I don’t know about you but jumping into a new workout routine can seem extremely daunting. There are thousands of fitness accounts on Instagram and hundreds of workout plans – where do you start? Whether you’re looking for a few moves to master before you git the machines or just need some effective moves you can do at home, these are the eight exercises that you definitely need to try if you’re looking to get stronger and crush your goals.
Looking for a routine you can do at home? Try each move for 3 sets of 12 reps!
ONE
Squats are great for working your quads and glutes (the booty). Start with a standard format (legs shoulder width apart) and then progress to a more narrow stance or add a barbell for more resistance.
Pro tip: hinge at your hips to lower instead of leaning forward tp squat.
TWO
Lunges are another great booty shaper and you can switch things up for different levels. I like walking lunges to get my heart rate up or you can add dumbbells to increase the resistance.
Pro tip: make sure you’re going straight down instead of literally lunging forward to avoid putting pressure on your knees.
THREE
Push ups have always been a challenge for me but they are so great for building your upper body strength. Start on your knees to make things a little easier and then progress to standard push ups once you feel strong enough to push up without sacrificing form (i.e. arching your back or hurting shoulders).
Pro tip: try doing a few pushups each morning when you wake up to build strength.
FOUR
I love tricep dips. When it comes to upper body days we tend to focus on biceps or shoulders/backs and can neglect this muscle (the backs of your arms). You can do tricep dips on the floor or on a bench so they’re great for home workouts.
Pro tip: for a challenge, try raising one leg and engaging your core.
FIVE
Another great lower body move is the glute bridge. The name alone hints at the part you’ll be working most: the booty. Squeeze as you lift and pause at the top for an extra pump.
Pro tip: add a weighted plate or dumbbell for extra resistance.
SIX
Oh, the plank. I have a love hate relationship with this one. Not only are you working your upper body and your core but it’s one of those moves that just seems to always be a challenge…in a good way.
Pro tip: you can rest on elbows or straight arms for this one.
SEVEN
Ab twists are one of my favorite core moves. Raise your feet of the ground for a true challenge and make sure you’re keeping your abs tights the entire twist.
Pro tip: use a dumbbell or kettlebell to add resistance.
EIGHT
Leg raises are a great way to engage your core and work on the muscle in your lower tummy. Go slow and make sure your back is to the floor (don’t arch).
Pro tip: try ankle weights or add a mini pulse at the bottom of each move for a challenge.
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