Of course, genetics play a major role in the shape and structure of your body and its formation of muscles. The rate at which your body metabolizes food is also key in how lean your figure is. But, with the right heart-pumping, muscle-flexing exercises, you can dramatically improve on what you have. "Dancers are known to have the most beautiful butts and legs, and they walk with a certain poise that is easily recognizable," asserts Richard. "They work hard to maintain their slender and supple figures with elegance and grace."

For most dancers, daily training consists of long, rigorous two-to=eight hour workouts and rehearsals. Obviously, the average, non-dancers couldn't even imagine dedicating that much time each day to their workouts. But, according to Richard, even one hour a day - a very efficient and effective hour, that is - will help shape your body similar to that of a dancer.

Belly up to the barre
Enter the ballet barre. Fast becoming the hottest fitness tool du jour, barres are popping up in an array of classes at gyms and spas across the country. Using the barre promotes stability, helps you focus on the core, and allows controlled isometric movements that force fast-twitch muscles (which develop strength and speed) to repeatedly fire. The result is a taut and tip body.

... Richard Giorla's CARDIO BARRE®, currently offered only at the CARDIO BARRE® studio in Los Angeles keeps students moving to upbeat, fast-paced, vibrating, loud music that motivates you to keep going even during the most muscles-screaming sets of fat-blasting exercises. The class combines movements traditionally found in ballet, hip-hop, Tae Bo, Pilates, yoga, resistance, and "ab attack" classes.

Bring your workout home

If you, like most of us, don't happen to have a ballet barre bolted to your living-room wall, you can purchase a relatively inexpensive, sturdy one at the CARDIO BARRE® website, or simply hold onto a heavy chair or countertop that hits you at hip level.