New Exercise Combines Aerobics, Yoga, Lifting

NATICK, Mass. -- Let's face it -- whether you're walking the treadmill for your heart, lifting weights for strength, or doing yoga for flexibility, getting in shape is a lot of work.

That's why gym hounds and couch potatoes alike might be happy to hear about a new form of exercise that claims to roll eveything all into one.

The class is a little bit of aerobics, yoga, pilates and muscular conditioning class.

Some members at Gold's Gym in Natick are getting hooked.

"It was great. It was really fun. I'll definitely come back and do it again," member Jacqueline Cottrell said.

It's called Core Board. Developed by Reebok University and the American College of Sports Medicine two years ago, the simple plastic board not only promises to improve balance, but to strengthen the body's core -- mostly, those underused muscles in the abdomen and torso.

"You actually have to contract all your core muscles to rotate the board rather than rotating yourself," trainer Leslie Day said.

Day said that daily activities become easier.

"When you come back in the real world and you're walking, sitting, standing, running, jumping, playing a sport, playing volleyball, basketball, whatever, your core muscles are stronger," Day said.

John Merguerian broke his lower back two years ago and is looking to Core Board for rehabilitation.

"This is the only way I'm going to get my flexibility in my lower body," Merguerian said.

For him, the challenge is worth it.

"It's good. It's hard, but it's good," he said.

Core Board classes are being offered at some Gold's Gym sites and at other area fitness centers.

Despite how comprehensive a Core Board workout is supposed to be, trainers said that it's better to use it as an adjunct to your fitness regimen, as variety in your workout keeps your body strong and your mind engaged.