While I love a great weight training session, sometimes you just don’t have the time or access to a fully stocked gym. This is a simple leg workout that you can do anywhere – When you’re on the road for work, taking a vacation, or just can’t get to the gym.
These are basic bodyweight movements that you can adjust as needed – Simply add weights or resistance bands to increase difficulty.
Squats:
Squats are a great movement that work a number of muscle groups – If you have bad knees you can modify the move by not squatting as deeply.
Capri Pants – Nike c/o JD Sports
Fitness Tracker – Misfit Shine {post coming up on this soon!}
Tips for the perfect squat:
- Stand with feet shoulder width apart
- Keep your chest & head up
- Squat as low as your body easily permits
- Repeat for 3 sets of 10
Interested in adding a barbell? Check out Base Body Babe’s Top Squat Tips.
Front Lunge:
Front and walking lunges are a great way to tone your legs – You can easily increase the difficulty by carrying dumbbells or a weighted medicine ball.
Tips for the perfect lunge:
- Stand comfortably with legs hip width apart giving you a good base
- Step forward with one leg, ensuring that your knee doesn’t cross in front of your toes
- Sink your back leg down to hover directly above the ground
- Bring your back leg forward and repeat the movement on the other side
- Repeat for 3 sets of 10 on each leg
Most important thing to keep in mind – If it hurts, don’t do it. If you have sensitive knees don’t go for a full lunge!
Want to add a little cardiovascular work to your lunges? Try jumping lunges!
Side Lunge:
Want to strengthen your inner legs? Moves like lunges and squats are just the ticket. Mix up your lunge workout with some side lunges.
Tips for the perfect side lunge:
- Start in a standing position and bend at the waist as you extend your leg to the side
- Keep your knee in line with your toes
- Push yourself back to a standing position using the extended leg and repeat on the other side
- Repeat for 3 sets of 10 on each side
If you want to brush up on your basics, check out – How To Do Lunges.
{Photos by Mr. Bethanimalprint}
What’s YOUR go-to leg workout?
Thank you to UK-based activewear retailer JD Sports for sponsoring this post. They have a great online selection including all your favorite brands, even the Rita Ora for Adidas line!
After JD Sports reached out, Bethann of Bethanimalprint and I decided to head to Mountain View for an afterhours workout in the park. Be sure to check out Bethanimalprint to see how you can get her killer abs!
Disclaimer: Prior to making any dramatic changes to your fitness routine or diet you should consult a physician.
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