve stress through yoga, too. Studies have shown that yoga can reduce anxiety and depression, which is great for kids who fret about tests and other problems.

Kids who do yoga will not only improve their strength and flexibility, but their young minds learn to concentrate better, too. There are also reports that they build self-confidence and self-control.

In a study of inner-city "yoga kids" in kindergarten through eighth grade, researchers found a 20 percent increase in students who felt good about themselves and a six percent increase in classroom discipline scores. There was also a statistically significant link between yoga participation and better grades.

With these benefits and the rising trend toward teenage obesity, why haven't you enrolled your son or daughter in a yoga class yet?


More Yoga Terms Defined from That's Fit:
Ashtanga Yoga
Flow Yoga
Hatha Yoga
Kundalini Yoga
Power Yoga
Prenatal Yoga
Strengthen With Yoga
 Vinyasa Yoga
Yoga Benefits
Yoga Journal
Yoga for Weight Loss

Continue reading Yoga Kids Are Flexible and Strong

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]]>childrenFlow yogahatha yogahealthkidskundalinipower yogavinyasa yogayogayoga benefitsMelissa JoulwanTue, 24 Nov 2009 18:15:00 ESTSnowboard Basics: A Winter Sports Guide for Beginnershttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/snowboard-basics-calories-burned-equipment-avoid-injuries/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/snowboard-basics-calories-burned-equipment-avoid-injuries/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/snowboard-basics-calories-burned-equipment-avoid-injuries/#commentsFiled under: ,

Snowboarding is an extreme sport that's been on the rise in popularity over the past few years. The sport's origin was inspired by combining the concepts of skateboarding, surfing and skiing. It officially became a winter sport at the Olympics in 1998. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), snowboarding first became to the United States in 1965 when Sherman Poppen bolted two skis together, and it became popular when commercial snowboards became available in the late 1970s and now snowboarding is the fastest growing winter sport in the United States.

Snowboarding for Beginners
Your legs should be in relatively good shape before you attempt this sport. A workout consisting of leg presses, lunges, calf raises and squats will isolate and build the leg muscles and hamstrings to prep you before you get on your snowboard. Plus, a snowboarder's body should be flexible in order to twist and turn without getting injuries. Stretching is key and practicing yoga is also helpful to limber up that body. Of course, walking, swimming and running will strengthen one's cardio abilities and endurance.

How Many Calories Does a Snowboarder Burn?
Approximately 10 minutes of snowboarding burns 88.9 calories for a 140-pound person. That's compared to 77.79 calories burned during a ski-machine workout.

What's My Risk of Injury in Snowboarding Versus Skiing?
Although people are susceptible to injuries in both skiing and snowboarding, knee injuries are most common with skiing as are broken bones, while snowboarding injuries are most common in the ankles, wrists and upper body, according to the AAFP. Ski helmets are commonly worn by skiers, while snowboarders shouldn't be without wrist guards in addition to helmets.

What Equipment Will I Need for Snowboarding? How Expensive Is it?
In addition to protective gear, (wrist guards for $8 and a snowboarding helmet for $50 to $60) a snowboarder should have boots (approximately $175 - $250), snowboards with bindings (approximately $300 - $400) and proper clothing such as a base layer, warm insulation, and waterproof outer layer. Plus, goggles (approximately $60 - $100) are essential on bright days to prevent snow blindness. Another option? Most snowboarding resorts offer rentals.

Are you worried that you'll get out of shape this winter? Don't be. Instead, follow these tips to avoid winter weight gain.

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]]>caloriesequipmentinjuryskiskiingskiissnowboardsnowboardingwinterwinter sportsWinterSportsVicki SalemiTue, 24 Nov 2009 17:15:00 ESTSkiing for Fitness and to Burn Calories: A Winter Sports Guidehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skiing-for-fitness-burn-calories-a-winter-sports-guide-beginner/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skiing-for-fitness-burn-calories-a-winter-sports-guide-beginner/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skiing-for-fitness-burn-calories-a-winter-sports-guide-beginner/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cross-country and downhill skiing are two of the best winter sports for overall fitness. Before you hit the slopes, it helps to know the difference and the benefits (in terms of overall fitness and calorie burning) of both so you can choose which type of skiing is right for you.

Do Downhill Skiing and Cross Country Skiing Provide a Good Workout?
Skiing is an effective cardiovascular and strength-building workout. It primarily exercises your lower body, but your core and upper body will benefit as well. Downhill skiing puts you in a semi-squat position most of the time which relies heavily on the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and gluteal muscles. Because of the lateral motion involved, the abductor and adductor muscles are also used. Cross-country skiing uses the lower body muscles too, but also emphasizes the shoulders, arms and back. Both rely on the core for significant balance and stability.

How Many Calories Will I Burn While Skiing?
Not only is skiing a great workout, you will burn calories while exercising. One hour of downhill skiing can burn 450 to 600 calories for an average 165-pound person, whereas cross-country can burn 600 to 675 calories (which is equivalent to running five miles or an hour of lap swimming). Both forms of skiing also build balance, coordination and flexibility.

What Is the Risk of Injury While Skiing?
While falling is pretty much a given during either type of skiing, downhill skiing is considered more dangerous. Treacherous snow, steep trails and ice can cause even the most experienced skier to get injured. Falls or collisions with trees or other skiers can lead to pulled muscles, broken bones and even head trauma. While helmets are not required, they are a good idea and can protect you from possible brain injury or even death. The dangers of cross-country skiing may not be high-impact like downhill, but falling over rocks, sliding on ice or becoming entangled with another skier are always possibilities. Both forms of skiing also offer the potential for frostbite and hypothermia.

What Equipment Will I Need for Skiing? How Expensive Is it?
Ski gear can seem complicated, but aside from warm winter clothing, there are just three pieces of equipment you need: boots, skis and goggles. Because the equipment is notoriously expensive, try renting it first. This will allow you to find what makes and models fit you best. Skis come in many different sizes. For downhill, generally the less experienced the skier, the shorter the ski length. Skip the poles if you are a beginner skiier -- many instructors now recommend that you learn the sport without poles, since these can become a "crutch." For cross-country, skis are typically lighter and narrower and poles are required. Skis can range from $300 to $3,000, depending on the quality, and boots average $250 to $500.

When's a Good Age to Start Skiing? What Fitness Level Is Required to Skii?
While skiers can begin at any age, it is helpful to be in good physical shape. Having strong, flexible muscles throughout the body will help you maintain proper form, stay in control on the snow and avoid injury. Strong lower body muscles will help support the forward movement of cross-country and the downward and side-to-side movements of downhill skiing. A strong core will help maintain balance, and a strong upper body will help cross-country skiers propel themselves forward.

More on Winter Sports for Fitness and to Burn Calories:

Skating Basics

Snowboarding for Beginners

Deborah Dunham is a competitive runner, 10-time marathoner, four-time Boston qualifier, triathlete, certified RRCA Running Coach and ACE Personal Trainer.

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]]>cross country skiingCrossCountrySkiingdownhill skiingskiskiingsportwinterwinter sportsDeborah DunhamTue, 24 Nov 2009 17:15:00 ESTSkating Basics: Burn Calories With This Winter Exercisehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skating-exercise-burn-calories-on-ice/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skating-exercise-burn-calories-on-ice/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/skating-exercise-burn-calories-on-ice/#commentsFiled under: ,

There are several types of ice skating, including specialized sports like figure skating, hockey and speed skating. Skating can be done either outdoors on a level patch of ice -- like a pond -- or indoors at a skating rink. To start skating, you'll need ice skates and warm clothing, including gloves and a hat.

Basic skating can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels, but a good sense of balance and coordination will make the sport easier. Initially, the ice can be difficult to maneuver on. Most people take an introductory skating class or attempt skating for the first time with a friend who is comfortable on the ice.

