Here's a recession-proof workout routine that leaves you no excuses. It costs only about $5, and it works for travel, the office or home. It packs flat in a suitcase or can fit in a handbag. It's great for both strengthening and stretching, upper and lower body.

It's done simply with resistance bands. In 15 to 20 minutes, you can get a total body workout.

Wainani Hansen, a Pilates, yoga and gyrotonic instructor at the On Balance Studio in Kailua, is a believer in enhancing a workout with bands. In fact, she's giving a workshop on how to use them (see box).

"They can assist with a difficult exercise by increasing range of motion," Hansen said. "They can also make exercises more intense by challenging the muscles to work harder."

Bands can enhance stretches. Hansen's favorite thing about bands, however, is that they're fun.

"I don't feel like I'm alone on the floor, the instructor said. "I have a friend."

Hansen uses Thera-band resistance bands. There are other types, some of which come with handles. Thera-bands come in different lengths and are color-coded for four different tension levels. It's best to try them out to find a good match. They only cost about $5 to $8 each.