We all know how vital exercise is to living a healthy life—I mean, you’re on a gym’s blog. But your fitness routine shouldn’t be limited to just the few moves you’re comfortable doing.
Adding a variety of exercises to your daily workout regimen could make all the difference—whether you’re trying to shed a few pounds or tone up. So step out of your comfort zone and make the most out of your workouts with these five exercises you should be doing more.
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- Planks
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- Rows
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- Side Step Ups
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- Loaded Squats
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- Reverse Wood Chops
1. Planks – This exercise has been hyped up so much, but does anyone actually know why? (We do!) To get a strong midsection (abs and waist), you want to train your core to resist flexing. This is because your ab and back muscles are the supporters of the lower spine, so your goal should be to make them as firm as possible. Planks and other core exercises challenge your stability without the back strain that sit-ups and crunches are likely to cause.
2. Side Step Ups – Front-to-back exercises—running, walking, etc.—can be extremely repetitive, so why not train your body sideways too? It’s beneficial to work out your inner and outer thighs, obliques, and side glutes to round out your strength. Plus, you will find your balance improved, become more toned, and even run better.
3. Rows – It’s no question that a lot of what we do throughout the day involves our chest, abs, biceps, etc. But many of us forget how useful back exercises are for your body. Pulling exercises such as rows will help strengthen your back to improve balance and posture. You’ll look that much better in backless clothing styles.
4. Loaded Squats – The benefits of strength training are endless—do this when you want to stronger bones, build muscle, tone up, and even rev up your metabolism. Adding weights to your squat exercises will boost your calorie burn since the glute and leg muscles are the largest in the body. Grab some dumbbells and get going!
5. Reverse Wood Chops – For a huge metabolism boost, moving multiple muscles at once is the way to go. The reverse wood chop move is helpful in working out your body in a way that is more natural to the way it moves everyday—you’re mimicking the movement of picking something up off the ground. Doing this works the muscles in your arms, shoulders, and core.
What are your go-to exercises you add to your fitness routine? Share yours with us on Facebook and Twitter: @LucilleRoberts
