Full body workouts incorporate muscles in your upper and lower body. Simple varieties involve a series of different exercises that together provide a balanced workout. More advanced varieties, such as aerobics classes, are more intense. Health clubs and gyms typically offer a variety of aerobics classes, so choose a class suitable for your fitness level. If you don't have a gym membership, buy a workout video that you can follow along with in your own living room.
Basic Workouts
If you want a simple full body workout you can perform anywhere, mix and match several of your favorite exercises. For example, warm up with jumping jacks. Once your heart rate is up, perform several squats by bending your knees to lower your body, then push upwards to resume a standing position. Next, do some pushups. Lie on your stomach and place your palms shoulder width apart on the floor. Stiffen your body and push up with your arms. Lower yourself and repeat. Add other exercises as necessary.
Swimming
If you have access to a pool, swimming provides a full body workout. The basic crawl stroke incorporates your arm, shoulder, back and leg muscles. Change your swimming style occasionally to vary the intensity and to involve different muscle groups. For example, start off with a crawl stroke, switch to a back stroke and finish with a butterfly stroke. If you don't know many swimming styles, even a simple dog paddle will exercise upper and lower body muscles.
Elliptical Machines
Elliptical machines exercise your whole body. The movements these machines require are so simple you can watch television or read a magazine while you exercise. To use the machine, place your feet on the pedals, select an intensity level for your workout and start pushing. At the same time, grip the handles to incorporate your upper body muscles. Increase the intensity occasionally to challenge your body and increase your fitness gains.
Add to Your Exercise
If you already have a favorite form of exercise, add either upper or lower body muscles to make it a full body workout. For example, if you like to jog, carry hand weights to incorporate your arm and shoulder muscles. Small dumbbells will work, but arm weights that attach securely to your wrists are preferable. Lift your arms high as you run. For those who use stationary bicycles, use dumbbells to add bicep curls and other upper body weightlifting exercises to your workout.
Member Comments