Getting in Shape

If you weren’t already smitten with her girl-next-door personality and mega-watt smile, then perhaps you will fall in love with Julia Roberts’ water fitness plan.
 
With summer just round the corner, the superstar’s trainer, Kathy Kaehler, says why not hit the water for your next workout? The great part about getting jiggy in the water is that it doesn’t require having a pool in your backyard. These days, you can often find a pool at a gym, community center, YMCA, hotel or local college.
 
Kaehler suggests that beginners consider taking a class to get started. Here newcomers will discover that there are hundreds of exercises that can be done in shallow or deep water, including walking, marching, running, cross-country skiing, kicking, leaping and even crunches. Oscar-winning actress Roberts does cardio exercises, like jumping jacks, water walking and water running in the deep end using flotation belts. For toning, she does scissors, heel lifts, leg lifts, leg circles and knee swivels.
 
Water workouts are a fantastic cardio and toning option because the resistance of the water increases the challenge of the workout. The other great aspect of aqua fitness is that there is no impact, which makes it easy on the joints and a great option for people with injuries or arthritis. Kaehler said water workouts are also good for improving your mindset. The water makes for a refreshing and uplifting exercise session. [MSNBC]