The effectiveness of skating as a workout depends on the type of skating you do. For instance, 30 minutes of light-effort skating will burn around 195 calories, while an hour of speed skating can burn up to 950 calories. When skating, it's important to avoid an upright position. Instead, your knees should be slightly bent. For this reason, skating is an excellent workout for the thigh muscles. Once a skater is comfortable on the ice and can pick up speed, skating can be an effective aerobic exercise.

A pair of skates can cost between $50 and $150, though a pair of used skates can be purchased for less. Also, if you're new to skating and would rather test it before purchasing too much equipment, many rinks offer skate rentals.

Don't worry about battling the bulge when it's cold outside. These tips can help you avoid gaining weight during winter even after the temperature drops.

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]]>figure skatingFigureSkatinghocket skatingHocketSkatinghockeyice skatingIceSkatingskateskatersskatesskatingskating workoutSkatingWorkoutspeed skatingSpeedSkatingsportthigh musclesThighMuscleswinterwinter sportsWinterSportsMartha EdwardsTue, 24 Nov 2009 16:15:00 ESTShould Yoga Qualify as an Olympic Sport?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-olympic-sport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-olympic-sport/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/yoga-olympic-sport/#commentsFiled under:

It would feel very weird to me if after a series of sun salutations my yoga instructor looked around and said, "And the winner is Holly! Perfect form, Holly!" Yoga is something I do to unwind, relieve stress, become more flexible - and above all, not be judged. But now Rajashree and Bikram Choudhury, the couple who created a style of yoga known as Bikram, are trying to qualify yoga as an Olympic sport. "It's far away. A lot of work needs to be done before we get into it, but this is our dream," Mrs. Choudhury told The New York Times.

Isn't yoga based on a philosophy emphasizing being uncompetitive? "Its initial intention was to be an inward experience, a path to enlightenment. Competitive yoga takes this spiritual element away," said April Martucci, a Manhattan-based yoga instructor. "I also think once you present it as a sport, less people will do it because they'll feel intimidated, and say, 'I could never do that.'" Tom Larkin, owner of Sanctuary for Yoga, Body and Spirit in Nashville, Tennessee said this Olympic quest isn't being taken seriously by many yoga enthusiasts. "Most of our students and fellow teachers find it to be completely ridiculous," he said.

I'm definitely in Martucci's camp. But not all yoga practitioners agree. "I think it could get the attention of all sorts of people who might not necessarily be drawn to traditional yoga, like young adults who want a physical outlet but aren't into conventional sports, or those that tend to be bookish. It could also attract people who previously viewed yoga as being just for wimps and nerds," said Paula Heitzner of Nyack, New York, who's been teaching classes that incorporate her own unique blend of yoga styles for 40 years.

Continue reading Should Yoga Qualify as an Olympic Sport?

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]]>exercisefitnessolympicsyogaHolly St. LiferTue, 24 Nov 2009 14:00:00 ESTTop Off With Agilityhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/gain-agility-avoid-injury/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/gain-agility-avoid-injury/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/gain-agility-avoid-injury/#commentsFiled under:

You may be first in class in cardio and weights, but what about agility? Training for the Turkey Trot, hanging out with an elliptical, and lifting yourself silly will definitely build your body, but you need to transfer these heart and muscle gains to the specific movements inherent in outdoor sports you do love -- snow skiing, tennis or even chasing the dog.

If you don't break up your love affair with forward-plane cardio and the same lifting regime, you're just another weekend-jock trading former excellence for a sub-par performance. You're also at greater risk for injury when the annual ski trip comes round.

Outside Magazine's "Four Steps to Peak Agility" re-focuses your fitness on two critical, but oft-forgotten skills -- agility and coordination. First, you must be willing to move laterally. Then prepare your knees, before mixing in agility exercises. Finally, learn how to get your mind and body working together so when you lose your weekend warrior balance, and you will, the body will respond in agile kind instead of tearing in two.

