NY1.com

  31º

Updated 08/28/2010 02:30 PM

Popular Workout Combines Stretch, Stamina

By: Kafi Drexel

  To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

If you treat your body like a blank canvas, you just might be able to create some abs of steel thanks to a popular new workout. NY1's Kafi Drexel filed the following report.

BodyART, a popular fitness routine overseas, has now landed state side. While it doesn't involve any paint or tattoos, it does require a little cardio, dance, yoga, pilates and even some tai-chi for a full body workout.

"BodyART allows your body to move in ways it might not normally move but allows it to bring the practicality and functionality of what you might do throughout the course of your day into a workout and then make your body feel good doing it," explains Crunch Fitness Regional Director of Group Fitness Marc Santa Maria.

With a yin-yang, East meets West idea in mind, BodyART incorporates deep-stretch slow sequences and then pumps up the volume to quicken the pace.

"I like the fast paced part of the workout. That's what really gets me really energized and prepared to sort of relax at the end," says BodyART participant Chelsea Fischman.

A major component of the class is the art of multitasking, where instructors say participants are essentially getting three workouts in one.

Rooted in physical therapy, the workout blend incorporates the 3-in-1 approach with strength, cardio, and flexibility training.

"Sometimes you might get a very boot campy, hardcore workout but it leaves your body feeling tired or just sore in a way you can't even move the next day. What I love about BodyART here is it allows you to get that powerhouse workout, but you feel that fluidity in your body," says Santa Maria.

"It's going to help me all around. It's also balance. It's core work. It's everything," says BodyART participant Michele Weimer.