Weight Workout
When performed properly, exercising with weights is the best way to increase muscle tone and improve total body strength. You should always work out with a trainer (or an individual trained in proper weight-lifting techniques) when you begin your own weight-lifting program or try new exercises. Begin with smaller muscle groups and work up to the larger muscle groups — and remember to work opposing muscle groups in an exercising session. And, as always, please check with your doctor before performing any exercise. But don’t worry if you are sore after a couple days of exercising with weights – that’s normal! Check out the pictures and tips on various exercises below. Get ready for lift off!!
Warm-up = Be sure to warm up both your arm and leg muscles before you start your workout. Do 15-20 reps to get the blood flowing and loosen those muscles!
Shoulders = Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Biceps = Bicep Curls with Palms Up, Elbows and Back Against the Wall
Shoulders – Dumbbell Front Press
Posterior Deltoids = Reverse Fly
Chest and Back = Lat Pull-downs to the Front (Tip: Girls Grip Close and Guys Grip Wide)
Quadriceps and Hamstrings = Single Leg Squat; Single Leg Bridge; Step-back Lunge
And remember – it’s very important to stretch when you’re done!
