By Lexy Lebsack, Byrdie (TNS)
We all know that squats are a great way to tone your thighs, and crunches target your abs, but how do you pick a group class to get the results you want?
“Every exercise class has its own unique benefits,” celebrity personal trainer Reggie Chambers said. Chambers has suggested a class that would best work the areas you’re most concerned about, from abs to arms.
Trouble zone: legs and butt; Try: spin class
“A spin class works the glutes, the thighs — both inner and outer — and also the calves,” Chambers said. “Do it at least three times a week and you can expect to see results in the first two weeks.” Bonus tip: Chambers suggests keeping your resistance high while standing, which will work your core, too.
Trouble zone: abs; Try: hot yoga
Yoga improves flexibility and strength, especially in your core, Chambers said. (Add heat and you’ll detoxify, too.) Plus it’s great for rehabbing sports injuries and sore muscles. Obviously, check with your doctor first — and don’t forget a non-slip mat.
Trouble zone: abs, arms back; Try: boxing
Boxing works your arms, shoulders, and back, but it also helps your mid-section. “The twisting and turning engages the muscles of your abs that you don’t normally work doing crunches,” Chambers said. “Make sure that you’re actually hitting a bag, it’s the resistance that will give you better results.”
Trouble zone: legs, butt, arms; Try: boot camp
“Boot camp is a total body workout,” Chambers said. “Especially your legs and glutes, since most boot camp classes include lots of squats.” Chambers said you’ll see results within two weeks of starting a bootcamp regime.
Trouble zone: abs; Try: dance class
“Dance works everything from your legs to your shoulders, but especially your abs.” His favorite class? “Zumba is the best workout.”
Trouble zone: upper arms and legs; Try: cardio barre
“Cardio barre classes focus on building your fitness stamina,” Chambers said. “It depends on the class, but you’ll probably be working your upper body and legs the most.”
Trouble zone: abs and thighs; Try: Pilates
Pilates in a great overall body workout — Chambers said it targets your shoulders, arms, core and legs — with the main focus being your midsection and inner and outer thighs. Chambers’ tip for getting faster results? Alternate between floor and machine classes, since they work different muscles.
Trouble zone: legs; Try: running
While not technically a class, Chambers stresses the importance of running if you’re trying to tone your legs. “Try holding two or three pound weights to work your arms, too,” Chambers said.
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