I've been out of the running club all summer due to hip and quadricep tightness and pain. Because I thrive on exercise, it's been a challenge to come up with something that would keep my shape and give me a physical release. I've tried yoga. I've tried pilates. I've tried cycling on a stationary bike. None of them could quite compare to the benefits I enjoyed from running. Also, they didn't work to keep the effects of daily desserts off my body. Pretty soon, my jeans weren't just tight, they cut off my circulation at the thighs.
So I pulled out my Essentrics videos. Essentrics is taught by a former ballerina, Miranda Esmonde White. You might recognize her from the PBS series, Classical Stretch. Her method of toning uses stretching and lengthening of the muscles, which creates a long, lean dancer's body. Some of the moves are from tai chi, some are from ballet, and some Esmonde White came up with on her own. I have found that, combined with fewer desserts, this workout really does make me feel better about my body. Some of my areas will never be flat, while others will never be big, but overall, my figure feels tighter and stronger.
If you suffer from joint pain or want to tone your body quickly, try these workouts. They only take 30 minutes each, and they are relaxing because they loosen up your entire body. I would think they'd be great for those who've just had a baby, too. While the baby sleeps, you can simply put on the DVD and exercise in your jammies and bare feet. Then you can fall asleep too!
You can order these workouts online here http://www.essentrics.com
The workout on the left is taught by Sahra Esmond White, Miranda's daughter, and was designed to appeal to a younger audience. (Actually, the moves are the same, but the class participants in the DVD are younger.) It's sold under the Essentrics title.
The workout on the right is under the Classical Stretch titles. Both are designed by Miranda Esmonde White.
PS
I wasn't paid to write this post. I just happen to like these workouts and thought some of you might, too.
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