Your Cosmic Guide for Staying in Shape

by Madalyn Aslan

Resolving to shed some winter pounds as we head into a new year? Each sign rules a different part of the body and has a different orientation toward physical activity, so certain exercises work better for each one. Here’s how to take your sign into consideration when designing a fitness routine that you’ll be inclined to stick with.

Consider your astrological element -- should you be exercising in water (water sign) or do you need the wind on your face (air sign)? If you're a fire sign you should literally heat yourself up -- as in sweat -- and if you're an earth sign, you accomplish miracles by exercising outdoors.

Be aware of your body’s "weakest link" (each sign has one) and work to protect it. And most of all, choose exercises that are interesting and stimulating to your sign, so you’ll stick with them:

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Drink a ton of water. As a fire sign, you burn through liquids -- so you need more than the average person. Exercise vigorously and work up an awesome sweat. Hot box yoga might appeal. You will also enjoy taking long hikes or climbs, running or cross-country skiing. You need variety and interest, preferably outdoors.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

You have a slow metabolism and enjoy routines... whatever you choose, you need regular classes and a simple exercise regimen. Yoga or pilates would be a good fit. Likewise, a home treadmill. You might also try a dance class to indulge your brilliant sense of rhythm. Your throat is your weak link -- don’t put anything fried down it.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

You run on your nerves, so relaxation is a necessity. Yoga, Tai Chi or Qi Gong will completely change your life. Gemini’s weak link is the lungs so make sure you practice deep breathing. Exercise had better be entertaining or it won't hold your interest for long.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

You need exercise that can be done at home. Invest in a few weights and exercise tapes. Because you are ruled by water, swimming is also excellent for you -- particularly the breast stroke (Cancer rules the breasts). Tummy toners are also a must to help offset your weakness for sweets.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22)

Whatever shows off your glamorous body is great exercise for you. You have tons of energy and are a brilliant dancer... but remember to take catnaps to enhance your natural beauty (lions sleep twenty hours a day!). Your weak link is your heart... and its disappointments. Both aerobic exercise and rest will help protect that Leo heart of yours.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)

Long walks every day are the perfect exercise for you. Stop your overactive mind at least twice a day with relaxation or meditation, and every few months a long break is an absolute must for you. The best Virgo sport is swimming, with specific, detail-oriented and structured exercise regimens. If you don’t have access to a pool, find a step-aerobic class at the local gym to keep active even in bad weather.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)

Respect the ups and downs of your energy levels. In the mornings you need mild exercise ... especially back stretches to strengthen your lower back. Evenings are best for dance and aerobics. Fatigue and tiredness come from too many carbs and not enough water. Drink more pure water!

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)

You crave grueling and challenging obstacle courses for your morning exercise, easily completing what most signs can’t even begin. This makes you the marathon champion. Just be careful not to use your fitness challenges to hide from your feelings -- that could cause you health troubles. Go high fiber, low fat and lots of water.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)

The best sports for you are running, walking, skiing and climbing. Traveler that you are, you love to move through space and being confined makes you restless. You can literally become sick if you don’t exercise enough, and the same goes for deep breathing. Your sign rules exhaled breath and may cause you to breathe shallowly. So say "yes" to yoga!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19)

Nothing too strenuous, dear Goat, as your sign's weakest link is in the knees. Instead of running, try gentle walking or swimming. You are a natural climber, and as long as you don’t overdo it -- especially in the sun -- you will always reach the top. See if there is a good climbing wall in your town so you'll be ready to head for the mountains when summer comes.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18)

You do best with unusual exercise such as surfing, snowboarding, gliding or parachuting. Also, exercise that allows you to express yourself -- like aerobic dance -- is a must. Whenever you have to exercise in a gym, make sure you have music to motivate you. Aquarius rules circulation, so get yours moving.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20)

As the most watery of the water signs, you need to be careful of water retention and bloating. Ironically, spending as much time in water as you can -- swimming, even bathing -- prevents this. Drink water, not soda; don't miss your sleep; be careful with your feet and do try Tai Chi!