Continue reading Top Off With Agility

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]]>agilitydeclerating lungeDecleratingLungeFour Steps to Peak AgilityFourStepsToPeakAgilityOutside MagazineOutsideMagazineproprioceptionBev SklarTue, 24 Nov 2009 11:00:00 ESTBuilding Muscles: The Importance of Proteinhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/building-muscles-the-importance-of-protein/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/building-muscles-the-importance-of-protein/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/24/building-muscles-the-importance-of-protein/#commentsFiled under:

Want to build muscle? It's all about how much protein you're eating.

Continue reading Building Muscles: The Importance of Protein

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]]>daily-fit-tipmusclesproteinMartha EdwardsTue, 24 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESTFoam Roller Exercises: Reduce Cellulite, Strengthen Your Core and Morehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/foam-roller-exercises-reduce-cellulite-core-abdominal-strength/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/foam-roller-exercises-reduce-cellulite-core-abdominal-strength/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/foam-roller-exercises-reduce-cellulite-core-abdominal-strength/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Photo: Ryan Forbes Photography


Foam roller classes are appearing on health club schedules, and personal trainers are toting them to client's homes to use as an integral part of training and stretching. If you've ever rolled an achy back over a tennis ball, you're familiar with the intense feeling, but this exercise tool has a wider, more comfortable surface with give.

"Rolling your legs, back and other large muscle groups before biking or running is a great warm-up prior to cardio because you increase oxygen flow to working muscles," said Hollywood trainer Ashley Borden, who has trained Natasha Bedingfield and Mandy Moore, among other A-listers. Borden recommends all her clients roll out for 15 to 20 minutes three days a week in addition to performing consistent cardio and strength training. Here are three ways that using the foam roller boosts your body:

Anti-Cellulite Fix. The foam roller minimizes the appearance of cellulite because it works like endermologie, a very deep massage that breaks up interwoven fat fibers and rushes oxygenated blood to afflicted areas, said Borden. "Rolling out loosens and opens your muscle fascia and causes more nutrient-rich blood to move through those fibers, which breaks up fatty tissues," Borden said. "As connective tissues are stretched, circulation improves and the body expels toxins and abnormal fluid retention."
What to Roll: Lie sideways to roll inner and outer thighs, hips and buttocks.

Continue reading Foam Roller Exercises: Reduce Cellulite, Strengthen Your Core and More

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]]>celluliteexerciseexercise equipmentExerciseEquipmentexercisingfoam rollerfoam rollersFoamRollerFoamRollersNicole Dorsey-StraffMon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESTYoga: Is It For You?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/yoga-is-it-for-you/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/yoga-is-it-for-you/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/23/yoga-is-it-for-you/#commentsFiled under:

Whether you're looking to sculpt your bod or relieve stress, yoga may be the exercise for you.

Continue reading Yoga: Is It For You?

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]]>daily-fit-tipyogaMartha EdwardsMon, 23 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESTCheesy Workout Video Round-uphttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/cheesy-workout-video-round-up/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/cheesy-workout-video-round-up/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/cheesy-workout-video-round-up/#commentsFiled under:

Cheesy workout videos abound on the Internet. Aerobics instructors and jazzercise devotees back in the 80s had no idea how much joy their perfectly feathered hair, matching leotards and corny commentary would bring to us in the future! At That's Fit, we're rounding up a few of our favorite funny fitness videos. Some are the real deal, while others are purposely playful, but no matter what, they're sure to bring a smile to your face. If you have a favorite, be sure to share!

This week, our focus is on some amazing aerobics competitions. Seriously, where can we buy tickets?

San Francisco Bay Club on The Crystal Light National Aerobic Championship

The 1987 Crystal Light National Aerobic Championship
This video hits all the marks of a cheesy workout video. Awesome costumes? Check. Overly-enthusiastic attitude? Check. Hysterical (but perfectly performed) choreography? Oh, honey, you know it. As an added bonus, there are even leg warmers. Also, who knew doing "The Robot" counted as exercise?

