Beyond the Treadmill

"People sometimes leave class crying they feel so good," Moreno continues. "This class is about the practice of feeling good, because when we realize we can feel good at any moment, it influences what we attract for our future."

I experienced an IntenSati class, and I did push myself to the brink; Moreno has an uncanny ability to make you want to achieve your utmost potential.

Even though I was sore for three days afterward, the class was well worth it.

"Your life begins at the end of your comfort zone, not at the beginning," says Moreno. IntenSati is very much about achieving your best, taking yourself to the limit and not being comfortable with complacency. "Don't fight for comfort, fight for greatness," says Moreno, with raw passion in her voice.

As Moreno puts it, "You must demand strength from your body. "If you don't ask the most from your body, your body will not give you the results you [desire] from it."

There is a growing demand for Moreno's workouts. She is training 100 IntenSati instructors who will teach worldwide, and recently returned from sessions in Russia, Germany, Italy and Mexico.

If there's not a class near you, you can also use the IntenSati DVD at home.

Alternatively, if you'd rather work out while on vacation -- and in a warmer climate -- Moreno has planned a retreat in Costa Rica in June. Check out the Web site for details.

And there's more on the way -- Moreno is an elite trainer for Nike (NKE Quote), and the company requested she create a workout specifically designed for them.

Dubbed WarriorSati, it is inspired by IntenSati but involves more kickboxing; Moreno will be featured at special events to bring awareness to the new routine.

A Perfect Balance

If you want a workout that is not quite as intense, try Nia, which stands for neuromuscular integrative action.

	IntenSati in Action
	Photo: Stockshot Studio

This workout was founded by Carlos and Debbie Rosas in the mid-1980s in California. There are 52 basic moves in the routine, and it is drawn from three martial arts (tai chi, tae kwon do and aikido); three dance arts (jazz, modern and Isadora Duncan's style); and three healing arts (the Feldenkrais method, the Alexander technique and yoga).

Nia, which is done barefoot, is not as aggressive as the other two workouts, but still gives you a thorough workout. There are more than 1,500 instructors around the world, so classes aren't too difficult to find.

Through its multifaceted approach, Nia has many positive effects, including improving endurance, strengthening muscles, boosting immunity and increasing grace.

So next time you're sitting at home, debating whether you can face the gym, check out some of these interesting alternative routines. They should get -- and keep -- you in shape.

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