Friday, June 7, 2013

The ultimate total body workout

Sometimes its hard to think of what to do at the gym...especially if you aren't really in the mood to workout (and don't worry the anti-gym plague has hit us all at one time or another). We have come up with 3 of the best total body workouts that are beneficial and yes...they can be fun! Add these to your normal workout routine or do them all together along with some cardio and you're set.

Push-ups:
We know you have all heard of push-ups, which are known to work your arms and chest BUT...if you do them correctly they will also work your core and if done correctly are sometimes more beneficial than sit-ups!! To make sure you are firing up your core, be sure to keep your back straight and squeeze your glutes throughout the whole exercise.

For beginners start with upper body on an elevated surface like a wall or bench. As you get stronger work your way down to the floor. Start with low reps (10-15) and perfect form to get the full benefit of the exercise

 

Dumbbell front squat:
Squatting is one of the most beneficial exercises to include in your workout if you are aiming to burn bodyfat or gain strength. Since it works the largest muscle groups in your body and forces you to engage your core throughout the exercise it is known to have many positive benefits. It is crucial to do the proper form when squatting to avoid injury and reep the awesome benefits. When adding dumbbells in this position, it not only works your shoulders but adds more resistance for your core and assists you in getting into a lower squat.
 
 
 
Dumbbell Single Leg deadlift:
When done correctly this is one of the most BEST full body/core exercises possible.  The key is to keep your back and shoulders engaged by keeping a straight back and squeeze your opposite glute. Keep weights as close to shins as possible and let weights go half way down your shin before coming up. This challenges your balance so make sure to start with weights that you can control and a slower speed.  We recommend starting at 5-8lb. dumbbells and then working up in weight once that becomes easy

 





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