Firm Basics: Abs Buns & Thighs Workout [VHS]
TheFirm Basics: Abs, Buns & Thighs Workouttargets body parts that are coined as "trouble spots" for many exercise enthusiasts. This 45-minute area-specific training session works the abdominals, gluteus, quadriceps, calves, and hamstrings. The series begins with ab crunches and flows with smooth transitions into leg work without a hitch. No time is wasted here as lunges, squats, and abduction (leg lifts that train the outer thighs) are performed. Some lower-body movements are simultaneously done with bicep curls and tricep extensions. These dual movements can create an aerobic training effect (which is a great metabolism boost). Short (two to four minutes) cardio sets, which are spliced between the intensive strength training, help alleviate muscle fatigue while elevating the heart rate. This program should be approachable for beginners and challenging enough for die-hards because students determine their own dumbbell weight (a good starter set of weights for women would be 3, 5, and 8 pounds, and for men 5, 10, and 15 pounds). All participants will need a 14- to 17-inch step and a wooden dowel (a broom will suffice in place of the dowel). These basic exercises are a fantastic foundation for increased strength and muscle tone, but more importantly they are safe and effective.--Olivia Voigts