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Her alternative: simple, low-impact exercises that "people can do inexpensively and easily, with no big equipment." Many are based on the Pilates principle of strengthening your core--the abdomen, hip and back muscles that support the spine. To do her abs-targeting tummy tuck, for instance, lie on an exercise mat or other soft surface with your knees bent and arms at your sides. Inhale deeply, then as you slowly exhale, draw your abdomen in. You don't have to leave the house to do the exercises. "You can get an overall body workout without going to the gym," she says. If you don't have dumbbells, she suggests water-filled milk jugs instead.
Navratilova says that with her strategy, "you can feel a difference over a couple of weeks." But it's really about the long term. "You need to have the wherewithal to see the big goal," she says. "Stay with it." Her long career may be her best advertisement. "I'm still playing! I'm still doing it!" she says. "And if I feel like this the rest of my life, I'll be happy." Take it from a pro: it will work for you too.