Working out is super important. It boosts your mood and strengthens your body. It is the ultimate form of self-care. If you’re short on time or can’t get to the gym, don’t worry! There are many exercises that you can do, including these ten exercises that tone and tighten your body.
Mix and match these 10 exercises to create a full-body circuit workout. Start by doing 10 reps of each exercise for a total of three rounds. If you’re still feeling great, add on another round (or two!)
1. Lunges
Lunges increase strength in your legs and gluteus maximus. In other words, they’ll help you get sexy legs and buttocks. Lunges also challenge your balance and promote functional movement. Here’s how to do them.
2. Push-ups
Push-ups work out every part of your body. Do three sets of twelve three times per week. Before long, you’ll be really buff! If you struggle with doing actual push-ups, start out with modified push-ups. Read our exercise spotlight to learn the secrets behind a great push-up.
3. Bending Windmill Stretch
Bend forward, keeping your back straight. Then, reach one arm down and the other arm up as you twist your spine. This works out your core, your shoulders, your gluteus maximus, and your upper legs while giving you a great full-body stretch.
4. Squats
Doing squats strengthens your lower body and your core. It also increases flexibility in your legs and hips. An added benefit is that squats help you burn quite a few calories because they work out some of the largest muscles in your body.
There are several types of squats that you can add to any workout.
5. Dumbbell Rows
This exercise strengthens multiple muscles in your lower body. Make sure that you are squeezing at the top of the movement each time. You will want to choose dumbbells with a moderate weight.
6. 180 Jump
Keep your heart rate up during your circuit with some cardio. Stand up. Jump as high as you can, while turning around. Jump again to face the other way. That’s one rep.
7. Arch Up
We have this exercise listed for kids, but it’s a good move for adults too! Lie down on your stomach with your arms by your side. Lift your head and arch your back off of the floor. Then, slowly roll it back down.
8. Sit-ups
Sit-ups are a convenient way to develop your abdominal muscles. Some may think sit-ups are too basic, but they are a very effective form of exercise. If you struggle with lower back issues, consider doing crunches so that you only have to lift your lower back and shoulders off of the ground.
9. Arm Raises
Work your arms without weights! Stand with your feet shoulder-length apart. Then, keep your hands at your side while your palms are facing forward. Raise your arms up and out to the side until they are at shoulder height.
Lower them to the starting position. It’s important to remember to keep your hips facing forward and your spine straight. Do not forget to keep your breathing fluid and constant.
10. Abdominal Stretch
This is a great way to end your circuit. Reach up as high as you can, and then push your hips forward slightly. As you lengthen the front of your body, you will feel the stretch in your stomach. It’s important to develop your core muscles so that you can maintain a good posture.