Sure these moves are useful, but they're not much fun. Besides, they all focus solely on the legs, which isn't always practical. "It's very important that the trunk be flexible before you en. Hgage in anything physical," says William "Will Power" Thompson,  a celebrity trainer. This five-minute warm-up loosens up both the upper and lower body. Its real benefit, however, is how it can prepare your waist for the workout ahead.

Another reason Power loves this combo: "It forces my clients to strengthen the muscle groups they'd rather ignore," he says. "Making these exercises a permanent fixture from the start keeps them from ignoring them." Here's the drill:

Stand next to an exercise mat and do 10 jumping jacks. Immediately jog in place for 30 steps and then repeat the sequence once.

Next, lie faceup on the mat with knees bent and feet flat on floor. Place your fingertips alongside your ears so that your elbows point toward your kneecaps. To a count of 4, slowly curl your torso upward while simultaneously drawing your thighs toward your midsection. Once your thighs and elbows touch, pause for 2 seconds, and then lower yourself back down to the count of 4. Perform 8 repetitions.

Gently roll onto your stomach. Lie facedown with your legs extended, arms at your sides, palms up. Tuck your hands underneath your hips to lift your pelvis, and then raise your legs a few inches off the floor. Spread your feet apart and then as you draw them together, cross one over the other. Perform 8 reps. Stand up and finish with one more set of jumping jacks and running in place.

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