I am a big Jennifer Garner fan. Not only does she seem to be totally down to earth as a mom, she also has been slowly toning up (rather than the usual celeb disappearing act) after having that adorable baby of hers.

Looks like one way Jen gets those lovely arms, other than toting Violet around in her arms all day, is by using the weight machines at the gym. Weight machines, along with any other strength training methods, are a great way to tone up those arms. However, be sure you are getting the most out of it with these tips:

• On machines that have multiple handles—such as the shoulder-press and row machines—alternate your grip between palms facing forward and palms facing each other.
• Be sure you are using enough resistance. The machines tend to allow us to cheat due to their ease of down-shifting the resistance and the conspicuousness of it. Just like with free weights, you want to exhaust the muscles you are working in 10-12 reps.
• Slow it down both ways. People tend to go too fast when bringing the machine to the return position and miss a good portion of their workout. So go slow during the entire movement to work opposing muscles as well as primary muscles.
• Pay attention to proper form to avoid injury. Technique can usually be learned by simply reading the instructions on the machine or by having a trainer tell you how it works. Keep in mind that most of the time you want your knees, elbows, hips at 90 degree angles.
• Been waiting a long time to use that Lat Pull-Down Machine? Ask the person hogging it if you can work in with her. This means that while she is resting in between sets, you do a set and then when you're resting in between sets, she does hers.

For more pics of Jen toning up with weight machines at the gym, read more