3rd Kamikaze Czech Aerobic Open

Czech Aerobic Open 2008
Great aerobic videos don't have to go retro -- this is from just last year, and proves that the aerobics is alive and well in other parts of the world. We're just hoping our step instructor doesn't get any ideas.

1995 Aerobic Competition

Mixed Pairs Aerobic Competition, 1995
This gem features a male/female pair doing some impressive (and, according to the commentators, "innovative") maneuvers. In fact, once you get past the matching outfits (is that a tiger print?) and slouch socks, listening to the commentators is almost as much fun as watching the clip!

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]]>aerobicscheesy fitness videosCheesyFitnessVideosfunny fitness videosFunnyFitnessVideosvideoKristen SeymourFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:00:00 ESTMen's Over-40 Holiday Workouthttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/mens-over-40-holiday-workout/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/mens-over-40-holiday-workout/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/20/mens-over-40-holiday-workout/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If nothing else, the holidays are fraught with stay-in-shape obstacles. All those days off, family dinners and work parties can make it close to impossible to maintain your post-40 battle against belly fat and man boobs. The solution: This quick, do anywhere, high-intensity circuit exclusively created for That's Fit by Mark Stallman, a personal trainer at Chelsea Sportscenter in New York City. "Do it at the gym, in your den, on the road in your hotel room - just do it," said Stallman. Aim for three times a week to help you maintain testosterone levels, build muscle and bone density, stay loose and keep your engine humming at high all season long.

You'll need: A pair of 10-25-pound dumbbells and a jump rope.

The goal is to complete the circuit with no rests in between. Except for the planks, do 12-15 reps of each move. If you need to take a breather, try to keep it to no more than 30 seconds so your heart rate stays elevated. Then do it two or three more times; whatever you can finish in 30 minutes. Take no more than one minute in between rounds.

Continue reading Men's Over-40 Holiday Workout

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]]>anti-agingcircuit trainingfit-after-40holiday weight lossMensFitnessworkoutHolly St. LiferFri, 20 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESTGender Questioned Caster Semenya Gets to Keep Gold Medalhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/gender-questioned-caster-semenya-gets-to-keep-gold-medal/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/gender-questioned-caster-semenya-gets-to-keep-gold-medal/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/gender-questioned-caster-semenya-gets-to-keep-gold-medal/#commentsFiled under:

"Is she really a she?" We all remember how that question was widely debated after South African runner, Caster Semenya, won the gold in the women's 800-meters at the World Athletics Championships in Berlin in August. The rumors that started because some thought the athlete looked -- and ran, more like a man, subsequently put the gold medal in jeopardy. But Semenya's native sports ministry just announced that, yes indeed, she will be able to keep the medal.

In a statement on their web site, the South African Ministry of Sports and Recreation stated, "Because Caster has been found to be innocent of any wrong, she will retain her gold medal, retain her title of 800m World Champion and retain her prize money."

The ministry asked people to respect their decision. "We have also agreed with the IAAF that whatever scientific tests were conducted legally within the IAAF regulations will be treated as a confidential matter between patient and doctor. As such there will be no public announcement of what the panel of scientists has found. We urge all South Africans and other people to respect this professional ethical and moral way of doing things."

Continue reading Gender Questioned Caster Semenya Gets to Keep Gold Medal

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]]>800 metersCaster Semenyagendergenetic testingrunningsemenyasouth africaworld championshipsDeborah DunhamThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:00:00 ESTShare Your Proudest Fitness Momentshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/personal-fitness-accomplishments/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/personal-fitness-accomplishments/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/personal-fitness-accomplishments/#commentsFiled under: ,

woman in big pants
Photo: Getty Images
Did you just train for -- and compete in -- your first 5K, 10K, marathon, triathlon or other fitness feat? We want to share your story with the world! Let us know why you decided to train, how you did it and what it felt like to cross that (mental or physical) finish line. Send us an e-mail at successstories [AT] thatsfit [DOT] com.

