Tone Legs for Optimal Fitness

Sculpting your legs through strength training isn’t simply to look hot in a pair of shorts (although that is definitely a positive byproduct). The results of this type of exercise also include lower overall body fat percentage, as well as strong muscles that act like cushions around the bones — especially important as we age and bone density decreases.

This past week I took a nasty fall and landed hard on my hip and hand. Though I was immediately convinced I had to have broken something, when I actually assessed my body I surprisingly had only suffered discomfort and bruising. I believe regular strength training played a large role in protecting my bones. Other benefits of strength training your lower body include:

• Increased metabolism and lean muscle tissue. An extra pound of muscle tissue will help burn more calories (and fat) long after you’ve finished your workout.
• Better muscle tone. This means reduced flab and wrinkles. 
• Greater bone density and strength. Osteoporosis stands less of a chance.
• Increased endurance. Weight training provides long-lasting energy to help you get through the day.
• Improved balance. Achieve better coordination to help stabilize your body and minimize the risk of falling. 
• Healthier immune system. Protein is stored in your muscle tissue for the immune system to dip into as necessary, meaning the more you exercise, the more your immune system benefits.

If you can’t get to the gym, try some of these at-home exercises to firm and tone:

·         Lunges

·         Plies

·         Heel raises

·         Squats

·         Lateral raises

A strong, healthy body goes a long way toward building confidence and positive self-esteem. There’s no better time to add strength training to your New Year’s workout routine.  

What is your favorite way to shape up your lower body?

Written by Chris Schmidt, who continues to strive for anti-aging and anti-acne solutions on a shoestring budget, while doing what she can both nutritionally and fitness-wise to maintain her physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.  Find out what she’s rambling about this week at alwaysthewritetime.wordpress.com.