Stick to the basics when you’re short on time but want to get a full body workout in. Daily exercise is very important, but we know it can be very overwhelming with the amount of information available. These 10 exercises can be combined to do as often as a every day or a few times a week. You should see improvement within a month with this simple but very powerful routine.
1. Lunges
Lunges are going to help promote functional movement while challenging your glutes and legs. Make sure you’re standing with your feet shoulder length apart and switch off right then left. Complete three sets on each leg, 10 reps each, and make sure your knee doesn’t go past your foot. Push-ups
2. Push-Ups
Push-ups are one of the most effective bodyweight exercises you can do because of the number of muscles you use to complete them. Begin in a plank position and keep your core tight. Keep your back straight and lower yourself to the floor. Complete as many as possible!
3. Squats
Squats engage some of the largest muscles in your body, so they not only are a great workout, but they burn the most calories. They help increase core lower body strength and increase flexibility. Keep your feet shoulder-length apart and engage your core while you squat. Keep your back straight and hold when you get to a “chair” position. Complete 3 sets of 20 reps.
4. Overhead Dumbbell Presses
Over the shoulder dumbbell presses help work your arms, back and core. Try with a set of lightweight dumbbells if you’re new to working out. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder length apart, and push the dumbbells up over your head slowly, then back down and hold. Try doing 3 reps of 12 to start.
5. Dumbbell Rows
Dumbbell row exercises help keep your back toned and engage your core. You can use the same size dumbbell as the one used for your overhead presses. Keep your waist at a 45-degree angle and hang your weights in front of you. Pull up slowly to the sides of your chest, hold, and then release slowly. Don’t drop the weights, you risk accidentally letting go! Complete 3 reps of 12, same as your previous exercise.
6. Single Leg Dead Lifts
This exercise uses your dumbbell to challenge your balance. Begin by standing with your knees somewhat bent with your dumbbells in your hands. Slowly lean forward, keeping your back straight, and kick out your right leg. Once you’re at a comfortable height, hold and then bring down and do the same with the left leg. Engage your core while doing so! Do the same amount of reps as your lunges.
7. Burpees
We love to hate them, but burpees always delivery. They not only promote cardiovascular health; they also are a whole-body workout that deliver great muscle strength. You can see a video on how to do the right burpee here.
8. Side Planks
Don’t neglect core-strengthening exercises like side planks. Lie on your right side, with one foot stacked onto the other. Prop yourself up with your forearm and then tighten your core to lift yourself off the ground, hips included, and then return to a relaxed state. Focus on the mind to muscle connection and keep the movement controlled for best results. Do 3 sets of 10 reps on each side of your body.
9. Sit-Ups
They may seem basic, but sit-ups are a great form of exercise to target your abdominal muscles if you’re a beginner to working out. Lay on the ground with your knees bent and put your hands behind your head. Roll up to your knees while engaging your core and hold when you reach the top. Release slowly and repeat. Try completing 3 reps of 15 at first.
10. Glute Bridge
The glute bridge effectively works your entire posterior chain, which isn’t only good for you, but will make work on your abs too. Lay on your back with your arms to your sides, knees bent, and push up your hips to the sky. Squeeze your core and contract your glutes when you get to the top and then slowly bring back down to the floor. Complete 3 sets or 10.