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]]>10k5kmarathonracerunrunningswimswimmingtriathlonThat's Fit EditorsThu, 19 Nov 2009 15:30:00 ESTProForm Elliptical: Cardio Machines for Homehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/proform-elliptical-cardio-machines-home-gym/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/proform-elliptical-cardio-machines-home-gym/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/proform-elliptical-cardio-machines-home-gym/#commentsFiled under: ,

A ProForm elliptical machine might be perfect if you're looking for an impact-free cardiovascular workout. The cross-training machine is known for its pedals that have comfortable foot placement to keep your legs in constant motion. You'll also get an upper-body workout from the back-and-forth motion of the arm handles.

Although there are a few different models such as the 850 SpaceSaver, the iSeries 785F and the Crosswalk 8.0, they all fall within the same category of ProForm ellipticals.

The 850 SpaceSaver Proform Elliptical has a variety of workouts ranging from six personal trainer workouts to two heartrate workouts. Resistance and stride length can be altered to provide a slightly different workout. On this particular machine there are 10 different intensity levels to ramp up that heartrate. This particular model may be folded into storage when you're not using it, making it a great option for those without a lot of space.

The iSeries785F Proform elliptical has 14 personal trainer workouts and six weight-loss workouts. By changing the power intensity ramp, you can target your glutes, quads and calves. There is also a built-in compatible music port for iPods.

The ProForm Crosswalk 8.0 takes up half the space of the standard elliptical and has 20 built-in workouts to keep you entertained.

Prices range from approximately $599 to $999 for a new ProForm elliptical machine. These elliptical machines have been rated as light duty machines for the casual user.

Don't think you can stay motivated to workout on your own? Check out our weight-loss success stories.

If you're trying to create the perfect home gym, check out our information on Proform treadmills and other elliptical machines.

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]]>cardioCardiovascular workoutellipticalellipticalsequipmenthome gymproductProForm Ellipticalupper body workoutworkoutVicki SalemiThu, 19 Nov 2009 15:15:00 ESTXtreme Cardio Dancehttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/xtreme-cardio-dance-review/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/xtreme-cardio-dance-review/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/xtreme-cardio-dance-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Xtreme Cardio Dance

Photo: XTreme Cardio Dance


Sometimes, context is everything. My indoctrination into the world of Xtreme Cardio happened on a cold and rainy New York morning. Jaana Kunitz, the program's creator, was in town and had set up a special workout session to familiarize grumpy, desk-bound journalists like me with her own brand of "sexy, feminine" dance workout.

Kunitz, herself an award-winning dancer, has lately been making her mark behind the scenes training pros on FOX's "So You Think You Can Dance" and ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." She co-created the Core Rhythms exercise program, but Xtreme Cardio Dance is her first solo exercise franchise. A boxed set of four fitness DVDs, each promises an experience geared around a dance style: Hip-Hop, Disco, Latin Cardio -- and the ominously titled "Sexy Sculpt."

It's tough to think of a less ready-to-be-sexy crowd than the bleary-eyed assortment of writers and editors assembled for this event. (I also think that a tactical error may have been made in putting the refreshment table in the same room as the class.) So I'm going to give Kunitz major points for effort here. Also above-and-beyond were the moves themselves. They were driven and targeted, for one thing. Even between dance interludes she had us moving our lower bodies forward and back to the music to keep our core working.

Continue reading Xtreme Cardio Dance

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]]>aerobicsballetdance workoutDanceWorkoutdancing with the starsDancingWithTheStarsJaana KunitzJaanaKunitzso you think you can danceSoYouThinkYouCanDancewe-tried-itSara Reistad-LongThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 ESTBurpees: The Perfect Exercise?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/burpee-exercise-squat-push-up-vertical-jump/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/burpee-exercise-squat-push-up-vertical-jump/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/burpee-exercise-squat-push-up-vertical-jump/#commentsFiled under:


Burpees. The name's not pretty, but the results sure are!

