We are nearing the end of the semester and that means one thing: summer. I don’t know about you guys, but I am beyond excited to soak in the summer sun and not have to worry about projects, homework, reading, or exams. With summer comes the heat, and with heat brings on tanks and shorts. Need to start toning up fast? I’m going to give some quick exercises that target your arms, legs, and abs to make sure you have the best beach body around.
ABS
Planks
Yes, we all know that planks are hard. They require a lot of shoulder, arm, back, butt, and core strength; but, using all of those different muscles just to do one exercise is extremely beneficial to our bodies. There have been a lot of studies that have shown that ordinary crunches don’t exactly help build that six pack you are looking for. I suggest doing both front and side planks to target all parts of your abs, including your obliques. Also, start doing thirty seconds and increase the length of your plank by a couple seconds each day. Try to reach three minutes on each side by the end of the summer!
ARMS
Push-Ups
Once again, we all recognize how challenging push-ups are, especially for girls. However, similar to the plank, this exercise targets not only all parts of your arms, but your abs and shoulders as well. One very important part of doing pushups is making sure you have good form. This ensures that you are getting the most out of the exercise. Similar to the planks, I encourage you do slowly work your way up to becoming a push-up pro. I personally think push-ups are very hard, so if you have to start out in a “girl” push-up position that’s okay. Don’t give up and tone up those arms.
LEGS
Squats
Squats have been said to burn more calories than any other leg exercise. Squats develop all parts of your leg and also tone you butt as well as improve your balance. Squats have many different variations, such as side squats, wide-leg squats, walking squats, squat jumps, ect. Switching up your squat routine will ensure your legs are toned and tightened. Just from going to the Butts and Guts class at the White Building I have already noticed my quads in particular have been gaining a significant amount of muscle definition, and I attribute that to the countless squats we do in class!
I hope you all enjoyed my short exercise advice and use it to tone up for the summer! Have a great break everyday. Stay fit and healthy.