Tag Archives: lower body

Saturday Morning Drill: Lower Body Blitz

It’s the weekend – time to relax, unwind and blow off some steam from a long work week, right? What better way to de-stress than with exercise? Today we have a simple, 7-move workout that requires no equipment and tones and tightens your entire lower body. Get ready for classics like deep squats and side kicks, as well as a few new moves like the “runner’s start” and standing split kicks.

So get your workout gear on and do this workout, no matter if you’re at home, outside or spending time at a friend’s house. If you have 10-15 minutes, you have time to whip your lower body into shape. Let’s get started! And afterwards, don’t forget to check out these 5 tips to survive the weekend.

Posted on March 9, 2024 by Dana

Saturday Morning Drills: Shape and Tone Your Legs with Ankle Weights

March is here which means one thing – spring will soon arrive and bikini season will be next. You’ve been working hard on that New Year’s resolution by cleaning up your diet and keeping a consistent workout regimen. But what else can you do to make sure those legs are bikini ready? If you’re looking for more ways to shape and tone your legs, than you’ve stumbled across the right read.

For this week’s Saturday Morning Drill, all you need is a pair of ankle weights. Ankle weights can range from two pounds each all the way up to 10. If you’ve never used them before, I recommend starting out on the lower end of that scale. Incorporating these simple devices into your workouts can be more difficult than they come across. (more…)

Posted on March 2, 2024 by Danielle

Fit in 5: Best Exercises for a Lower Body Injury

By Pamela Hernandez

Whether it comes from a workout or simply stepping off the curb the wrong way, a lower body injury is bound to occur at some point or another in our athletic lives. Injury, of any kind, can be extremely frustrating. Some injuries can be mild, like an ankle sprain, and simply require a few days of rest. Others, like a broken foot, can mean weeks off your feet.

Our bodies feel the effects of not working out very quickly. While your body does need extra nutrients to heal, it’s often not as many as you burn with your workout. Energy goes down and we can feel more “jiggly” and less strong. When we’re sidelined we can also feel the effects mentally, not only losing the post workout endorphin rush but also a part of our routine and identity.

The good news is, unless specifically forbidden by your doctor, there are exercises and activities you can do to keep working without aggravating conditions such as plantar fasciitis or a sprained ankle. The following exercises are my top picks for those fighting a lower body injury. Just remember, when healing especially, rest is important, too. Take your intensity and frequency down a bit until your body is ready to take on more. (more…)

Posted on August 24, 2023 by Pamela

Zero Weights, Zero Problem: Strength Training Without Weights

In order for the body to build muscle, it needs to be stressed. When done with the proper form, the body has no choice but to break down muscle tissue which will then result in muscle hypertrophy. If you’re looking to build muscle (or tone what you do have) but can’t afford the expenses that come along with it, we’ve put together a list of body weight exercises you can do at home with little or no cost at all.

Whether it’s the gym membership costs, the at-home gym equipment you can’t afford, or just the lack of time keeping you from the gym, these strength exercises will be sure help you get the job done right in your own home.

Also Read:

How to Combine Strength Training and Pull Ups to Get Results

Sexy Summer Abs Circuit Workout

Post-Workout Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe

Posted on June 13, 2023 by Danielle

Saturday Morning Drills: Get Gorgeous Calves

Looking for ways to get gorgeous calves? We have the best exercises to get you those envious calves in no time! The calf muscles are made up of two main muscles; the gastrocnemius and soleus. These muscles are used every time you walk, run and go up and down stairs. In order to get the defined calves you are looking for try to following exercises two to three times a week. If you are looking to also lose weight include this with additional lower body strength training and cardio for best results.

Before you start the exercises below make sure you are properly warmed up by walking or jogging for at least ten minutes. Always use proper form and avoid doing these exercises daily to avoid injury.

Calf Raise

This exercise is good to do if you don’t have access to gym equipment. Calf raises can be done freestanding on just about anything raised up (e.g. stairs, blocks, books, etc.) or even from the floor. For more of a challenge they can be done one leg at a time. To work the inside of your calves, set your feet farther apart and rise up onto the inside balls of your feet. To work the outside, set your feet in close and rise up on the outside balls of your feet. Do not turn your toes in or out as this will put stress on your knees.

Leg Press Machine

This machine is primarily used for the upper legs but shifting your feet slightly will put the focus on your calves. If the machine plate is adjustable, set it a little bit higher. While sitting in the seat and starting with a lower weight (until you figure out how much is best for you) place your toes near the bottom of the pressing plate (where your heels would normally go). Use your toes to push the plate and then slowly let it come back down. (more…)

Posted on May 19, 2023 by Kristina

Saturday Morning Drills: Stretches for Your Upper and Lower Body

Whenever I workout, especially after a hard workout, I always make sure to spend some time stretching. For me, stretching is like the dessert of my workout, it’s my favorite part. I love feeling my heart and breath slow down while I lean into a deep stretch. It helps me wind down both physically and mentally.

So, how important is it to stretch? Some benefits of stretching include decreasing pain and soreness after exercise, improves circulation, range of motion, and posture. It also decreases muscle tension and soreness.

If you lack time, you do not need to stretch after every workout. However, if you’ve just finished a hard workout or a new workout, make sure you allow time for it.

Before starting any kind of stretch make sure your body is warmed up. You will increase the risk of injury if you try to stretch “cold” muscles.

During your stretching it is important to keep a couple things in mind. Always stretch slowly (even if you’re in a hurry) and always stretch both sides of the body. Hold each stretch for at least 15 seconds and make sure you are breathing! People tend to hold their breath while stretching and this could lead to injury, and also prevents the muscles from getting the oxygen they need. Never bounce or jerk while stretching and avoid over-stretching. Never push your stretch to the point you are feeling sharp pain or discomfort. (more…)

Posted on April 14, 2024 by Kristina