A combination of squat, push-up, and vertical jump, the burpee has a somewhat nasty reputation for being the exercise of choice in prisons. But you should consider adding burpees to your routine for the same reasons inmates might: The burpee requires no equipment and can be done just about anywhere. Plus, it works your entire body, including those important core muscles, while increasing your cardio endurance.

So how do you do a burpee? The basic version is a six count move. Begin in the standing position, then:

  1. Sit into a squat.
  2. Kick your feet behind you so you're in a push-up position.
  3. Lower your chest to the ground.
  4. Press back up to complete the push up.
  5. Pull your feet back in so you're in squat position.
  6. Jump up in the air while clapping overhead.

Continue reading Burpees: The Perfect Exercise?

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]]>burpeecardiocore musclesCoreMusclesendurancepush-upsPushUpPushUpssquatsquatsMelissa JoulwanThu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 ESTGetting Fit: 15 Minutes Is All It Takeshttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/short-workout/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/short-workout/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/19/short-workout/#commentsFiled under:

Good news, busy people: 15 minutes is enough time for an effective workout.

Continue reading Getting Fit: 15 Minutes Is All It Takes

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]]>15 minute workout15MinuteWorkoutdaily-fit-tipworkoutMartha EdwardsThu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 ESTWorkout Playlist: Which Songs Get You Exercising?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/music-workout-gym/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/music-workout-gym/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/music-workout-gym/#commentsFiled under: ,

Keep track of the latest in diet and fitness Twitter trends and opinions with this weekly post. Not only will AOL Health's Twitter alias Healthpop and That's_Fit ask fitness-related questions and share the best responses with you, we'll scour the Twittersphere for the latest buzz on everything from good eats to exercise routines gone bad.
Crank up the music and hit the gym. A few new songs on your iPod could be just what you need to get your exercise routine back into the swing of things (especially before Thanksgiving dinner wreaks havoc on your diet). We turned to the fantastically fit folks on Twitter to find out which tunes get them pumped for a workout. Turns out the musical stylings of Lady Gaga get a lot of gym goer's ready for a workout.

PrestoCait
PrestoCait
prestocait @Thats_Fit Right now, "Bad Romance" Lady Gaga, and @paramore's new album "Brand New Eyes"
ColletteAM
ColletteAM
ColletteAM@Thats_Fit top picks - Whitney Houston "Every Woman" anything Justin Timberlake (yum!), The Demonstrators "Paper Runnin", E Major "Make It"
biggirleats
biggirleats
biggirleats@Thats_Fit I just rediscovered my love for Daft Punk!
areynolds65
areynolds65
areynolds65 Def Leppard tunes make a very motivational workout soundtrack!
carlykakasuleff
carlykakasuleff
carlykakasuleff The extent you push yourself during your workout greatly depends on the tunes on your iPod - amazing how easy things are when ur pumped up!.
celeste_w
celeste_w
celeste_w you know, i really love the songs used in car commercials... would be great exercise tunes!
charmful
charmful
charmful Awesome workout music: Metallica, Lenny Kravitz, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, ACDC, Fallout Boy, Rihanna, Britney Spears.
filmgeekchic
filmgeekchic
filmgeekchic Burning a requested copy of my Lady Gaga music (hey its good gym music!) for my boss. I'm not going to ask...or judge...much.
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]]>beyoncedaft punkDaftPunkexercise musicExerciseMusicgym musicGymMusicipodlady gagaLadyGagamusicthanksgivingdinnertunestwitter-tipswhitney houstonWhitneyHoustonworkout musicworkout songsworkout tunesWorkoutMusicWorkoutSongsWorkoutTunesAmanda YoungerWed, 18 Nov 2009 16:00:00 ESTThe Biggest Loser: The Heart of Makeover Weekhttp://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/biggest-loser-the-heart-of-a-makeover-week/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/biggest-loser-the-heart-of-a-makeover-week/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/biggest-loser-the-heart-of-a-makeover-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Photo: Trae Patton, NBC


