People often shy away from starting a workout routine because they think the exercises will be too difficult or strenuous on their bodies. Hanson Fitness of New York has the experience to know that this is simply not true. Nothing is better for your body than exercise, and as such there is simply no excuse to hold it off any longer. Owner of Hanson Fitness and Celebrity Trainer Harry Hanson, who has trained stars such as Sandra Bullock and Tyra Banks, tells us about 5 easy exercises to kick-start your fitness regime and boost your motivation.
Harry says –
The key to starting and successfully maintaining a workout regime is finding exercises that work for you. There’s no pointin going full steam ahead if you end up exhausted and burnt out after a week – you need to start slowly, with easy exercises thatcan be made more challenging as you grow stronger.
1. SQUATS
Squats are a classic exercise, great for burning fat and building a booty! They can be done on their own, or alongside cardio. A full-body exercise, squats work the muscles in your thighs and buttocks, helping you drop the pounds and gain strength.Once you’ve mastered body weight squats, you’ll be ready to move onto weightedsquats in no time.
HOW TO DO IT:
Maintaining a neutral spine, stand with your feet slightly more than shoulder width apart as you extend your arms out straight in front. Keep your palms facing down and your hips relaxed, sending them back as you bend your knees. As your bum sticks out, keep your back straight and face forward. Push up through your heels and engage your core as you return to standing.
2. HEAD LIFTS
It’s well known that ab exercises are great for toning up and (ideally) gaining a flat tummy. But, the issue with doing standard sit-ups or crunches, is that it only works one part of your abdominal muscles. Head lifts help you to achieve an all- over workout and ease into an easy workout regime.
HOW TO DO IT:
Lie on the floor, on your back, with your knees bent. Make sure to keep your feet flat on the floor. As you inhale, allow your belly to expand. Exhale and imagine pulling your stomach in towards your spine. Tuck your chin towards your chest as you raise your head off the floor for two counts. Rest your head down slowly for two counts. Repeat as many times as you can.
3. SKIPPING
Skipping isn’t just for kids – it’s a full body workout that’s so easy to do. All you need is a skipping rope – ideally a heavy-weight PVC one – as it’ll allow you to jump slowly, building up your stamina. Once you’ve got used to it, you canswap to a lighter rope for increased intensity.
HOW TO DO IT:
There are so many versions of skipping, but as it’s all about easy exercises, start with the basics. Swing the rope over your head and jump as it reaches your feet. Don’t focus too much on jumping high, just keep up the pace and ensure you clear the rope. Keep going for one minute, then rest for one minute. Repeat.
4. WALL PUSH-UPS
Before you take the plunge into full-on push-ups, why not try the simpler version? No equipment is required, and they can be done pretty much anywhere!
HOW TO DO IT:
Stand against a wall, about an arms-length away. Place your hands flat on the wall, with your fingers pointing upwards. Slowly bend your arms, keeping your back straight and your elbows tucked in. Lean towards the wall, aiming to close the gap as
much as you can. Imagine you’re trying to touch the wall with your nose!
5. SIDE LYING LEG LIFTS
Making the transition from sofa-lover to gym-lover isn’t easy, but with an exercise you can do lyingdown, what could be easier? Leg lifts strengthen your core and give you toned pins at the same time.
HOW TO DO IT:
Lie on your side, using your arm to prop up your head. Engage your core as you lift your leg off the ground. The more controlled the lift is, the better. Try not to worry about getting your leg really high – it’s best to master your form first. Repeat in sets of10 on both sides.
About the Author:
Hanson Fitness gyms provide the best personal training sessions in NYC. Their training studios are spacious, bright and with state of the art equipment. Celebrity Trainer Harry Hanson has been in the business for over 30 years. He presently owns and operates three personal fitness training studios and owns the American Academy of Personal Training fitness schools. He and his fellow trainers strive to help you achieve your personal goals.
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
