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Stretch It: Quads, Five Ways
I love stretching my legs and especially my quads. It's a must-do move after hiking, cycling, running, stair-stepping, or any other activity that gives your thighs a workout. Thankfully, I've found plenty of ways to stretch my quadricep muscles, and all of them feel great.
You Asked: What to Do For Weak Quads?
You're asking, and I'm answering.
Hi FitSugar,
I am working really hard to lose weight and get in shape for the first time ever. I've been working on this goal all Summer, and I've lost 21 pounds and many inches.
Fit Tip: Runners Should Balance Out Leg Muscles
If you, like me, spend a lot of time running (on the treadmill or outside) then you're definitely giving your hamstrings a nice workout, which is awesome. Keep in mind, though, that it is important to work opposing muscles in order to keep your body alignment and balance in check. This does not mean you need to start running backwards (unless you want to, of course).
Holiday Fit Tip: Don't Just Sit There — Work Those Quads
Since most of us are traveling this Thanksgiving, here are a few simple exercises you can do with your legs while sitting in a plane or car.
- Sit up nice and tall and place your palms on the seat next to your thighs. Plant your left foot firmly on the ground and as you inhale lift your right knee up towards your chest.
Yoga Video: Fierce Sequence
If you love squats, hiking, climbing stairs, and other exercises that make your thighs and buns burn, then this is the sequence for you. It starts with Fierce pose, which you'll recognize from Sun Salutation B, and moves on to some variations that are sure to strengthen your lower body.
Music: "Devata" by Material
Stretch It: Quads
A stretch that's an oldie (but a goodie) is the standing quadriceps stretch. You definitely did it in middle school and you'll always see runners doing it after a run, but here is a refresher to make sure you're getting the most out of your stretch.
Here's how you do it: Stand upright on one foot.
Strike a Yoga Pose: Hero
The days around the 4th of July are usually all about fireworks and BBQs. Some of you are lucky enough to get some time off, so in between hanging out with your friends and family, try to get a few calm moments to yourself. This yoga pose always instills a sense of relaxation throughout my body and is a great stretch for your quads.
Revamp Your Cardio: Move Your Feet
One way your body may be getting bored with your cardio workouts is that you're always working the same muscles over and over again. In order to constantly be challenging yourself, it is a good idea to use different machines. OK, but what if you own an elliptical machine at home?
Strike a Yoga Pose: Warrior 2
You can't go to a yoga class and NOT do this pose. It's called Warrior 2 and it's great for opening tight hips and shoulders and strengthening quads, calves, and shins. It also works your core muscles, because when you're in this pose, you really have to concentrate on elongating your spine and drawing your belly in.It Is Thigh Time: Roll Out
I have had lots of requests for thigh trimming exercises and I know a thing or two about bulky thighs - having speed skater thighs myself. A lot of factors are at play when it comes to body shape. There is genetics - when I look at the legs of all my female relatives and see many "speed skaters."
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