This post details four of the best workouts for toning up. It’s not just about cardio and heavy lifting, there are plenty of options to get the sculpt you desire.
We all have different fitness goals, whether it’s losing weight, improving your running, or toning up. If one of your goals is toning up, you’ll need to choose the right exercise classes to support your fitness regime. For a few great options, consider these four neat ideas.
1 . HIIT Training
HIIT training is an acronym for ‘high-intensity interval training’, a popular form of cardiovascular exercise. The workout involves performing intense exercise, in short bursts, followed by a short recovery time. The recovery time involves low-intensity exercise as opposed to stopping altogether.
A typical HIIT workout lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. The repetitions of interval and rest and be between 25 seconds to 3.5 minutes, depending on the workout. HIIT workouts can involve various activities, whether biking, body weight, jump rope, or sprinting.
2. Pilates
Pilates is an exercise class designed to improve flexibility, enhance posture, and strengthen muscles. Pilates movements target your core, meaning this is the perfect class to tone up.
Expect precise and slow moves, combined with breathing techniques. Building up core strength is one of the most important aspects of Pilates. Many people use it to reduce back pain and develop improved stability in the torso.
3. Ballet Barre
Ballet Barre classes have gained much popularity in the last year or so. These classes are a combination of yoga, dance, Pilates, and strength training, performed using a ballet bar. Throughout the class, you will complete a set of different stretches and poses.
All moves are designed to improve core strength and tone the body. Barre classes offer a full-body workout; these exercises are low-impact, so generally suitable for those recovering from an injury.
4. Weight Training
If you’re serious about toning up, weight training is one of the best workouts you can do. Here are a few starting points for achieving a toned physique.
- Single-Arm Dumbbell Lifts: To tone and sculpt your back, have a go at single-arm dumbbell lifts. First, place your left knee on top of a bench, then bend forward slightly, (while putting your left hand on the bench also). Take the dumbbell in your right hand and ensure that your back is straight. Next, pull the dumbbell weight toward your chest, keeping your arm near the side of your body.
- Pull-Ups: To tone your upper body, pull-ups are the way to go. Start by holding the bar, keeping your palms forward, and ensuring that your hands stay wider compared to your shoulders. With straight arms, lean backward (about 30 degrees) and stick your chest forward. You should pull up until the bar touches your chest (while drawing the upper arms downwards and backward).
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