Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to get in shape before hitting the beach, there’s no time like the present to get started! Regular exercise is the key to achieving a lean, toned physique, and there are many different approaches you can take to make it happen. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of seven effective exercises you can try in order to get fit for summer.
1. Running
Running is one of the most popular forms of cardio exercise. Not only is it an effective way to burn calories, but it can also help strengthen your lower body muscles, improve your endurance, and boost your overall fitness level.
Start by incorporating short runs into your workout routine, gradually increasing the distance over time. If you have trouble with joint pain or other issues, consider adding intervals of high-intensity exercise to your routine instead.
2. Squats
Squats are one of the most effective exercises for building lower body strength and toning your legs and glutes. To do a squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, then lower yourself down as if you were sitting in a chair.
Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the movement. As you come back up, be sure to squeeze your glutes and drive your hips forward to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise. Aim for three sets of 10-15 reps per session.
3. Push-Ups
Push-ups are an excellent way to build upper body strength, working your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles all at once. To do a push-up, start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart.
Lower yourself down until your chest is just above the floor, then push back up to the starting position. If you’re just starting out, you can modify the exercise by doing push-ups from your knees instead of your feet.
4. Lunges
Lunges are another great lower body exercise that can help tone your legs and glutes. To do a lunge, step forward with one foot while keeping your other foot stationary.
Lower yourself down until your front thigh is parallel to the ground, then push back up to the starting position. Alternate legs with each rep, aiming for three sets of 10-15 reps per session.
5. Plank
The plank is a simple but effective core exercise that can help build strength in your abs, back, and stabilizer muscles. To do a plank, start in a push-up position with your forearms on the ground.
Keep your back straight and your core engaged, holding the position for as long as you can. Aim for at least 30 seconds per set, gradually increasing the time as your strength improves.
6. Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility, balance, and overall fitness level. There are many different styles of yoga to choose from, each with its own unique benefits.
Whether you prefer a gentle hatha class or a more challenging vinyasa flow, incorporating yoga into your workout routine can help you achieve a leaner, more toned physique, while also boosting your mental and emotional well-being.
7. HIIT
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a popular workout style that involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise.
This type of workout is a great way to burn fat and build muscle at the same time, while also improving your overall fitness level. You can incorporate HIIT into your workout routine in a variety of ways, from doing sprints on a treadmill to doing plyometric exercises like jumping jacks and burpees.
Getting in shape for summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating these seven effective exercises into your workout routine, you can build strength, burn calories, and achieve the lean, toned physique you’ve been dreaming of.
Remember to start slowly and work your way up gradually, and don’t forget to include plenty of rest and recovery time in your routine as well!.