Everyone knows that health and fitness are important. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. At the end of the day fitness just gets pushed to the bottom of the list. Well, the holiday season is upon us, which means lots of food and treats that we look forward to all year. It’s time to start thinking about taking care of the body that God has given you. In light of preparation for the New Year and lack of time we all experience, I have put together five basic full body exercises that I love to do! First, before you begin your workout start with something like jumping jacks to warm up. I usually do around thirty, but whatever it takes to get you warm and ready will be fine.
- Around the world – this is a great ab exercise that works on multiple abdominal muscles at the same time. Lay on the ground like you’re about to do a sit-up. Pull yourself up with your abs and rotate clockwise for three sets of ten. Then do the same thing counterclockwise.
- Back step lunge with or without weight: For this exercise, you’re going to step back into a lunge rather than stepping forward. It’s important to keep your form in mind when doing this exercise, so I suggest doing it in front of a mirror. Do three sets of ten on each leg with whatever weight you feel comfortable using.
- Push-ups: Do three sets of ten push-ups. If you cannot do ten regular push-ups, you can adjust it by doing modified push-ups. To do a modified push-up, balance your body on your knees instead of the balls of your feet.
- Leg raises: lay flat on your back, squeeze your legs together, and either flex or point your toes. Lift your legs then put them back down. Continue to do this for three sets of ten, if this is too challenging switch to placing your hands under your bottom.
- Wall sits with or without weights: Sit against the wall and hold your legs at a 90-degree angle. Hold for three sets of 30 seconds.
Once you’ve finished, end with an exercise cool down such as running in place or dancing to your favorite beat! I hope you enjoy these exercises as much as I do. Remember to do these with the best of your ability. It is ok to start off slow, but don’t be afraid to push yourself!
Article Written by: Abigail Mechling
