Is aerobic activity (like in-line skating) three times a week a sufficient workout? I do it for about 45 minutes and definitely work up a bit of a sweat. While this works my lower body, I feel like my upper body is neglected. What are some simple exercises I can do to tone my arms and stomach (that don't require any expensive equipment)?

-- Martola

Martola,

If your goal is to keep your heart and lungs healthy, then sure, three 45-minute aerobic workouts will do the trick. It's definitely not necessary to take up permanent residence in a health club or train for an ultra-marathon.

At the same time, you're smart to recognize that in-line skating isn't going to do much for your upper body. Fortunately, you can take care of that with a 15-minute toning routine two or three times a week.

Your absolute cheapest option is to fork over $10 for a set of rubber exercise tubes or bands. Exercise tubes are long, flat sheets of rubber (like the thick rubber tubes you can find in a medical supply store)--some have handles attached to each end and come in a kit with attachable plastic bars and door attachments (in which case they can cost up to $50).

You can strengthen virtually every muscle group in your body by maneuvering these gizmos in various pulling and pushing motions. To learn the exercises, we recommend buying a band that comes with a video.

One of the best is the Lifeline Gym, which costs $50 plus $5 shipping and handling. For more info, call (800) 553-6633. You also can order bands, tubes, and videos from The Complete Guide to Exercise Videos, a terrific catalog with a wide selection.

To order the free catalog, call (800) 433-6769. The catalog's friendly video "consultants" can help you choose the right equipment and tape.

By the way, if exercise tubes don't float your boat, invest in three to five pairs of dumbbells ($50 to $150), along with a video to learn how to use them properly. Personally, we prefer pumping iron to pumping rubber. But you asked for cheap!

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