I know it is said everywhere, but it is the truth! Muscles can create a healthier you. Muscles burn more calories faster than fat does and help to reduce your overall body fat. Fitness is about getting in shape, but for more than appearances; having muscles and reducing body fat, makes everyday life easier because it leads to a stronger and more energized you.
To be generating the most results, means challenging yourself in workouts. Adding weights to any strength and conditioning exercise can help to maximize a workout. It is important to master the original exercise first, and then when you are ready to take your workout to another level, adding weights will help to get you there. Doing dumbbell lunges is a great way to strengthen and improve your core and lower body. Here are a few things to keep in mind for the most effective dumbbell lunge:
- Stand with your feet apart and parallel to your shoulders. Make sure to start standing up straight with the dumbbells by your sides. Your arms and back should remain straight during each lunge.
- Push off your back leg, and extend the other foot out in front of you. Bend your back leg at a 90 degree angle so that your back heel is up, and your knee just touches the ground.
- In one swift motion using your front leg, bring yourself back to the original standing position and repeat with the other leg. Aim for 10 to 12 lunges on each side.
Keep in mind, it is not about using the heaviest weights possible. It is more effective to use a lighter weight and complete the full 10-12 reps correctly, then to struggle and be unable to complete the set because the weights are too heavy. Understand your limits. If you are a beginner, it is okay to start off with a weight that your are comfortable with and then work towards adding more as you progress. It is important to make sure that that you are having a full workout. A key way to get stronger is through core exercises, as a strong core is essential to overall fitness. Like the dumbbell lunges, there are so many great core exercises, such as medicine ball twists. If you do not know the best way to go about achieving your goals, a private fitness coach can help find those exercises and give you fitness tips that will maximize your workout, while understanding and adjusting to your limitations.
