Beyond the Basics: 5 Helpful Quad Stretches


Updated 02/16/12 12:24 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

How to Stretch the Quads

After a series of outdoor runs this week, I wasn't prepared for how on fire my quads would feel during today's yoga class. Going through the Warrior poses proved difficult, and by the time we moved into a variation of pigeon pose, I was breathing deeper than ever before. It was a good reminder that even though I always stretch after working out, I don't give enough attention to my quads — a Read more

"Skate" Your Way to Tone Thighs


Updated 01/24/11 12:38 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

An Ice Skating Move to Tone Legs

What do Apolo Anton Ohno and Bonnie Blair have in common? Besides being Olympic speed skating heroes, they both know how to work their legs into tip-top shape. While I wouldn't dream of recreating their entire fitness routine, I have taken a page out of the ice skating training manual. New to my cardio workout is the "skater's lunge," as my fitness instructor dubbed it, and it requires nothing Read more

Small Workout Window? Focus On Big Muscles


Updated 12/22/09 1:30 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Small Workout Window? Focus On Big Muscles

Chances are, if you have time to sneak in a workout over the holidays, you'll have a small window of time in which to do it. So save time by going big — big muscles, that is. One way to make the most of quick holiday workouts is by focusing on the big muscle groups, including your chest, back, glutes, and quads. The bigger the muscle, the more muscle fibers activated, which means you're Read more

Stretch It: Quads, Five Ways


Updated 04/21/09 10:51 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Five Ways to Stretch Your Quadricep Muscles

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. Here are my five favorite ways to stretch my quads. Read more

You Asked: What to Do For Weak Quads?


Updated 08/26/08 12:30 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 9 comments

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. However, I'm trying some forms of exercise for the first time and need a little help. I've heard that using the elliptical machine and spinning class are easier than running; however, I Read more

Fit Tip: Runners Should Balance Out Leg Muscles


Updated 06/20/08 10:58 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

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). Instead, just be sure to work Read more

Holiday Fit Tip: Don't Just Sit There — Work Those Quads


Updated 11/20/07 11:44 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 7 comments

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. As you exhale, slowly lower your foot but don't let it touch the ground. Read more

Yoga Video: Fierce Sequence


Updated 03/13/10 12:01 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 9 comments

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 Read more

Stretch It: Quads


Updated 05/21/09 5:27 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

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. Hold the other foot with the opposite hand (you can use the same side hand or both, but using the Read more

Strike a Yoga Pose: Hero


Updated 05/29/08 5:19 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 8 comments

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. Sanskrit Name: Virasana or Supta Virasana English Read more