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| HEALTH ARTICLES |
Easy Shape-up Routine
Haven't been hitting the gym lately? There's still time to get in shape! Simply do these four classic -- and always effective -- exercises three times a week. When combined with three weekly 45-minute cardio sessions, they'll shape up your toughest-to-tone body parts in no time.
Walking Lunge (for legs and butt)
Begin by taking a giant step forward with your right foot. Lower your body until your right thigh is parallel to the floor. Push off with your left foot, and take a giant step forward with that leg. Lower your body again until your left thigh is parallel to the floor. Repeat the sequence as many times as you can, "walking" down a hall, across your living room or in your backyard.
Squat (for butt)
Stand with your feet hip-distance apart, abs pulled in. Slowly bend your legs and lower your butt as if you were sitting in a chair. Your knees should remain directly over your feet as you do this. Go down as far as you can, with the ultimate goal of getting your thighs parallel to the ground. Hold for three counts, then return to standing. Repeat as many times as you can.
Push-up (for chest, arms and back)
Get on your hands and knees on the floor. Keeping your knees on the ground, walk your hands forward until your body forms a straight line from your head to your knees. Be sure your hands are directly below your shoulders. Slowly lower your chest toward the floor, then return to your starting position. Repeat as many times as you can.
Mini-crunch (for abs)
Lie on your back, hands behind your head, elbows out to the sides. Bend your knees and plant your feet flat on the ground. Using your abdominal muscles, lift your shoulders one inch (only one inch!) off the ground. Hold for two counts, then lower. Repeat as many times as you can.
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