Bikini season alert! Find the hot fitness trend that will work for you

If you’re looking to get long and lean, Pilates may be your true calling! The workout is a body conditioning routine that helps build flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance in the legs, abdominals, arms, hips, and back. It was introduced by German circus performer and boxer Joseph Pilates during WWI when he was forced into an English internment camp. Originally it started out as a way to rehabilitate detainees who were injured. As a professional in fitness, Pilates had been a deathly sick child and claims that Pilates saved his life and made him stronger. He opened up his first studio in NYC during the 1920's and trained many dancers from the New York City Ballet. After teaching student after student his techniques, many went on to teach Pilates as well. The trend spread to Hollywood by the 1970's and since then has expanded over the years due to it's ability to tone and be gentle on the body.

Best for: Moms looking to build their stomach muscles again, former dancers, and anyone who wants to work on their posture! The workout is easy enough for anyone from beginners to advanced levels to enjoy its benefits. Pilates used to be catered to the elite, but has become affordable overtime–although some classes are still pricey–and it can even be done at home due to the various workout DVD's being sold today. Many celebrities including Jennifer Aniston and Daisy Fuentes thank the popular workout for their fabulously toned figures! Try this Shrink Your Fat Zones Pilates workout DVD from Denise Austin Amazon.com, $8

This workout is exactly what it sounds like: Pilates meets boxing. Piloxing was created by Swedish dancer and celeb trainer Viveca Jensen. The technique blend sensual dance moves, Pilates moves and boxing moves to sculpt your core and arms during an intense cardio workout. You will burn between 400 and 900 calories per hour in this class– so come ready to sweat!

Perfect for: Jensen's unique workout is an empowering experience for women of all ages and sizes. Her motto when it comes to Piloxing is: “Sleek, Sexy, Powerful.” If you're a hot mama looking to get bring back muscle tone you lost during pregnancy and gain endurance to keep up with your little one, you'll love this workout.  New mom, Hilary Duff is a die hard fan and it's doing wonders for her! Piloxing classes can cost as little as $10 for an introductory class, but prices tend to soar there on. The good thing is that Jensen has put out workout DVD's that are affordable and can be done in the comfort of your own home. We recommend: Piloxing Express Toning by Viveca Jensen (Amazon.com, $19)

Bikram or "Hot Yoga" as it's also known, is practiced in a 105 degree room. The yogi practice was introduced by Bikram Choudhury in the 1970's which consists of a series of 26 poses that allows for a loosening of tight muscles.The class helps enhance flexibility, recovery from injuries through deep stretching), and the flushing of toxins because you'll be sweating hardcore! It is recommended that you wear little clothing to a session because of the sweat factor–plus it will make you feel more comfortable.

Best for: The mom looking to unwind after a long day with the kids that isn't afraid to break a sweat in a room full of strangers. It's meant for all fitness levels, but it is important to come mentally prepared that you will be in a REALLY hot room for an hour or more (in some studios) and some won't let you leave once the session has begun. Unfortunately, this type of yoga can only be taken in a studio and can't be done at home. However, many Bikram yoga spots offer affordable rates for their classes and even offer a month of unlimited classes! To find a Bikram yoga class near you check out the class locator at  Bikramyoga.com.

Aerial yoga also known as Anti-gravity yoga combines yoga with acrobatics moves through the use of a suspended hammock constructed out of the same type of silk material that is often used in aerial performances. Created by Christopher Calvin, a choreographer and founder of Antigravity, Inc., it's purpose is to increase your agility while allowing you to have a greater range of motion. Originally intended for athletes, dancers, and gymnasts, this artsy trend has hit many gyms and yoga studios alike. 

__Best for:__This would be ideal for the woman who is recovering from any bodily injuries or to vamp up your regular yoga routine. If you've never done yoga airborne before, we recommend starting at a beginner level in order to get a feel for the movements. It might be intimidating the first time you try it, but you'll see how quickly you'll feel like a kid again swinging on ropes. The costs vary upon location but can cost up to $25 for a single 90 minute session. One thing for sure is you will have LOADS of fun! To find locations that offer aerial yoga classes find out here.

