Living Magazine Spring 2016 | Page 8

® Slim, Sassy & Strong Do Anywhere Exercise Routine You don’t need a gym full of machines to get an amazing workout, the most effective exercises are those that use several muscle groups synergistically to mimic real world movements that you can do with nothing, but a fixed surface…such as the ground. All movement is initiated through your body’s Exercise Plan to a Strong Lower Body Do each exercise for 30 seconds at high intensity. Complete each movement uninterrupted before moving on to the next, in a circuit fashion. Rest for 30 seconds (or as long as needed) after completing the entire circuit and repeat two more times. As you become stronger and the routine becomes less challenging, increase intensity by incorporating added resistance via a weight vest or dumbbells. Do this twice a week as part of your full-body exercise plan. “core”: your hips, glutes, and supporting abdominal musculature. Whether bending down to pick up your child’s toy or lifting a heavy box above your head, those muscles are crucial. You are not going to build that slim, sassy, and strong core and lower body by sitting on a machine. For those of us itching to experience some sun and fresh air after a winter stuck inside, the world is your gym and the ground is your equipment. 8 / SPRING 2016 LIVING MAGAZINE 1. Squat Jumps WORKS QUADRICEPS, GLUTES, AND HAMSTRINGS Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and place your hands behind your head as if you were in a crunch position on the ground. Keep the chest up and your arms in place, and squat down as low as you can (remember form: sit back and keep the knees in line with your toes). Explode up into a jump, getting your feet off the ground as much as possible. Land in a squat position and repeat.