2/27/11 Spring Back to Shape

The temperature is rising. It’s time to say good-bye to the layers of clothing and hello to shorts, tank tops, and bathing suits. Don’t panic!!! You, still, have time to get in the shape you desire. The time to start is NOW!!! No more excuses of “holiday weight gain”. It’s been six weeks since the New Year, and it’s time to get serious. Let’s get some use from that gym membership that you signed up for in January (and stopped using in February). Here are some ways to get your butt back to the gym and a few exercises to help you slim down and get you ready for that spring break get-away.

3 Ways to Get Back to the Gym:

  • Find a class that you are interested in or a personal trainer to help motivate you. Working out shouldn’t be a chore. Find something that you enjoy doing and stick with it. Going to the gym will be part of your daily routine. At the gym, work hard. Just showing up at the gym and going through the motions won’t get you the results you want.
  • Get a workout buddy. Working out can be a time for bonding with a friend or significant other. Lean on each other for support and motivation. You are more likely to keep the routine going when you are having fun, and when you have someone else motivating you.
  • Get new workout clothes. When you have something new, you, usually, want to show it off. Get rid of those beat up gym shoes and old gym clothes and show off the new you. Try out the new ForwardFit tank tops!

3 Key Exercises

  • Lunges: Forward lunges, backward lunges, walking lunges, side lunges, step up lunges are all amazing for toning the front, back, inner and outer thighs. Lunges, also, give you the firm, round butt that you have always wanted. Start doing lunges and you will be in “shorts shape” in no time.
  • Lat Pull Downs: There are two exercises using the lat pull down machine that are fantastic for the upper and mid-back area. Ladies, do you want to get rid of that bra fat? Well, here is how. If you have never used the lat machine, ask a trainer at the gym to set you up. Getting that exact spot you want to target can be a little tricky.
  • Pushups: No need to have to get fancy with your workouts. Pushups are, still, one of the best ways to tone and firm the arms. Traditional pushups on the floor target the triceps, chest, and, also, strengthen your core. If you want to make the pushups more intense, put your feet on a bench. Remember to keep your elbows tightly by your side.

-Shannon Flanagan