Exercise at Home

I love having a membership to the YMCA (because I am employed there), but there are many days I really don't want to get up before dawn (even though I have a great workout buddy), venture out into the snow, and hit the track or treadmill. So, I found some great exercises (on Self.com) to do at home. That way, I have no excuse NOT to exercise!

By the way...sorry for the very scantily dressed model, but I didn't really feel like taking pictures of myself doing these exercises for you all. Maybe some day!

What you need: 5-10 pound weights and a staircase or a step stool

How to do it: Warm up with four minutes of stair-climbing. Then complete one set of 12 reps of each strength move in the order shown with a two-minute cardio break (stair-climb or walk) between exercises. Do the routine up to four times a week on alternate days for stare worthy results in one month!!

1. Lunge and curl

Stand facing stairs with a weight in each hand. Lunge forward, placing left foot one or two steps up so left thigh is parallel to ground, and curl weights toward shoulders (as shown). Push off left foot to return to start. Repeat on right for one rep. Do reps.
works biceps, butt, thighs

2. Climb Time: Walk two minutes up the stairs. Keep abs tight! If you are using a step stool, just walk in place!!


3. The extender

Stand on edge of stair, heels hanging off, with a weight in each hand. Rise onto balls of feet as you raise arms out to sides at shoulder level (as shown). Slowly lower to start; repeat. Do reps.
works shoulders, upper back, abs, butt, calves

4. Climb Time: Walk two minutes up the stairs. Keep abs tight.


For the rest of the workout, click here to see the "how-to" video and a printable version of the workout...I figured I would just whet your appetite!!

Coming Thursday....exercises to do at the office, or in your chair at home!!