Lift and Swing

Fit Day Friday

I always used to think, since I ran every day, my legs must be as strong as they could be, but I was very wrong. Although I definitely had gained strength in my legs from running, the act alone doesn't tone your leg muscles as much as it does contribute to shaving off excess fat on your legs (and other parts of your body, of course). That is why it is so important to combine cardio exercise with strengthening exercise so that you get trimmed and toned at the same time. Both types of workouts compliment the other and actually can work faster with your body in regards to seeing and feeling results. This leg exercise is great to do pre- or post-running and only takes about 5 minutes. Use a yoga mat or towel as it involves laying on the floor. Lay extended  on your left side with your head propped up with your left hand and right hand on your hip. Lift your right leg straight up and back down 10 times at a pace of about 2 seconds for each lift. Then raise your right leg so it just hovers above your left leg, and swing it side to side while extended straight out 10 times at a pace of about 2 seconds for each swing. Repeat this 3 times on your left side before switching to repeat the entire exercise on your right side. Keep one of my favorite sayings in mind as you push through to the end- "The burn says it's working!"

*Remember to keep your legs straight for the entire workout! You will want to bend it a bit as you start to get tired, but resist the urge and stay strong. Your toned legs will thank you later.
*Do this first thing in the morning when you wake up and/or right before you go to bed! It's so quick that it will be a great start and/or end to your busy day.