This Workout Is Tutu Good

Ballet has come a long way since the days of boring barre routines, drill-sergeant teachers and recitals. It's worth revisiting those moves you might've done at the dance studio so many years ago. Ballet is enjoying a renaissance among those who admire and desire the long, lean lines and tight muscles of a dancer's body. Ballet's benefits go beyond the aesthetic, however. It's a great way to improve posture, balance and flexibility. Proper posture ensures correct breathing and a stronger core. Flexibility and balance decrease the potential for injury, especially in older people. And by building those strong muscles, you're also building stronger bones. Ballet even benefits your brain - thinking about and controlling isolated muscle movements helps you become better coordinated. Getting those slim legs and toned arms doesn't require donning a tutu and showing up at a studio, however.