We all have seen them…. The perfect pair of legs walking right by you.
You can’t help but think “how do I get those?” or “Man they must spend hours a day working out to get those.”
In fact it’s actually not that hard to get those nicely toned legs you’re dreaming about. Here are a few simple workouts that by spending some time doing everyday you’ll have those legs in no time!
- Lunges- This is the best leg exercise because it works all the muscles in your legs with one simple move. Standing with your feet shoulder width apart take one giant step forward with your right foot. Place your hands on your hips for balance. Now, lower your body straight down until your back leg forms a right angle at the knee. Remember to keep your back straight and breathe. Now raise yourself up using only your legs muscles and repeat on the left foot. Do 3 sets of 30 repetitions on each leg.
- Heel raises- The best thing about this exercise is that it can be done anywhere at anytime without people looking at you funny. These you don’t have to do as often as the others because your calf muscles respond to exercises much faster than the others. Stand with your feet about shoulder length apart place your hands on your hips for balance and rise up to your tiptoes and hold for 3-5 seconds and slowly go back to normal flat position. Repeat this exercise for 3 sets of 40 reps. Once you’re ready for a challenge perform this exercise on stairs and allow your heels to hang and then do the raises for al ultimate calf workout.
- Plies- This exercise targets the inner and outer thighs. It can also be as intense or moderate as you need. You may also know this exercise if you’ve taken Yoga it’s called the Warrior Pose. Stand with your feet slightly more than shoulder width apart and take a small step out with each foot and turn your foot out to the side. Place your hands on your hips for balance if you’re a beginner or over your head if you’re a bit experienced. Lower your body slowly down and raise it back up slowly. Repeat 3 sets of 30 reps.
- Box Jumps- For this exercise you want to perform on a sturdy bench or plyometric box. Always start small with the bench or box little below your knees. Stand in front of your bench or box bend your knees and push down with your legs to get height to jump onto your box. Do 2 sets of 30 reps. If you happen to get tired you can also perform step ups and alternate between each leg.
- Not so ordinary workout- Depending on the time of year either go ice skating or rollerblading. You must have balance and control when doing either of these activities and it not only works out your legs but it also helps strengthen your core and back because you are trying to find your center at all times.
Although these sound pretty easy don’t underestimate the powers of a good workout session. Just remember to keep pushing and most importantly breathe. Your muscles need oxygen and if you’re constantly holding your breath you are going to be one sore person the next day.
Jeff writes about how living healthier helps reduce insurance premiums for the term life insurance blog.
