Ditch your boring treadmill routine. These unusual exercises make working out fun by Eveline Gan   TCHAIKOVSKY'S melody fills the room. A motley group of seniors, each raising a baton, sways to the music as they execute conductor-like moves.   To the uninitiated, they look like they are learning orchestra conducting techniques. In reality, they are actually doing a full body workout called Conductorcise. The low-impact fitness programme, which originated from the United States, combines music appreciation, the art of conducting and exercise.   Isaiah Chng, director of Proage, which brought Conductorcise to Singapore last year, said the fitness routine is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and offers a fun and unique alternative to traditional exercise.   "Exercise can be very boring and repetitive. These days, people don't want to just hit the treadmill and run brainlessly. They want exercise to be fun and enriching," said Chng, a certified exercise physiologist.   Conductorcise isn't the only unusual fitness programme available here on our sunny shores. Today found several fitness operators offering unusual workouts that meld fitness and various art forms, all in the name of fun.   California Fitness is one of them. Last year, it launched Zumba Fitness classes, in which participants undergo an aerobic workout involving Latin dance moves.   Last month, as part of the PA's (People's Association) Got Talents! Celebrates Chingay arts and culture carnival, it launched a series of artistic fitness courses including Bhangra aerobics. Artistic fitness courses combine fitness regimes with artistic elements like music and dance, said Toh Lay Hoon, director of PA's Life Skills And Lifestyle Division and coordinator of Community Arts.   "We wanted to offer residents a new and creative way of exercising by melding fitness with the arts.   "Some of the courses such as wushu dance also give a refreshing twist to traditional art forms. They help to enhance wellness while providing creative outlets for participants to express themselves through exercise," said Toh.   Most fitness experts believe that the secret to maintaining a consistent exercise routine is to enjoy it.   Shirley Chong, a public relations manager, said she used to dread exercising until she discovered Conductorcise.   "I think I've finally found the best way to tone my arms through joy and fun," she said.   Suelyn Chan, principal physiotherapist at Singapore General Hospital's Department Of Physiotherapy, said such fitness workouts work well because they "make exercise fun and keep (people) interested". Exercising in a group also keeps one motivated.   However, Chan added that it is also possible to spice up "boring" solo exercises such as jogging.   "Plug in to music or watch TV while you're on the treadmill. Any form of distraction that keeps the mind occupied helps," she said.   Good for maintaining or improving cardiovascular health, Chan said aerobic exercises are generally safe for most people. However, if you have any medical condition, do get clearance from your doctor before you start any exercise programme, she added.               This article was featured in Today March 8, 2011. http://www.todayonline.com/Health/EDC110308-0000171/Fit-for-fun