11 Great Exercises To Prep For Summer
July 17, 2019
source: Amazing Remedy
Winter is finally coming to somewhat of an end, and many of us are carrying around a bit of winter weight. If you’re not feeling the most confident about your body, it’s definitely not too late to make a change. The following exercises are simple, can be done in your own home, and will help you to look and feel your best this summer!
1. Jump Squat
To really tone your butt and thighs while also getting in some cardio, jump squats are the answer.
2. Traditional Squat
If you don’t have great knees, a traditional squat is a low-impact alternative to jump squats. Squatting with weight will make the exercise even more effective.
3. Sumo Squat
Another great squat variation is the sumo squat. In the sumo squat, your stance is wider with your toes pointing outwards.
4. Curtsy Lunge
A curtsy lunge is another great glute and inner-thigh toning exercise. Instead of reaching your leg straight back like with a traditional lunge, you’ll extend it back and to the side slightly (like a curtsy).
5. Isometric Squat With Toe Tap
This exercise requires you to stay in the squat position while extending each leg and doing alternating toe taps. This is an excellent exercise for firm glutes, legs, and abs.
6. Bicycle Crunch
This core-blasting exercise requires you to lie on your back and alternate sides in the crunch position. While doing these alternating crunches, you’ll also be peddling your legs as though you were riding a bike.
7. Plank
To strengthen your core and upper arms, a traditional plank is a great exercise. Just ensure your head is over your arms and that your back is flat. Try to hold the plank position for 30 seconds before building up to more.
8. T Raise
For a strong back, shoulders, and arms, T raises are the solution. Lie on your stomach with your arms to the sides and your thumbs facing the ceiling. Raise your arms straight up and down in a pulsing fashion.
9. Mountain Climber
Mountain climbers are great because they target your abs, glutes, and provide you with a burst of cardio (if you do them at a higher intensity).
10. Flutter Kick
Flutter kicks are a great workout for the lower abdominal muscles. Lie on your back with your arms beside you. Raise both legs into the air and alternate raising them up and down, ensuring you are keeping both legs straight.
11. Side Plank Leg Lift
Side plank leg lifts are great for tightening your outer thighs, glutes, shoulders, and core. Use your forearm to support planking on your side. Raise the leg that’s not touching the floor up and down for 30 seconds. Repeat with your other side.