Carrie Underwood is not only a talented singer and performer but also a fitness enthusiast known for her toned and sculpted legs. If you’ve ever wondered how she manages to maintain her incredibly fit lower body, you’re in luck.
In this article, we’ll reveal the ultimate leg workout inspired by Carrie Underwood that will help you achieve strong and shapely legs.
1. Warm-Up
Before diving into the intense leg exercises, it’s crucial to warm up your muscles to prevent injuries. Start with a few minutes of light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks.
Follow it up with dynamic stretches like leg swings and walking lunges to activate your leg muscles.
2. Squats
Squats are a staple leg exercise and a favorite of Carrie Underwood. They target your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower your hips, keeping your back straight.
Push through your heels to return to the starting position. Perform 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
3. Lunges
Lunges are excellent for targeting both your quads and glutes. Take a step forward with one foot, lowering your body until both knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. Push through your front foot to return to the starting position, then alternate legs.
Aim for 3 sets of 12-15 reps on each leg.
4. Single-Leg Deadlifts
This exercise helps strengthen your hamstrings, glutes, and works on your stability. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and shift your weight to one leg. Slowly lower your upper body towards the ground while raising the opposite leg straight behind you.
Return to the starting position and switch sides. Perform 3 sets of 10-12 reps on each leg.
5. Step-Ups
Step-ups target your quads, hamstrings, and glutes while also improving balance and coordination. Find a sturdy bench or step and place one foot on it. Push through the heel of the elevated foot to lift your body onto the step.
Step back down and alternate legs. Aim for 3 sets of 12-15 reps on each leg.
6. Calf Raises
To work on your calf muscles, calf raises are an effective exercise. Stand on the edge of a step or elevated surface with your heels hanging off. Push through the balls of your feet to lift your body upwards.
Lower your heels below the level of the step and repeat. Do 3 sets of 15-20 reps.
7. Glute Bridges
Glute bridges are fantastic for activating your glutes and hamstrings. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Push through your heels, lift your hips, and squeeze your glutes at the top.
Lower your hips back down and repeat for 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
8. Wall Sits
Wall sits are an isometric exercise that targets your quads and glutes. Lean your back against a wall and lower your body until your hips and knees are at 90-degree angles. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds, rest, and repeat for 3 sets.
9. Resistance Band Exercises
Add resistance band exercises to your leg workout to increase the intensity. Place a resistance band around your thighs and perform exercises like lateral walks, clamshells, and glute kickbacks. Complete 3 sets of 12-15 reps for each exercise.
10. Cool-Down and Stretch
After completing the leg workout, spend some time cooling down and stretching your muscles. This will help reduce muscle soreness and increase flexibility. Opt for static stretches that target your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves.