Lunges!
Hey Ladies, listen up–this one is for you!
Lunges are one of the best exercises for toning and strengthening your legs and butt.
Fellas, don’t think this means you don’t have to bother with them, though–lunges should be a staple of anyone and everyone’s fitness regimen.
Lunges, along with squats and deadlifts, are a crucial part of what I like to call “the big 3″ leg exercises. They hit all the major parts of your lower body, they get your heart pumping,
and they are great for revving up your metabolism.
Lunges can be performed by stepping forward and then lowering yourself down until your back knee is just above the ground. Typically, one might alternate legs, continuing forward with each step (often called a “walking lunge”).
Lunges with a twist!
Lunges can also be done by stepping backwards (“back lunge”), side ways (you guessed it–”side lunge”), or any other way you can think to do them. A stationary lunge is sometimes called a “split squat.”
When doing lunges, stay mindful of keeping your front foot totally flat and not letting the heel up (the heel of your back foot ought to be up, however). Also make sure to keep your posture and don’t allow your front knee to cross in front of your toes.
For added resistance you can perform lunges while holding dumbbells, resting a barbell on your back, using a kettlebell, or any other way that you see fit to. Get creative!