Week 10 marked double digit weeks spent on "The Biggest Loser" ranch, as well as a clothes, hair and emotional transformation for the final six. It was a soul-searching makeover week, draped in glitz and glamor and awash in happy tears, family reunions and a chance to tell the world how eating right and working out changes lives. Contestants showed off noticeably slimmer waistlines in gorgeous off-the-rack clothes for dramatic effect. After the stage lights dimmed, makeover week weight loss was kind to some and not others, delivering a heated elimination confrontation.

Goodbye X-Sizes, Hello Jawlines. Besides seeing famous designer Tim Gunn try to convince Rebecca to sport the leopard print blouse, makeover week had fans buzzing with one visual excitement after another. No more X-men and women ranch t-shirts, this is the moment contestants slip into real clothes and designer haircuts. They looked thin this week because nearly 500 pounds of fat is gone between the final six. Instead of a visit with Tyra Banks, Season 8 contestants stepped on stage to speak about their weight loss journey to a 300-plus audience.

Morbid Obesity Has Its Reasons. Jillian's skinny jawline dropped when Rudy stood on the stage and shared with the crowd he lost his 14-year-old sister to leukemia when he was just 12 years old. Jillian ended up pulling Rudy into a one-on-one counseling workout back at the ranch, pointing out his unresolved grief must be acknowledged to continue to grow. Rudy shared that knowing what started his weight gain is a critical piece to keeping the weight off permanently. Liz told the audience she lost herself while serving the needs of others. However she's shining the spotlight back on herself. If you're overweight, obese or just in horrible shape -- why? How did you develop negative eating and fitness habits? What can you do emotionally to shore up your resolve for a lifetime of healthier choices? Forget the next diet trick -- for eight seasons now, Jillian has said this makeover of heart and soul is one of the most critical strategies for permanent weight loss.

Continue reading The Biggest Loser: The Heart of Makeover Week

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]]>Season 8 makeover weekSeason8MakeoverWeekThe Biggest Loserthe-biggest-loserTheBiggestLoserBev SklarWed, 18 Nov 2009 15:00:00 ESTHow Can I Tone My Abs After Pregnancy?http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/how-can-i-get-my-flat-stomach-back-after-pregnancy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/how-can-i-get-my-flat-stomach-back-after-pregnancy/http://www.thatsfit.com/2009/11/18/how-can-i-get-my-flat-stomach-back-after-pregnancy/#commentsFiled under: ,

I lost all of my baby weight, but my stomach is still squishy -- how can I get my toned abdomen back? - Lisa, San Francisco

Even if your body shrinks to your previous size after giving birth, the stomach can still seem as though it will never snap back. During pregnancy -- especially in the second and third trimester -- some women can experience a separation of their abdominal muscles, which is a condition known as diastasis recti. Basically, this condition occurs when the rectus abdominus begins to pull apart leaving it thinner and weaker. Try adding in some core exercises, such as the front pillar bridge, at the end of your normal strength training routine. This exercise will help strengthen the muscles on the anterior side of your core; and in particular, the rectus abdominus.

The Exercise Prescription: Try performing two to three sets of the front pillar bridge (or the Kneeling version). Ideally, the goal is to hold for 30 seconds in the top position without breaking form and that would equal one set. If you are unable to hold the top position for that long, try holding for five to 10 seconds per rep and perform as many reps as you need in order to total 30 seconds in the top position.

Here's how to do the moves:

Continue reading How Can I Tone My Abs After Pregnancy?

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]]>bridgeflat stomachjoe-dowdellplankpost-babypregnancyJoe DowdellWed, 18 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST