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Video: Shama Sikandar shares her fitness secrets

Last updated on: May 6, 2010 12:38 IST

Television actress Shama Sikandar has abs to die for. The star, who is currently part of Yash Raj's Seven, shows Hitesh Harisinghani how she keeps in shape with a yoga/kickboxing routine. Here's a sneak peek into the sexy star's hot workout:

1. Before you start any workout, it is important to keep your mind and body calm. For this you need to practice some breathing exercises. Sit in a comfortable position with your back erect. Close your eyes and think nothing. Breathe in, count five and breathe out. Repeat this a few times over so you feel fresh and energetic.

2. It is essential that you stretch your muscles before any strenuous workout. Since kickboxing can be very stressful you must practice some basic yoga stretches: Lie on a mat and with your hands under your shoulders push your upper body upwards, looking towards the sky. Now arch your body the other way with your bottom raised and feet and palms firmly on the ground. Follow this up by pulling your knees close to your chest, the other leg stretched out and your back arching backwards with your hands held straight above your head. Follow this routine with some basic push-ups.

3. There are four types of basic punches that will exercise your hands and upper body. These are: straight punch, left hook, right hook and uppercut punch. An extensive punching routine helps you keep your arms, shoulders and upper body in good shape.

4. Functional training is a kind of exercise that gets your body geared up for the day's activities. This involves practicing a series of punches followed by kicking high and jogging fiercely in between. Just 15 minutes of this workout can transform you.

5. Ab crunches help you get a lean, sexy waistline. Upper crunches involves you lying down with legs folded at the knees, raised and slowly raising your upper body off the floor. Lower crunches involve a similar routine but with your legs.

6. For the back, lie on the floor face down, stretch out your hands and raise them upwards as you raise your legs too. It is important to focus on the area you want to work out.

7. Repeat the stretches because it is important to let your muscles relax.

Video: Hitesh Harisinghani