The supine leg raise is often used to target the lower abs. However, when the legs are elevated from a supine position, the hip flexors become the prime movers, not the abs. Leg raises can put stress on the lumbar spine. Thus, alternative exercises are recommended. It is also important to note that the midsection is not divided into lower and upper halves. The rectus abdominis is one muscle.
The prone (face down) bridge or plank is a great exercise if you are trying to develop the core. This exercise is unique in that it is done from a static position. There are no repetitive movements. The prone bridge strengthens the lower back, as well as several muscles in the upper body. If you are new to exercise, consider starting with a modified version of the prone bridge, then progress to a full bridge. A workout mat is recommended.
The one arm dumbbell chest press is perfect for strengthening the pectoralis (chest) muscles. Most chest exercises involve compound movements, or the use of more than one joint. Invariably, the triceps and anterior deltoid are often involved in chest exercises.
Cable crossovers are great for building and shaping the chest muscles. This exercise is performed using a cable pulley machine. First, ensure that the cable pulley is mounted above shoulder height. Adjust the weight (usually a weight stack) as needed.
The use of heavy duty resistance bands (also referred to as "Powerlifting Bands") as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. The bands are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
The use of heavy duty resistance bands (also referred to as "Powerlifting Bands") as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. The bands are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
If you are trying to work the hips and butt, this exercise is for you! The side kick mainly targets the gluteus muscles. Any movement away from the center of the body is known as "abduction."
The outer thigh lift is a great way to work the butt. Whenever leg abduction (movement away from the midline of the body) takes place, the gluteus muscles are involved. Instructions for the outer thigh lift are as follows:
The gluteal muscles, or glutes, can be targeted with donkey kicks. This exercise is easy to perform and does not require any fancy equipment. The donkey kick is a classic "butt" exercise, and there are many variations of the original donkey kick. Instructions for the donkey kick exercise are listed below:
The stiff leg deadlift is a great exercise for the hamstring and glute areas. The movement is relatively easy to perform. The key is to keep the lower back flat as you bend at the waist. Do not round the back on the way down. The preferred feet position is about shoulder width apart or less. The stiff leg deadlift can also be performed with the feet together.
If you want to improve balance and strength in the leg muscles, try the single leg deadlift (also called the single leg Romanian deadlift). This exercise is primarily going to work your hamstrings and butt. The single leg deadlift comes with a high degree of difficulty because it is performed on one leg. An advanced level of balance and muscular control is required for this exercise. Here are the instructions:
The dumbbell toe raise (aka dumbbell calf raise) mainly works the upper portion of the calves or the gastrocnemius. Three items are needed for this exercise: 1) a supportive apparatus for balance 2) an elevated surface (e.g. aerobic step, 2 x 4, etc.) to allow for full range of motion 3) a dumbbell.
If you are looking for an easy way to work the calf muscles, consider this exercise. The calf is scientifically known as the gastrocnemius (upper portion). The soleus or bottom half of the calf works as a synergist during this exercise.
The 45 degree leg press is a great way to work the muscles of the hip and thigh. You might see 45 degree leg press machine referred to as a "hip sled." This exercise is commonly used as an alternative to the squat. Instructions for the 45 degree leg press are as follows:
The use of chains as a strength training aid has become increasingly popular over recent years. Chains are used for accommodating resistance; a technique that involves creating maximal tension throughout a full range of motion.
The crossover lunge is an advanced exercise that is used to build strength and improve flexibility in the muscles that act on the hips and thighs. The crossover step is often used as a warm-up to prepare for more dynamic exercises or sports conditioning drills.
There are a number of unconventional training methods which can be used to improve strength. The truck pull is one of them. When performing this exercise, the speed at which the vehicle can be pulled is very slow. Thus, it is ideal for building strength in the lower body.
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If you want to work your shoulders, upper arms, and upper back all at the same time, you've got to try doing a two-minute headstand. It's ok if you've never done one in your life or if you can't balance upsidedown. Check out this yoga how-to video tutorial and do your headstand in front of the wall. You can rest your feet against the wall and focus on staying like this for two minutes. If you want, work on moving your feet away from the wall and balance for two minutes. Whichever variation yo...
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Learn how to exercise by doing the lying dumbbell tricep extension on stability ball. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the overhead tricep extension with V bar. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the tricep self stretch with yoga strap. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted rectus femoris stretch. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the lying 1 leg extension on bench with ankle weight. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the rectus femoris self stretch with yoga strap. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the seated leg extension with ankle weight. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted it band massage with foam roller. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted it band stretch. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the it band self stretch with yoga strap. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the side lying hip abduction with ankle weight. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the standing cable hip abduction with hip rotation. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the standing hip abduction with ankle weight. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted sternocleidomastoideus stretch on bench. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted lat stretch on table. EXERCISE DETAILS:
Learn how to exercise by doing the assisted hamstrings stretch on table. EXERCISE DETAILS:
