You know exercise is good for you, but sometimes, that just isn’t enough to mentally and physically get you up and working out. For me, the hardest part is finding enough time during the day to work out, since I have a full-time job and make videos for YouTube on the side. So I try to utilize the time I do have to hit total body work outs—legs, arms, abs, and booty! Whether you work full-time, part-time and go to school, or are just a busy-bee and need some tips on which exercises effectively target and strengthen your major muscles, then I’ve got just the regiment for you. Here are my favorite easy and fun exercises:
(Photo Credit: Instagram @Tiffunk)
1 - Squats with weighted bar
Squatting is one of the most productive if not the best exercises out there. It not only builds muscle for your legs, but your glutes, core, and lower back as well.
- Feet should be flat on the ground, about shoulder-width apart, feet pointed forward.
- Use a 10 lbs – 25 lbs weighted bar. Place the bar over your trapezius muscle, not over your neck, and handle the bar in a comfortable position.
- Look straight ahead with your back straight, knees slightly bent, hips forward and core engaged. Lower yourself slowly in a controlled manner and come back up.
- Do 4 sets of 20
2 - Russian Twist with medicine ball
This exercise engages your core (ab) muscles. You can use a medicine ball or a 5 lbs plate for this exercise.
- Lie down on the floor placing your feet either under something that will not move. Your legs should be bent at the knees.
- Bring your upper body up so that you form a V shape at your torso.
- Twist your torso to the right side until your arms are parallel with the floor while breathing out – hold for a second – then perform this on the left side.
- Do 4 sets of 20
3 - Mountain climbers
Mountain climbers are a total body exercise. They activate your deltoids, biceps, obliques, abs, quads, hamstrings and hip abductors/adductors. This one will definitely get you sweating!
- Start in a push-up position with your hands directly under your chest at shoulder width apart.
- Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your ankles.
- First, lift your right food off the floor and slowly raise your knee close to your chest as possible, return to the starting position and repeat with your left leg.
- Continue alternating
- Do 3 sets of 12
I hope this motivates you to get up, work out, and get summer ready!
Xx, Tiffany
YouTube videos: Tiffany Tsan
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