This barre class is a tough thigh, butt and ab workout! Founded in 2006 in NYC by dance enthusiast, Jennifer Vaughan Maanavi, Physique 57 attacks all the muscles in your body through interval sets using your body weight as resistance. In the classes your muscles are worked to the point of fatigue, then stretched for relief. The fad which hit the beginning of the barre trend is popular amongst many celebrities such as Kelly Ripa and Denise Richards because it promises results in as little as 8 workouts!

 Best for: If you're willing to endure the pain to take a class 5 times a week for a pretty penny and FAST results then we recommend it for you. However, being a mom the last thing you want to do is shell out lots of money on a fitness plan which is why you're in luck! Physique 57 also has their own at home workout DVD's–and at about $60 it sure beats having to pay over $200 for a month's session. Our favorite is The Complete Physique 57 Workout Kit 3 Disc Set With Exercise Ball   Amazon.com, $59

An oldie but goodie, kickboxing targets your abs, butt, arms, shoulders, thighs. Through this martial arts workout and you’ll burn over 750 calories a session! Kickboxing became popular in the 1970's and is said to have started the latest mixed martial arts fitness fad. If you're a newbie to the class, have no fear, instructors are required to teach moderations for each move. One of the good things about kickboxing is that many gyms and martial arts studios offer classes and rates may vary. Often times your city's parks and recreation department can offer classes for cheap or for free. 

__Best for:__If you find yourself squatting most of the day to grab your little one then kickboxing may be the right activity for you. Not only will you strengthen your core, but your booty will be tighter than ever with all the leg work that takes place during the workout. If you are pressed on time and don't have time to go to an actual class, we love: Keli Roberts 10 Minute Solution Kickbox Bootcamp  Amazon.com, $9

There's a reason why Zumba is called a "Zumba Party." Well, because it certainly feels like one when you enter a class! Created by Colombian fitness instructor, Alberto "Beto" Perez, it's an excellent dance cardiovascular workout with many latin infused songs where you can burn up to 300 calories per session. He first brought his creation to dance studios in Miami, Florida and eventually the dance sessions were sold via informercials which sold like hot cakes! Pretty soon dance studios across the US were begging to have Zumba classes and at this point the fitness craze can even be found for gaming platforms such as tthe PS3, XBox and Wii.

Best for: Pretty much anyone! If you're slowly trying to get back into a fitness routine after having a baby or just starting to exercise, Zuma is perfect for you. Not only can you find classes as cheap as $10 in some studios in your area, but if you'd  first like to practice your moves at home, you have many Zumba options! You can't go wrong shaping up with the ultimate Zumba system: Zumba Fitness Exhilarate Body Shaping System DVD  Amazon.com, $59

If you're lucky enough to live near hiking grounds, you can easily get the best workout. Not only will you take in a beautiful scenery, but you'll achieve excellent legs in the process.

Best for: This is the ideal workout for anyone; young or old. Hiking is an excellent way to get some cardio in at your own pace and tone your lower body for an enviable derriere and gams. If you don't live near hiking grounds, another excellent way to tone up your lower body is to amp up the incline on your treadmill or elliptical machine.

Inspired by military training techniques bootcamp challenges your inner athlete. Be prepared to do push-ups, punches, kicks, burpees, running drills, and burn over 600 calories in an hour session. Popular since the 1990's it seems that bootcamp is still in style with classes such as celebrity favorite, Barry's Bootcamp expanding with no end in site.

Best for: Unless you have experience with rigorous exercise or military background, this class is not recommended for just anyone. However, it is an excellent workout that will physically and mentally challenge you. In fact, those muscles you never knew you had will become visible and your biceps will thank you when you have to hold your baby for long periods of time. Bootcamp has become popular in many gym and fitness facilities that you can easily find afforable classes. Or if you want to avoid having an instructor potentially yelling in your ear, one of our at home DVD recommendations would be: The Biggest Loser: The Workout- Bootcamp  Amazon.com $6

Similar to bootcamp, CrossFit challenges your inner athlete and consists of many athletic drills meant to push you hard. It was first created in 2000 by Greg Glassman as a strengthening and conditioning program in order to improve fitness. In the class you can expect to sprint, row, jump rope, flip tires, weight lift, climb ropes, carry heavy objects– and much more. Atlhough relatively new, a competition titled, The CrossFit Games has become popular since 2007. During the games competitors go head to head for the "Fittest on Earth" title and for cash prizes.

Best For: If you felt like fainting reading the description above…then CrossFit may not be for you. However, if you're up for the challenge, this obstacle-like fitness fad will awaken your inner competitor. We admit though, CrossFit doesn't come cheap, but the first trial classes are usually free. Make sure you come to the class mentally prepared and if you're pumped to try out one on your own, you can seek your closest location here.

If you are familiar with spinning classes then you’ll love Soul Cycle. The intense 45-minute spinning session also includes strength training and has attracted many celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. The trendy class which was created by former talent manager, Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler in 2006 has taken over Los Angeles and New York City.  The rooms are often dimly lit only with candles or a black light–and don't be surprised if you have a celebrity instructor from time to time.  You will burn over 500 to 700 calorie per class which includes the spinning of the bike and using two-pound weights simultaneously to tone your upper body. 

Best for: If you enjoy spinning with a twist, then you'll enjoy Soul Cycle. If you have never taken a spinning class in your life this will be a challenge but you'll still have fun! The class doesn't come cheap at $34 a single session and the wait list can be another issue as it is recommended that you book your bike a week in advance. But hey, if you're looking to get a sweat session and sexy arms–and are willing to splurge, Soul Cycle may be right for you. Plus you never know, maybe you'll get to ride next to Bradley Cooper *wink* *wink*

The Pound Rockout workout will make you feel like a rock star as you tap weighted drumsticks called Ripstix on the floor and in the air for hundreds of reps in 45 minutes while you hold squats, lunges and crunches. Pound founders, and drummers, Kirsten Potenza and Cristina Peerenboom created the latest hot fad in 2010 to combine challenging series of core, leg, and upper body conditioning moves with cardio interval training and a fusion of old school music. 

Best for: This class is great for just about anyone! The best part is you can't even tell how hard you're working out because you're having so much fun. The only bad thing is you wish it lasted longer! Not only do you work out your entire body, but you feel like you're in concert rocking out with a band. Many gyms have recently added the Pound workout to their lists, and in case you'd like to find a class near you, you can find it on the official site. But if you find there are none near you, you can always purchase the Ripstix for $14 and participate in their online classes for as little as $9 a month! Poundfit.com, $9

In 2004 popular home exercise program, Beachbody and personal trainer Tony Horton created P90X. The intense home fitness system complete with 12 DVD's and 3-phase nutritional plan was designed to be fun and allow you to constantly mix up your routine everyday. Through the method of muscle confusion It promises to make you fitter in a matter of 90 days. And by the looks of many before and afters–it works!

Best for: If you're looking to get fit fast for an upcoming special event or vacation, P90X is your godsend. However, it is not for the faint of heart and you have to be willing to workout an hour to an hour-and-a-half, 7 days a week and follow the schedule as given with the fitness system. The system is also a bit costly but it is effective if done the right way.  P90X.com, $119

Another one of Beachbody’s popular fitness programs is Insanity. The advanced, maximum-intensity system is a 60-day regimen created by trainer Shaun T and whips you into shape through max interval training. The program which was released in 2009 has workouts that are tough with small periods of rest in between. Many have had incredible body transformations doing Insanity, but you also have to be willing to commit six days a week to the workout regimen.

Best for: The hardcore mama would LOVE this workout. Much like P90X I would recommend this to the mom who is a gym rat or needs to get rid of her baby weight  quickly for a special occasion. From personal experience this workout works wonders and I even have a friend who lost over 30 pounds in a short period of time doing this program. A lot of fitness regimens require willpower and remembering that it's mind over matter if you want to get results. It's not on the affordable spectrum either, but if you would like to challenge yourself you can find the workout on the official site. Beachbody.com, $119

It may be found in strip clubs, but pole dancing became a big fitness fad in the late 90’s. And it's not as easy as it may seem! It requires significant strength, flexibility and endurance all while performing sexy dance moves. The workout is also meant to encourage women to gain more self-confidence.

Best for: Any mom or woman looking to get in touch with her sexuality or former gymnasts trying to get back in shape. There are many dance studios offering pole dancing classes; but if you're shy to try out the workout in public–don't worry there are many programs intended to be done at home! Check out this beginners at-home pole dancing DVD's that won't break your budget! BeSpun Leigh Ann's Pole Dance Beginner, Poledancingshop.com, $29

Remember how fun it is to jump on a trampoline? That’s pretty much the workout you will get while Urban Rebounding. The total body workout  which has existed since the 1990's was created by personal trainer JB Burns and is done on a trampoline and helps to tone, strength and build muscle in a low-impact environment–meaning it won’t hurt your knees.

Best For: Moms who are getting back into the workout groove post-baby will love this workout. It will also benefit women who are recovering from some injuries which limits their physical activity as it is easy on the body–plus it's fun! While some gyms offer classes on Urban Rebounding, you can do it from the comfort of your own home if you wish. We recommend trying out JB Burns at home fitness program complete with an urban rebounder for a fun and effective workout!
Urbanreboundinggym.com, $219

Kettlebells became popular in Russia in the 1700's with the Soviet Army and are cast iron weights on a handle that will work your arms and your body better than any of the machines at the gym. It challenges your balance and may feel awkward at first having to handle one which is why we recommend you receive assistance first to avoid any sports injuries.

Best for: The mom looking to tone up at home without having to spend lots of money. they've also been proven to improve back and shoulder pain which is an excellent benefit if you're running around carrying your baby all the time. Kettlebells can usually go from $10 and up depending on the weight you buy. The good thing is you can practice your moves at home with the many fitness DVD's out there. We recommend:  Kathy Smith's Kettlebell Solution  Target.com, $39

Got little time but want to tone up fast? Deemed the hardest workout of your life, Tabata is a session that consists of six to eight maximum-intensity sprints lasting 20 seconds apiece, with 10-second passive recovery periods between them. You can choose your weapon of choice whether it’s a stationary bike or treadmill. The best part is it only last 4 minutes, BUT it is not for the faint of heart. The workout focuses on intensity as opposed to duration and studies have shown that it really does work!

Best for: If you're the mom looking to get a workout in daily without it taking too much time. Not only will you tone up your body better than before your had kids, but you will have more endurance to catch up with them. And you won't have to spend an entire hour having to burn the same amount of calories you can in a matter of 4 minutes!

This workout was made for us Latinas who have a love affair with their tacones. Created by NDG Fitness company's, Nicole Damaris in 2010, the stiletto workout consists of you wearing your favorite 3-inch heels and performing squats, kicks, leg lifts, squats and pliés and demi-pliés while lifting weights. The purpose of the class is to help women improve their walking, stance, and balancing in their favorite heels.

Best for: Much like pole dancing, the Stiletto workout allows the average woman to feel sexy as she learns how to strut her stuff while wearing heels. However, it may make you feel a bit hesitant to try out the craze due to potential injuries. If you're too shy to waltz into a classroom and work your stilettos, there is the option of trying it out at home. But due to safety precautions we do urge you to try it in a fitness studio with trained professionals first. Catwalkconfidence.com, $19

In 2002 a former Navy Seal sent Master Chief, Aaron Baldwin the TRX suspension system to try out. What Baldwin found was that this workout incorporates gravity and your bodyweight to perform hundreds of exercises. During the strenuous workout, you're in control of how much you want to challenge yourself during each exercise as you can adjust your body position to add or decrease resistance.Personal trainers and gym classes have begun using TRX systems throughout the nation which strengthens your core and has been compared to yoga on ropes.

Best for: The woman who wants to strengthen her core while getting a cardio and muscle workout in. the TRX ropes have begun replacing stability balls for a more challenging workout that only uses your body weight. If you want to work out a la G.I. Jane, then look no further than TRX! You can perform these workouts at home with this space saving kit, but first it's probably best to try it out at a gym. We recommend: TRX Pro Basic +Door Anchor  Amazon.com, $199