How to cross-train your way to a better body.

Are you confused about what type of exercise program is best for you?

Everyone seems to have the perfect fitness remedy; the latest gadget or revolutionary diet guaranteed to help you lose fat and keep it off. Some experts swear by weight training; others say Yoga and Plates. What should you do? What is the best way?

The truth is there isn't just one way to get in shape; and one type of exercise will not give you the results you are looking for. If you think you can build a muscular upper body just by running, or only weight train to build endurance ... think again. To shape the body you've always dreamed of takes consistency, intensity and determination. But you must choose a variety of physical activities to keep you interested and motivated. As a personal trainer I have seen many people succeed and fail, and those who succeed are usually the people who cross-train - doing two or more types of exercises in one workout or in successive workouts. Cross-training keeps your workouts fresh, interesting and productive, and the training load is distributed among different bodyparts. Here's a list of six of today's most popular training methods.

Weight Training

Nothing packs on mass, or sculpts and tones your whole physique like weight-resistance training. Training with weights helps strengthen bones, protect ligaments and joints and also helps us stave off muscle atrophy later in life. The result is a symmetrical and muscular physique. For best results, dedicate at least three days a week to weight training and hit each bodypart at least once a week.

Running

Running is one of the simplest and best ways to burn fat. All you need is a good pair of sneakers for support and the open road. Running, however, is not for everyone. It is an activity that involves a lot of impact on your joints. If you have any lower back or knee problems you should be careful. Beginners should start with walking, then build up to a slow jog and finally running. Try to stay away from running on concrete. Instead, choose a softer surface like dirt or silt. Running is great for your cardiovascular system, but don't overdo it or you may just find yourself nursing an injury.

Yoga

Yoga isn't just for women. In fact, many of your sports heroes are practicing Yoga regularly. Why? Yoga helps to build your cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility. It is the perfect supplemental workout to relieve stress. I confess, I was once skeptical about trying this disciplined exercise. But Yoga has improved my flexibility, balance and my kickboxing technique. It has also given me better range of motion on some weight training exercises (especially squats). Yoga is also very challenging. It takes a lot of strength and cardiovascular endurance to hold a Yoga posture. Bikram Yoga, for example, is a form of Yoga involving 26 postures and practiced in a room heated up to 120 degrees.

Pilates

Pilates is basically a series of stretching and toning exercises on a mat-the movements are designed to train the mind and body to work together to master the muscles. It has been said that Pilates is good for building long lean muscles as well as helping increase your flexibility and balance. The Pilates method is an ideal exercise for people who want to increase their flexibility and could be used as a form of rehab Seniors will also find this exercise method beneficial because there are no abrupt jarring movements.

Kickboxing

If you want to develop great cardio conditioning and learn how to kick ass, then kickboxing is for you. Kickboxing takes a lot of flexibility, balance, coordination, strength and cardio capacity. Every time I take a kickboxing class, I am drenched in sweat. This is a tough workout, so expect to be very sore. I wouldn't recommend that you take a kickboxing class more than twice a week (you will use muscles you have never used before), or your weight training will suffer. If you're not sure about taking a kickboxing class, then sign up for a one-on-one session - you'll learn more if the focus is on you for that one hour. If you don't like kickboxing, then I suggest you try another form of martial arts.

Spinning

Spinning is a great aerobic exercise that is effective for building stamina and balance and developing strength in your legs, Spinning is done on a specially made bike. The bike has many levels of intensity and can be ridden seated or standing. Spinning usually takes place in an aerobics room, where there are about 20 other

bikes During the one-hour class, the instructor changes the speeds and intensity level. Sometimes the class atmosphere helps keep you motivated. (Once you get on that bike in front of 20 other people, chances are you will be too embarrassed to get off the bike and leave.) Spinning is also an excellent way to burn fat.

Summary

Well, there you have it, six of the most popular methods of training out there today. Remember, variety is key, so pick more than one exercise type and have fun. Otherwise, you will never build your dream physique. The more you enjoy working out, the more likely you will stay consistent with your program. Good luck and have fun.