Movement and Workout--March 21

Who doesn't want great legs for summertime shorts and swim suits!  Well, all of my spring workouts will help tone and get you looking your best before the warm weather hits!  Everyday a new exercise, everyday a few steps closer to a 'summer ready' you! Grab some water, your iPod, your dog, and most of all, your smile!

Today's workout...Hill Sprints for Spring!

Find a hill.  Small, large, mountain, trail....start with your ability level.
First, walk up the hill keeping a faster pace.  This is to help you be aware of holes, rocks, uneven terrain and warming up your legs.  Jog down and repeat until you feel warmed up (Elevated heart rate and a little sweat?  You're warm!)

Things to keep in mind:
1) Use your arms when running up hill (and down, too).  Your arms help you keep you balance but also keep your upper body active and engaged.

2) Use your abs and keep them engaged the whole time.  By doing this you're stable and are less likely to fall down.  Lean slightly forward when going up hill, keeping your abs engaged.

3) Take your time and focus on each stride.

4) Breath deeply.  And smile!

And now for the workout:

Beginners--Take it slow and steady, but push yourself through 3 rounds.
Intermediate--Sprint up, jog down.  3 rounds, 3 times. Rest. Repeat the 3 rounds, 3 times.
Advanced--Sprint up, jog down.  5 rounds, 5 times.  Rest for 1-2 minutes.  Repeat the 5 rounds, 3 times.

Any movement against gravity will be effective.  Gravity is your friend in exercise, so use it to your advantage.  If hills are not an option in your location (or the weather just won't cooperate with this plan), you can do the same thing on a treadmill set to an incline.

And most of all....enjoy yourself!!